#Japan #Tokyo #Musashino Art University #Value Creation Program #Creative Thinking

Musashino Art University Launches 5th Value Creation Program

Musashino Art University, located in Koganei City, Tokyo, has announced the commencement of the 5th edition of its innovative Value Creation Program (VCP) for the 2026 academic year. This program emphasizes the development of creative thinking skills through art and design education, equipping students to tackle real-world business challenges.

Since its inception in November 2022, the VCP has gained significant attention for its practical approach, helping participants cultivate the ability to identify problems and view them from new perspectives. In today’s increasingly complex and unpredictable society, honing such skills is more crucial than ever. The university's 90 years of experience in shaping future artists and designers serves as a foundation for this program, which focuses on developing observational abilities, critical thinking, and conceptual skills.

The VCP utilizes a Project-Based Learning (PBL) curriculum, derived from the Creative Leadership Course offered at the university's Graduate School of Art and Design. Participants will engage in an intensive 10-day program that fosters inventive solutions to societal issues and encourages the creation of new business ideas. As participants learn how to generate value through new approaches, they also enhance their execution capabilities and strengthen their ability to connect with others.

Additionally, starting in 2023, the VCP has been recognized by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare as a certified educational training course. This certification entitles eligible participants to a significant refund of up to 40% of their course fees from Hello Work, offering tremendous support for those wishing to expand their skillset.

Key Features of the Value Creation Program

• - Aims to develop creative thinking skills, essential for discovering and resolving business challenges.
• - Participants will earn a certificate upon completion of this program, a key educational asset provided by Musashino Art University.
• - Over ten days (60 hours total), the course covers practical methods for applying creative thinking in business contexts.
• - Unique to art universities, this program teaches techniques drawn from both practical art and design practices, transcending traditional formats.
• - Participants will benefit from mentoring by creative professionals, fostering new ideas and relationships with experts in the field.
• - Emphasis on community building, creating a network that extends beyond the course.
• - Certified by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology's vocational practical skills development program and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.

Program Schedule and Details

Program Dates:

• - December 5, 12 & 20, 2026
• - January 9, 16, & 23, 2027
• - February 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2027
• - March 13, 2027

Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Scheduled for 10 days)
Location: Musashino Art University Ichigaya Campus, 1-4 Ichigayatacho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Tuition Fee: 350,000 yen (including tax)
Eligible participants may receive a 40% refund from Hello Work upon completion, subject to certain conditions.
Application Period: September 7, 2026 - November 6, 2026
Selection Process: Detailed explanations will be provided during an online information session.

Online Information Sessions

Interested individuals are invited to participate in online information sessions via Zoom. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the program, ask questions, and get a comprehensive overview of what the VCP has to offer.
Sessions are scheduled as follows:

• - July 15, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
• - August 28, 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM
• - September 7, 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM
• - September 15, 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM
• - September 29, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
• - October 8, 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM
• - October 19, 12:30 PM - 1:00 PM
• - November 2, 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Additional Resources

The program is featured in a series of introduction videos available on YouTube, highlighting its focus on art education and creative thinking:

• - Art University x Value Creation
• - Art Education x Creative Thinking Skills
• - Third Place x Co-Creation Community

As Musashino Art University approaches its centennial in 2029, it remains dedicated to fostering a new generation of creators equipped to engage with the complex challenges of modern society, making the VCP a timely opportunity for those looking to expand their creative capacities.

For more information, visit the Musashino Art University website.

For inquiries, please contact the Ichigaya Campus Office via email at [email protected].