Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture - Deciphering 'The Type of Student the University Truly Seeks' from the Perspective of a Former Admissions Coordinator

1. Faculty Overview

In 30 seconds...

A Faculty of Agriculture that studies food, life, and the environment to create the future from the region

Fields of Study

At the Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture, students learn a wide range of subjects, from food production to plants, animals, microorganisms, food science, the environment, and life sciences.

Beyond just the techniques for growing crops,

we scientifically explore issues such as:
'Why do they grow?'
'How can we produce safe and delicious food?''How can we protect the natural environment?'

We investigate these challenges scientifically.

Through lectures, experiments, practical training, and fieldwork, students acquire the ability to comprehensively understand life and nature.

Notable Features

The greatest feature is the blessed environment of the Tsuruoka Campus, surrounded by the Shonai Plain and the Sea of Japan.
With vast rice fields, forests, rivers, and the sea nearby, students can learn using the region itself as a teaching material.

Additionally, joint research with the food industry and local governments is thriving, and the opportunity to work on solving regional issues and developing new food and agricultural technologies is a major attraction.
The environment is well-equipped to balance practice and research.

Skills Acquired

By graduation, we aim for students to acquire the following skills:

• The ability to think scientifically about life phenomena

• The ability to conduct experiments, observations, and data analysis

• The ability to identify and solve problems through fieldwork

• Specialized knowledge in food, agriculture, and the environment

• Communication skills to collaborate with local communities and companies

These skills are valued in a wide range of fields, including food manufacturers, chemical and bio-related companies, civil service, and research institutions.
Many students also go on to graduate school to further enhance their expertise.

Checkpoints from a former 'insider'

2. Who is this faculty suitable for?

Overview of who is suitable for this faculty

The Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture is not just for people who 'like agriculture.'
It is suitable for those who have an interest in food, living things, the environment, and life sciences, and who can think scientifically about 'why things happen.'

People who have a desire to learn through experiments and fieldwork and contribute to the region and society will be able to grow significantly.

People who can connect their 'love of eating' to learning

People who are interested in daily 'food' and want to know about the agriculture, food products, nutrition, and safety behind it are suitable for this faculty.
Learning about the systems that support food leads to jobs that support people's lives.

For example, people like this.

• Interested in food, cooking, and agricultural products

• Want to know the reasons behind 'deliciousness' and 'safety'

• Want to work for a food manufacturer or similar in the future

Food is a familiar theme that everyone is involved with.
By developing that interest into science, you can grow into a person who can contribute to society in a wide range of fields, such as food manufacturing, agriculture, and public administration.

People with an inquisitive mind who enjoy asking 'Why?'

Agriculture is not a discipline of memorizing answers, but a discipline of accumulating new discoveries through experiments and observations.
People who enjoy thinking about 'why plants grow' or 'why they get sick' will enjoy research.

For example, people like this.

• Like biology or chemistry experiments

• Enjoyed inquiry-based learning or independent research projects

• Want to look things up yourself when you don't understand something

At university, the ability to think and verify things for yourself becomes more important than anything else.
That attitude becomes a strength in many jobs, not just in research positions, but also in product development and quality control at companies.

Those who want to learn while being active in nature

At the Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture, there are abundant opportunities to learn not only in the classroom but also in actual natural environments such as farms, forests, and rivers.
It is suitable for those who enjoy experiences that cannot be learned just at a desk.

For example, people like this:

• Interested in fieldwork and practical training

• Like nature and living things

• Find the appeal in learning on-site

Knowing the field is a major appeal of studying agriculture.
The experience gained while facing nature will become a great weapon as problem-solving ability even after graduation.

Those who want to be useful to the region and society

At the Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture, learning in collaboration with local agriculture, the food industry, and local governments is well-developed.
It is suitable for those who have a desire to utilize their learning for the region and society.

For example, people like this:

• Interested in regional revitalization

• Want to support local agriculture and food culture

• Interested in SDGs and environmental issues

Agriculture is a discipline that is close to the local community.
The desire to 'be useful to someone' becomes a major driving force for research and work.

Those who want to learn in a team and create new value

In experiments, research, and regional projects, things are rarely completed alone.
The ability to produce results while cooperating with peers, faculty members, and corporate partners is required.

For example, people like this:

• Do not mind group activities

• Can listen to other people's opinions

• Like building something together

Even after entering the workforce, most tasks are carried out in teams.
The collaborative skills you acquire at university will become essential assets in any career path, whether in private companies, civil service, or research institutions.

