Working at KGU, your next career step!

Overview of Kanto Gakuin University

Kanto Gakuin University (KGU), located in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, is a prominent private institution with a rich heritage in higher education. Established in 1884 by Christian missionaries through the Yokohama YMCA as a school for the blind, it has grown into a comprehensive university offering undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines. Today, KGU serves over 20,000 students on its two main campuses: the Kanazawa-Hitachioba Campus and the Mutsuura Campus. The university is particularly renowned for its engineering, business, and international studies programs, making it an attractive destination for academic professionals seeking jobs at Kanto Gakuin University.

Nestled in Yokohama, a bustling port city just south of Tokyo, KGU benefits from its strategic location in the Asia Pacific region. This position facilitates collaborations with industry leaders and international partners, enhancing research and teaching opportunities. Jobs at Kanto Gakuin University span faculty positions, research roles, and administrative positions, appealing to those passionate about education in a dynamic urban setting.

History and Mission of Kanto Gakuin University

The history of Kanto Gakuin University reflects a commitment to Christian values and educational excellence. Founded during Japan's Meiji era, it transitioned from a vocational school to a full university in 1949. Over the decades, KGU has expanded its faculties while maintaining its founding principles of character development, global awareness, and practical skills. The university's motto, 'Probitas et Fides' (Integrity and Faith), guides its community in fostering ethical leaders.

This legacy influences jobs at Kanto Gakuin University, where faculty are expected to contribute to a supportive, value-driven environment. Understanding this history is key for applicants, as it emphasizes holistic education integrating faith, academics, and service.

Academic Departments and Programs

KGU offers diverse programs through faculties like Engineering, Economics, Law, Foreign Languages, Literature, Human Care, Nutrition, and Architecture & Environmental Design. Graduate schools focus on advanced studies in engineering and economics. These departments drive the demand for specialized faculty and researchers.

For example, the Faculty of Engineering emphasizes sustainable technologies, aligning with Japan's push for green innovation. Programs in business administration prepare students for global markets, requiring faculty with international experience. Explore university jobs similar to those here.

Job Opportunities at Kanto Gakuin University

Jobs at Kanto Gakuin University include full-time faculty roles like professors (kyōju), associate professors (junkyōju), assistant professors (joshūkyōshi), and lecturers (kōshi). Research assistants and postdocs support labs, while administrative positions cover HR and student services. Tenure-track positions offer stability after a probationary period of 5-7 years.

Recent openings often target engineering and sciences. For a full list of position types, visit university job types. KGU also posts part-time lecturer jobs, ideal for adjunct professors.

Key Definitions

• Tenure-track position: A probationary academic role leading to permanent employment upon successful review, common in Japanese universities for fostering long-term commitment.
• JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test): A standardized test measuring non-native Japanese proficiency, often required (N1/N2 level) for teaching roles at KGU.
• Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (KAKENHI): Japan's primary funding for academic research, success in securing which boosts faculty applications.

Required Academic Qualifications, Research Focus, Preferred Experience, Skills, and Competencies

To secure jobs at Kanto Gakuin University, candidates typically need a PhD in the relevant field for faculty positions. Research focus should align with departmental strengths, such as robotics in engineering or international economics.

Preferred experience includes 5+ publications in peer-reviewed journals, teaching at university level, and grants like KAKENHI. Skills encompass Japanese/English proficiency, data analysis tools, and grant writing. Competencies like teamwork, mentorship, and innovation are valued in KGU's collaborative culture.

• PhD or equivalent in field (mandatory for professors).
• Publications and conference presentations.
• Teaching portfolio with student evaluations.
• Interdisciplinary research experience.

Administrative roles require bachelor's degrees and experience in higher ed management. See faculty jobs for similar opportunities.

Application Process and Tips

The application process for jobs at Kanto Gakuin University involves submitting documents via their official portal or email. Key materials: CV, cover letter, research plan, teaching philosophy, and three references. Interviews include seminars and panels.

• Review job postings on KGU's website and higher ed jobs platforms.
• Tailor CV to Japanese format (rirekisho).
• Prepare for Japanese interviews; practice seminars.
• Network at conferences like those by Japan Society for the Promotion of Science.
• Follow up politely.

Tip: Highlight contributions to student success. Use resources like free resume template and free cover letter template.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Kanto Gakuin University actively promotes diversity through programs like the Gender Equality Promotion Plan, targeting more women in STEM. International faculty recruitment via English-taught courses and partnerships with universities in Asia Pacific. Scholarships for underrepresented groups and cultural exchange events foster inclusion. In 2023, KGU increased female faculty by 15%.

Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

Work-life balance at KGU benefits from Japan's university norms: standard 40-hour weeks, summer breaks, and sabbaticals. Campuses offer gyms, libraries, and childcare. Yokohama's lifestyle includes beaches, Minato Mirai attractions, and efficient trains to Tokyo. Faculty enjoy clubs like soccer and tea ceremony, enhancing community. Support for mental health and flexible remote options post-COVID.

Campus life is vibrant with festivals (KGU Festival in October) and research symposia, creating a supportive environment for careers.

Research and Innovation at KGU

KGU excels in applied research, with centers for environmental tech and AI. Faculty collaborate on projects funded by MEXT. Recent examples mirror innovations like Waseda University's smart contact lenses or Tsukuba's cycling study. Positions emphasize impactful work addressing societal challenges.

Check research jobs and postdoc advice.

Why Choose Jobs at Kanto Gakuin University?

KGU offers stability, growth, and location perks. Competitive salaries, professional development, and global exposure make it ideal. Learn career strategies via higher ed career advice and explore university jobs.

Ready to apply? Post your profile or search openings at higher ed jobs. Institutions can post a job.