TSURUMI, Satoshi
Colleges of Technology, or “KOSEN,” are higher education institutions in Japan that accept talented young individuals at the age of 15 upon completing junior high school. They provide a specialized five-year integrated curriculum, fostering highly skilled engineers with advanced expertise. Across the nation, there are 58 Kosen schools, including national (51 of the 58), public, and private institutions, accommodating over 50,000 students in total. Such institutions on this scale and with these characteristics are unparalleled around the world.
One defining feature of KOSEN education is the “wedge-shaped curriculum.” It balances general subjects and specialized ones, gradually increasing the proportion of specialized education beginning in the first year. This helps students acquire technical literacy and a mindset as engineers without undue strain. Another hallmark is the emphasis on “experiments and practical training,” allowing for well-rounded education that balances theory and practice, rather than being excessively focused on knowledge. In addition, National KOSEN schools organize core competency levels in a “Model Core Curriculum,” ensuring uniform academic standards across institutions. Graduates of the main program receive the title of “Associate of Engineering.”
Oyama College was established in 1965 in Oyama City as a national technical college, initially offering programs in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and industrial chemistry. The Department of Architecture was added in 1970, the architecture department was added, followed by the Department of Electronic Control Engineering in 1985, forming a system of five departments. Over time, restructuring led to the current four departments, including the Department of Innovative Electrical & Electronic Engineering. Additionally, the Advanced Course, consisting of three specialized courses, was introduced in 1999, allowing graduates to receive a Bachelor of Engineering degree upon application. Since its founding, the school has upheld the educational philosophy of “Before being engineers, be human.” It has nurtured many exceptional graduates and will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2025.
In today’s rapidly evolving era marked by advancements in generative AI technology, the semiconductor industry boom, and unpredictable global trends, the societal needs for KOSEN education are shifting. To address these changes, Oyama College focuses on three goals: (1) providing solid foundational expertise and skills, (2) cultivating rich human qualities and flexible creativity to foster innovation, and (3) developing global awareness through international exchange activities, including contribution to the local community.
Oyama College desires that its students embrace a spirit of challenge and fulfill their dreams of becoming outstanding engineers with aspirations and hope.