Conversely, people who might not be a good fit

People with the following mindsets might want to consider a different faculty.

People who have 'no interest in nature or experiments'

In the Faculty of Agriculture, we conduct experiments and practical training involving plants, animals, microorganisms, food, and more.
Therefore, if you have absolutely no interest in these areas of study, you might find it difficult to enjoy your learning.

For example, people like this:

• Those who are not good at experiments or observations

• Those who want to avoid outdoor practical training

• Those who have no interest in biology or chemistry

You do not need prior knowledge upon enrollment, but the desire to 'want to know' is important.
If you have even the slightest interest, you can certainly develop it fully at university.

People who 'only want to find fixed answers'

In agricultural science, there are many issues that do not have a single correct answer.
If you struggle with continuing to think while using trial and error, you may find research and experiments to be a burden.

For example, people like this:

• Those who get frustrated if they don't know the answer immediately

• Those who would rather wait for instructions than think for themselves

• Those who are not good at writing reports or analysis

At university, the 'ability to search for answers' is valued more than the 'ability to memorize answers'.
This is a faculty where those who can challenge themselves without fear of failure can grow the most.

Checkpoints from a former 'insider'

3. Features of Learning

Admissions Policy

The Faculty of Agriculture at Yamagata University seeks students who possess the following qualities:

• Individuals who have acquired fundamental academic skills in subjects such as biology and chemistry

• Individuals who have an interest in food, life, and the environment, and wish to explore them scientifically

• Individuals who wish to contribute to solving regional and social issues

• Individuals who can learn proactively and cooperate with diverse people

• Individuals who want to grow through their studies at the university

In terms of high school students, this means:

I enjoy biology experiments
I researched regional issues during inquiry-based learning
I enjoy home gardening and nature observation
I worked on school festivals and club activities as part of a team

These experiences directly connect to learning at the university.

What the Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture values is not 'farming experience,' but rather curiosity about food and life, and an attitude of continuing to learn on one's own.
That motivation becomes a great strength that supports four years of study.

Curriculum Policy

The Faculty of Agriculture at Yamagata University has a curriculum in place that allows students to learn step-by-step, from basics to specialized fields.

In the first year, students study liberal arts and fundamental subjects such as biology and chemistry, and as they progress through the years, their studies develop into specialized subjects, experiments, practical training, and research.
Another feature is the emphasis on fieldwork and laboratory activities, not just lectures.

Even if you do not have specialized knowledge from high school, the educational system allows you to deepen your understanding step by step, so those who are 'new to agriculture' can start their studies with peace of mind.

Diploma Policy

By graduation, we aim for students to acquire the following skills:

• Specialized knowledge regarding food, life, and the environment

• The ability to conduct experiments, observations, and data analysis

• The ability to identify issues and solve them scientifically

• The ability to collaborate with local communities and businesses

• An ethical perspective and sense of responsibility to contribute to society

These are skills required not only in agriculture but also in various careers, including food manufacturing, biotechnology, environmental industries, public service, and research institutions.
The goal is to enable students to play an active role in society as professionals equipped with both specialized knowledge and practical skills.

Curriculum Features

1st Year
Students learn liberal arts and the foundations of life sciences, chemistry, and more.

2nd Year
Specialized subjects, experiments, and practical training begin in earnest, deepening understanding across a wide range of agricultural fields.

3rd Year
Students conduct more advanced experiments and seminars in their respective specialized fields.

4th Year
Students work on their graduation research.
A key feature is the ability to gain experience in experiments and fieldwork from an early stage, ultimately cultivating the ability to set one's own research topics and conduct research.

PBL and Practical Training

The Faculty of Agriculture at Yamagata University offers extensive fieldwork and practical training set in the Shonai region.

Students can gain experiences that cannot be learned from textbooks alone, such as surveys in rice paddies, forests, and farms, as well as collaborations with local businesses.

Building on the 'inquiry-based learning' from high school, numerous opportunities for practical learning are provided, where students identify issues, conduct investigations, and summarize their findings.

Distinctive Classes

A hallmark of the Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture is its education, which is closely connected to the local community.
Using the rich nature, agriculture, and food industry of the Shonai region as teaching materials, students learn about plants, microorganisms, food, and the environment in a practical way.

