#Japan #Tokyo #Education Program #Waseda University #Public Policy College

Certification of Waseda Public Policy College

Waseda University’s Continuing Education Promotion Office, known as Waseda Neo, has announced that its certification program titled "Waseda Public Policy College: Learning Policy Formation Practice from Theory and Practice" has been recognized as a designated course under Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare's Education and Training Benefits System. Starting from April 2026, the second session of this comprehensive program aims to empower individuals in policy formation and planning by providing financial support covering up to 50% of tuition fees for eligible participants.

This program, with a total of 102 hours of coursework, emphasizes the essential skills required for policy formation and planning. It incorporates both academic knowledge and practical experience, fostering a broad understanding of public policy through lectures from industry leaders and active group work. Participants will engage with tangible challenges faced by local governments to develop real-world solutions, effectively improving their policy-making skills.

The inaugural session commenced in April 2025, gathering a diverse group of participants, including municipal employees and business professionals collaborating with public sectors. The program not only enhances learning through lectures but also fosters discussions among participants on various themes, promoting a deeper understanding of different organizational cultures and decision-making processes in public and private domains.

In preparation for the upcoming second session, modifications have been made to the curriculum based on feedback from first-session participants to address practical applications more effectively.

Program Details

• - Session Dates: April 11, 2026 to August 1, 2026
• - Format: Primarily in-person at Waseda University Nihonbashi Campus (5F, Coredo Nihonbashi)
• - Tuition Fee: 434,500 yen (including tax)
• - Capacity: Approximately 40 participants
• - Application Deadline: March 26, 2026, 23:59
• - Target Audience: Individuals associated with local governments, private enterprises or NGOs collaborating with municipalities, and local council members.

The course is led by Professor Hiroaki Inatsugi from Waseda University’s Graduate School of Political Science and Economics, providing an expert-led framework that bridges theory and practice in public policy.

To encourage active learning, the curriculum encourages creative engagement rather than passive consumption. Particularly in Project-Based Learning (PBL) subjects, groups work together over the semester to analyze a specific municipality's current status and collaboratively devise policy proposals, culminating in presentations evaluated by instructors.

Moreover, group activities are supported by educators with practical experience within municipal settings, ensuring that participants receive specialized guidance throughout the program.

Understanding Certificate Programs

Certificate programs have been designed as a way to promote Waseda University’s social contribution by actively accepting adult learners. These programs are structured to be more accessible than degree courses, allowing for efficient skill acquisition in a shorter period. Graduates receive a certificate that can be included in their educational background on resumes.

Application Process

Participants can apply through the Waseda Neo website by filling out the required information.
Application Link
Please note that registration as a WASEDA NEO member is required for application. Organizations or businesses can apply and also pay through invoice options.
It is the responsibility of the applicants to verify and complete any necessary procedures related to the education benefits system.
For inquiries about potential group enrollments from municipalities or companies, we welcome you to reach out directly for consultation.

Waseda Neo

Established in July 2017, Waseda Neo serves as one of the centers for recurrent education and reskilling at Waseda University, providing a vibrant venue for business professionals to learn and engage. With excellent accessibility directly connected to Nihonbashi Station, Waseda Neo offers seminars covering cutting-edge business topics and programs aimed at skill development.