Additionally, in laboratories, students can participate in faculty research projects and encounter cutting-edge life sciences, food science, and biotechnology.
By verifying knowledge gained in lectures through experiments and field work, students cultivate not only the 'ability to memorize knowledge' but also the 'ability to create new value.'

This experience becomes a major strength for careers that utilize specialized expertise, such as in food manufacturing, biotechnology, or research positions.

Checkpoints from a Former 'Insider'

4. Research

Main Research Field 1: Food Science and Functional Food Research

Leveraging the rich agricultural products of Yamagata Prefecture, we scientifically research 'safe, delicious, and health-promoting foods'.
A key feature is the broad scope, covering not only the taste and nutrition of food but also its health functions and processing technologies.

Research Examples

• Analysis of functional components in rice and fruits

• Quality improvement of fermented foods

• Development of food preservation technologies

• Processing technologies that lead to food loss reduction

• Product development of local specialties

This research supports 'eating' through science, contributing to people's health and food culture.

Main Research Field 2: Plant Science and Crop Production Research

This research aims to grow crops that are higher-yielding and more resilient to environmental changes.
We aim to realize sustainable agriculture by understanding the mechanisms of plants at the physiological and genetic levels.

Research Examples

• Breeding of rice and soybeans

• Research on plant disease resistance

• Development of crops resilient to climate change

• Analysis of the relationship between soil and plants

• Utilization of smart agriculture technologies

This is a foundational research field that supports future food production.

Main Research Field 3: Microbiology and Biotechnology Research

This research utilizes invisible microorganisms and DNA to create new technologies and products.
It is also a central area of life science research that connects to a wide range of fields, including medicine, food, and the environment.

Research Examples

• Analysis of microorganisms involved in fermentation

• Utilization of useful bacteria and yeast

• Development of gene analysis technology

• Research on plant-microbe symbiosis

• Utilization of biomass resources

Through life sciences, we are creating technologies that will support future industries.

Main Research Field 4: Forest and Environmental Science Research

We research methods to utilize natural environments such as forests, rivers, and ecosystems while protecting them.
A key feature is the abundance of fieldwork that takes advantage of the rich natural environment of the Shonai region.

Research Examples

• Conservation of forest ecosystems

• Evaluation of biodiversity

• Sediment disaster prevention and forest management

• Conservation of water environments

• Sustainable use of regional resources

Research is being conducted to realize a society that coexists with nature.

Main Research Field 5: Regional Agriculture and Resource Circulation Research

This field does not look at agriculture alone, but researches the entire region, including its livelihoods and industries.
Universities, local governments, and companies collaborate to work on solving regional issues.

Research Examples

• Utilization of regional brand agricultural products

• Promotion of local production for local consumption

• Circular agricultural systems

• Regional revitalization projects

• Agricultural management with an awareness of the SDGs

This research involves thinking about the future of agriculture together with the local community and connecting it to social implementation.

Graduation Research Themes

While Yamagata University's Faculty of Agriculture does not publish a list of graduation research themes, it is believed that many students in each laboratory work on themes such as the following:

• Growth and breeding of crops such as rice and soybeans

• Research on plant diseases and pest control

• Analysis of fermented foods and functional food ingredients

• Biotechnology using microorganisms

• Conservation of forest resources and biodiversity

• Relationship between soil/water environments and agriculture

• Joint research with regional agriculture and the food industry

• Research on sustainable agriculture and resource circulation systems

Students can choose themes they are interested in and conduct research over the course of a year under the guidance of faculty members.

Research Only Possible at Yamagata University's Faculty of Agriculture

At Yamagata University's Faculty of Agriculture, you can utilize the Shonai region, one of Japan's leading agricultural areas, as a research field.

With rice paddies, forests, rivers, the Sea of Japan, and food companies nearby, a major feature is 'learning that moves back and forth between practice and research,' where data obtained in the field is analyzed in the laboratory.

Being able to engage in research that is closely connected to the local community is a unique strength of Yamagata University.

Checkpoints from a former 'insider'

5. Student Life

Gender Ratio

The number of students in the 2025 academic year is 704, consisting of 398 men (56.5%) and 306 women (43.5%).

While agricultural studies tend to have a slightly higher number of male students nationwide, the number of female students has been increasing in recent years, and the Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture maintains a relatively balanced gender ratio.

Many female students are also actively involved in experiments, food science, and life science fields.

Hometowns

For students entering in the 2025 academic year, the top regions are:

1. Yamagata Prefecture: 31 students (17.6%)
2. Niigata Prefecture: 23 students (13.1%)
3. Miyagi Prefecture: 17 students (9.7%)
4. Fukushima Prefecture: 13 students (7.4%)
5. Tochigi Prefecture: 12 students (6.8%)

These make up the majority.

Students gather from all over the country, primarily from the Tohoku and Northern Kanto regions, making it a faculty that is 'locally-oriented' while also having a wide reach with many students from outside the prefecture.It can be described as such.

Study Abroad Programs

Yamagata University implements a university-wide exchange study abroad program, allowing students to participate in study abroad programs at partner universities and short-term overseas training.
The Faculty of Agriculture also provides opportunities to learn about overseas agriculture, the environment, and the food industry, allowing students to cultivate an international perspective while experiencing different natural environments and agricultural technologies.

The Faculty of Agriculture is also advancing joint research with overseas universities and research institutions, and some students participate in international joint research after advancing to graduate school.
Food and environmental issues are global challenges, and overseas experience can lead to future success in research and corporate careers.

Partner Universities

Yamagata University has concluded academic exchange agreements with many overseas universities in Asia, Europe, North America, Oceania, and other regions.

Through exchange programs, students can take specialized courses locally and improve their language skills.

In the field of agriculture, it is also appealing to be able to learn about the differences in agriculture, environmental conservation, and food science in each region compared to Japan.

Study Abroad Support

For students wishing to study abroad, the International Exchange Center provides support, including study abroad consultations, introductions to partner universities, and application procedures.

In addition, you may be able to utilize scholarships from the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) or the university's own support systems.

There is also language learning support for students who are anxious about their English proficiency, creating an environment where it is easy to take the first step toward studying abroad.

Regional Collaboration

The Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture conducts numerous educational and research projects in collaboration with local governments, agricultural cooperatives (JA), food manufacturers, and producers in the Shonai region.

Students conduct surveys and practical training in actual farmland, forests, and food factories to take on the challenge of solving regional issues.

The unique appeal of this faculty is that it allows students to cultivate the ability to identify problems, communication skills, and the ability to analyze data and propose solutions—skills that cannot be acquired in the classroom alone.

Checkpoints from a Former 'Insider'

6. Entrance Examination Methods

Selection Methods

The Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Food, Life, and Environmental Sciences) conducts Comprehensive Selection I, School Recommendation Selection I, and General Selection (Early and Late Schedules).

• Comprehensive Selection I
  In addition to submitted documents such as a statement of purpose and a presentation summary, your motivation for learning, inquiry skills, and expressive ability are evaluated through interviews and presentations.

• School Recommendation Selection I
  Academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, short essays, and interviews are evaluated comprehensively.

• General Selection Early Schedule
  Basic academic ability and applied skills are tested through the Common Test for University Admissions and individual academic examinations.

• General Selection Late Schedule
  Selection is based primarily on the Common Test for University Admissions, and no individual academic examination is administered.

Difficulty Level

According to Kawaijuku Kei-Net, the borderline for the General Selection isa Common Test score rate of approximately 56–62% and a deviation score of 42.5but this varies depending on the method.

Among agricultural faculties at regional national universities, it has astandard level of difficultyand it can be said that it is a faculty where examinees who have steadily built up their basic academic skills are likely to pass.
On the other hand, in Comprehensive Selection and School Recommendation Selection, not only academic ability but also inquiry activities and motivation for learning are emphasized.

Importance of Each Subject and Scoring Sources

Mathematics

Importance: ★★★★★
Scoring Source: ★★★★★

• Common Test: Yes

• Individual Academic Examination: Yes (Early Schedule)

Mathematics is highly important as it is necessary for data analysis, biostatistics, and the analysis of experimental results.

Especially for the early schedule, since mathematics can be selected for the individual examination, mastering everything from basics to applications is the shortcut to passing.

English

Importance: ★★★★☆
Scoring Source: ★★★★☆

• Common Test: Yes

• Individual Academic Examination: Yes (Early Schedule)

English is used not only in the Common Test but also when reading international papers and specialized literature after entering university.

It is important to steadily improve your vocabulary and reading comprehension, focusing on long-form reading.

Japanese

Importance: ★★★☆☆
Scoring Source: ★★★☆☆

• Common Test: Yes

• Individual Academic Examination: No

Japanese is only used for the Common Test. For modern Japanese, the ability to accurately read texts, and for classical Japanese and Kanbun, ensuring you have mastered basic knowledge will lead to higher scores.

This subject is also useful for essay preparation for recommendation and comprehensive selection exams.

Science

Importance: ★★★★★
Scoring Source: ★★★★★

• Common Test: Yes

• Individual Academic Examination: Yes (Early Schedule)

In the Faculty of Agriculture, academic ability in science, centered on biology and chemistry, is particularly emphasized.

Since this is directly linked to experiments and research at the university, it is important to learn while understanding not just knowledge, but also principles and phenomena.

Social Studies

Importance: ★★★☆☆
Scoring Potential: ★★★☆☆

• Common Test: Yes

• Individual Academic Examination: No

Social studies is used in the Common Test.
Although it is a subject where score differences are less likely to occur, it can become a stable source of points by reliably mastering the basic concepts.

Geography is deeply related to agriculture and environmental issues, and will also be useful for your studies after enrollment.

Information

Importance: ★★★☆☆
Scoring Potential: ★★★☆☆

• Common Test: Yes

• Individual Academic Examination: No

'Information' is used in the Common Test.
As data analysis, smart agriculture, and AI utilization are advancing in the agricultural field, the basics of information learned in high school will also connect to research at the university.

Make sure to reliably understand the basic concepts.

Checkpoints from a Former 'Insider'

7. Career Path

Status of Advancement and Repeating a Year

The Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture has a curriculum that emphasizes experiments, practical training, and graduation research, but it is not a faculty where it is extremely easy to repeat a year.

However, for laboratory courses, report submission and attendance are emphasized, and since there are many cumulative-type classes, it can become difficult to earn credits if absences or late submissions continue.

Especially in the third and fourth years, laboratory activities become the focus, so planning your studies systematically from day to day and actively communicating with faculty and fellow lab members are key points for graduating in four years.

Advancement to Graduate School

Of the 167 graduates in the 2025 academic year, 40 (approximately 24%) advanced to graduate school.
This is a relatively high advancement rate for a faculty of agriculture, with one in four students moving on to graduate school.

In graduate school, many students pursue more specialized research in fields such as food science, plant science, biotechnology, and environmental science, aiming for research and development or technical positions.

For those aspiring to research positions or roles at major food and chemical manufacturers, advancing to graduate school is often a significant advantage.

Main Employment Destinations

In the 2025 academic year, there were121 employed graduates (approximately 72%), with many students finding employment immediately after graduation.

By industry, the food, beverage, and feed manufacturing sector had the highest number with 28, followed by 39 local government employees, 10 in wholesale, and 6 in the chemical industryamong others.

By occupation, there is also a certain number ofprofessional and technical workersincluding researchers, which is characterized by many career paths where the expertise learned can be utilized.
There is a wealth of employment records in industries where agricultural knowledge can be applied, such as food manufacturers, chemical and bio-related companies, seed companies, government agencies, and JA, allowing for a wide range of career choices centered on 'food,' 'life,' and 'environment.'

Additionally, the path to research and development positions through graduate school is also open.

Prefectures of Employment Destinations

Regarding the overall employment situation of the university, out of 114 employed graduates from the Faculty of Agriculture (graduates as of March 2026),22 were employed within Yamagata Prefecture, and 92 were employed outside the prefectureas of now.

After graduation, many students move on to companies and local governments not only in the Tohoku region but nationwide, including the Kanto and Chubu regions, making employment outside the prefecture the mainstream.

On the other hand, some students find employment in the food industry and administrative agencies in the Shonai region and within Yamagata Prefecture, allowing for career paths that contribute to the local community.

The ability to acquire expertise that can be utilized nationwide is a major appeal of the Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture.

Checkpoints from a Former 'Insider'

8. Tuition and Living Expenses

Tuition

As it is a national university, tuition fees are the same nationwide.

The admission fee is 282,000 yen, and the annual tuition is 535,800 yen (2,143,200 yen over four years), making the total cost from enrollment to graduation approximately 2,425,000 yen yen.

If any revisions are made, the amounts for the year of enrollment will apply.

Additional Expenses

In addition to tuition, costs for textbooks, experimental and practical training supplies, a personal computer, teaching materials, and student education and research accident insurance are required.

Since there is a lot of practical training in the Faculty of Agriculture, there are also opportunities to purchase items such as rubber boots and work clothes.
It is safe to budget around 200,000 to 400,000 yen for the four years.

Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) Scholarships

Yamagata University handles JASSO grant-type scholarships, Type I (interest-free), and Type II (interest-bearing) scholarships.

These can be used if household and academic criteria are met, and many students utilize them.

University-Specific Scholarships and Support Systems

In addition to tuition exemption programs, Yamagata University has established its own scholarships and study support systems.

There is also comprehensive support for emergency financial assistance and information on private and municipal scholarships, ensuring a support system is in place so that students do not have to give up their studies for financial reasons.

Systems to support study abroad and research activities are also available.

Tuition Exemption Program

Yamagata University complies with the new higher education study support system, and if conditions are met, you can receive a full or partial exemption from tuition and admission fees.

It can also be used in conjunction with JASSO grant-type scholarships, allowing you to receive support tailored to your household's financial situation.

Apartment Market Rates

Around the Tsuruoka Campus (Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture), where the Faculty of Agriculture is located, there are many apartments for students.

The market rent for a studio or 1K apartment is around 35,000 to 55,000 yen, making it a region where rent is relatively easy to keep down.

There are many supermarkets and restaurants, and there are plenty of properties within cycling distance, so you can live your student life while keeping living expenses low.

Cost Simulation Until Graduation

[Living with Parents]

• Tuition: Approx. 2.43 million yen

• Textbooks, practical training fees, etc.: Approx. 300,000 yen

• Commuting, lunch expenses, etc.: Approx. 800,000 yen

Total: Approx. 3.5 million yen

[Living Alone]

• Tuition: Approx. 2.43 million yen

• Textbooks, practical training fees, etc.: Approx. 300,000 yen

• Rent (45,000 yen x 48 months): Approx. 2.16 million yen

• Food, utilities, and living expenses: Approx. 3.2 million yen

Total: Approx. 8.1 million yen

* Living expenses vary significantly depending on housing and lifestyle.

A Message to Parents from a Former 'Insider'

9. Support After Enrollment

Remedial Education

At Yamagata University, we have enhanced our first-year education and basic education subjects so that students can proceed to specialized subjects immediately after enrollment.

In the Faculty of Agriculture, the curriculum is structured to allow students to learn specialized fields step-by-step while reviewing basics such as biology, chemistry, and mathematics, so students who felt they were 'a bit weak in science in high school' can rest assured.

Education that builds from the basics supports a smooth transition to specialized subjects.

Learning Support

Small-group experiments, practical training, and laboratory-based education are hallmarks of the Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture. The environment is designed to be accessible, with close proximity to faculty members, making it easy to consult on coursework and research.

In the fourth year, students join a laboratory and conduct their graduation research under the individual guidance of a faculty member.

A major appeal is the ability to acquire the skills to think independently, plan research systematically, and develop strong communication abilities.

Qualifications Available

While the Faculty of Agriculture is not a department specifically aimed at obtaining qualifications, students can aim to earn a Type 1 High School Teacher's License (Agriculture/Science) by completing the prescribed courses.

Additionally, the curriculum includes studies that lead to qualifications useful in the food and agricultural sectors, such as Food Sanitation Supervisor and Food Sanitation Inspector (appointment qualifications). The ability to choose a teacher training course according to one's career path is also an attractive feature.

Qualification Acquisition Support

The teacher training course provides guidance on course selection and support for teaching practice. Furthermore, the Career Support Center holds various seminars and guidance sessions for students aiming for employment in the public sector or private companies.

The environment is set up not only for acquiring qualifications but also for cultivating the ability to apply specialized knowledge in society and to think about future career paths.

Career and Employment Support

At Yamagata University, the Career Support Center leads initiatives such as employment guidance, company information sessions, internship support, resume and entry sheet review, and interview practice.

The Faculty of Agriculture also provides information tailored to career paths that utilize specialized expertise, such as food manufacturers, agriculture-related companies, and public service, supporting career development from an early stage.

ICT and Library Support

Students can use the campus network and Learning Management System (LMS) to view course materials and submit assignments online.

Additionally, the university library provides access to specialized books and electronic journals related to agriculture, life sciences, and environmental sciences, providing strong support for graduation research and report writing.

Independent learning utilizing the ICT environment is possible.

Student Counseling and Life Support

Yamagata University has established a Student Counseling Office and a Health Service Center, where students can consult not only on academic matters but also on health, mental health, and general student life.

Furthermore, a support system tailored to each individual is in place, including scholarship consultations for financial concerns and academic support for students with disabilities.

Efforts are underway to create an environment where students can enjoy their university life with peace of mind.

Student Dormitories

Yamagata University has student dormitories, and students can apply for residence if they meet the requirements.

Housing costs can sometimes be lower than in private apartments, which helps reduce the financial burden for students starting to live on their own.

Additionally, because students can interact with peers from other faculties, a unique benefit of the dormitories is the ease of expanding one's social circle.

Other Student Support Systems

In the Faculty of Agriculture, educational and research activities in collaboration with the local community are actively conducted.

Through joint projects with local companies and municipalities, farm training, and fieldwork, there are abundant opportunities to engage with society while still a student.

It is an environment where you can naturally acquire not only specialized knowledge but also practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills.

Checkpoints from a Former 'Insider'

10. How would you describe this faculty in one phrase?

A faculty that studies food, life, and the environment to cultivate the future.

The Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture is not a 'faculty for learning agriculture,' but a faculty that supports 'food, life, and the environment' through the power of science.

Set in the Shonai region, one of Japan's leading agricultural and natural environments, students learn practically through experiments, training, and fieldwork.

Because you can study a wide range of fields such as food science, life science, plant science, and environmental science, it leads to diverse career paths including food manufacturers, biotech companies, civil servants, and researchers.

The greatest appeal of this faculty is the ability to develop your 'interests' into 'inquiry,' and your 'inquiry' into 'social contribution.'

Who is this faculty suited for?

High school students like the following will likely spend a fulfilling four years at the Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture.

• People who are interested in eating and food.
  Perfect for those who want to support 'delicious' and 'safe' through science.

• Those who like biology or chemistry
  - You can learn deeply about the mechanisms of life through experiments and research.

• Those who are interested in nature and the environment
  - You can learn by engaging with real nature, using the Shonai region as your field.

• Those who enjoy inquiry activities and experiments
  - You can develop the 'Why?' questions you cultivated in high school into research at the university level.

• Those who want to be useful to their community and society
  - You can take on the challenge of solving regional and global issues through agriculture, food, and the environment.

If you feel that even one of these applies to you, the Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture is well worth aiming for.
Since you can learn specialized knowledge at the university, what you need now is the desire to 'know'.

What I want to convey as a former 'insider'

Looking at the admissions policy of the Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture, what they value most iscuriosity about food, life, and the environment and a proactive attitude toward learning.

You are not required to have agricultural experience or specialized knowledge.
In your high school life, in addition to acquiring basic academic skills in subjects like biology and chemistry, gaining experience in 'thinking for yourself, researching, and presenting' through inquiry-based learning, project research, and regional activities will connect to your studies at the university.

At the university, you will acquire the ability to identify and solve problems through lectures, as well as experiments, fieldwork, and graduation research.
Beyond that, there are paths to becoming a researcher by advancing to graduate school, or careers in food manufacturers, bio-related companies, environment-related companies, as a public servant, at JA, or at research institutions.

This is a faculty where the feeling of 'I like eating' or 'I like nature' becomes the first step toward a professional career that supports society.

How would I describe this faculty in one phrase?

A faculty that studies food, life, and the environment to cultivate the future

That curiosity will surely become a power that supports the society of the future.
Please learn in the best field that is Shonai and find your own unique research theme.

Why not take the first step toward creating the future of food, life, and the environment at the Yamagata University Faculty of Agriculture?

11. Reference Article Links

[National] Yamagata University

• Faculty of Literature and Social Sciences

  • Introduction

  • Preparation

• Faculty of Education

  • Introduction

  • Preparation

• Faculty of Science

  • Introduction

  • Preparation

• Faculty of Engineering

  • Introduction

  • Preparation

• Faculty of Agriculture

  • Introduction

  • Preparation

• School of Medicine

  • Introduction

  • Preparation

• School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine

  • Introduction (2026.7.25)

  • Preparation

• School of Social Co-creation and Digital Studies

  • Introduction

  • Preparation

[Agriculture] Agriculture and Fisheries

• Kagoshima University Faculty of Agriculture (2026.7.16)

• Kagoshima University Faculty of Fisheries (2026.7.16)