The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree will be conferred upon practitioners who possess specialized knowledge in the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of policies addressing global risks. As an interdisciplinary Program that transcends traditional academic boundaries, it is particularly suited for students who have acquired both academic expertise and practical experience.
An advanced professional education program designed to foster leaders of the international community, empowered with the expertise and skills to address global risk
The Global Risk Program, part of the Interfaculty Initiative in Planetary Health, is an advanced specialized education initiative that cultivates policy-capable experts and future leaders in the international community to address global risks. It is a three-year educational program conducted in English and limited to five participants. The entrance date is in October and the course follows the quarter system.
The Global Risk Program within the Planetary Health Studies Program aims to cultivate global risk leaders equipped with strong policy-making capabilities and professional insight to design and implement strategies and systems for addressing complex global risks that threaten human survival - such as nuclear conflict, environmental degradation, and pandemics.
Upon completion of the Program, participants are expected to apply the knowledge, skills, experience, and networks acquired to address a wide range of global challenges. We anticipate that they will take on leadership roles in transforming policies, strategies, and Programs related to global risks across diverse institutions—including government ministries and agencies, local governments, medical facilities, hospitals, international organisations, aid agencies, NGOs, foundations, universities, research institutes, think tanks, and corporations.
The curriculum is designed to enable students to systematically acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for planning, implementing, and evaluating global risk policies.
Specifically, the course aims to help students (1) understand planetary health; (2) acquire the necessary insight and analytical skills to formulate, implement, and evaluate global policies; (3) acquire leadership and management skills; and (4) be able to propose and implement projects related to global risk policies.
Students take specialised courses for the first year and a half and prepare for and implement the Project till the end of the third year. Learning outcomes are evaluated through the number of credits earned, qualification examination results, and doctoral review assessment.
What degree will I earn upon completing the Global Risk Program?
For example, do you have the following thoughts?
- I recognize the complexity of addressing the diverse risks that pervade modern society, including financial market panics, nuclear reactor meltdowns, Arctic sea ice melting, and pandemic outbreaks.
- I want to fill the gaps between science, policy, and practice surrounding complex global risks.
- I want to strengthen my capacity to design and implement policies, strategies, and Programs that account for complex global risks, thereby contributing to the enhancement of public safety and health.
- I am interested in a career as a practicing professional rather than as a researcher or scholar.
- I want to exercise high-level leadership and serve as a catalyst for change in the field of global risk.
The Global Risk Program is designed for individuals seeking to advance their careers as highly specialized professionals in the field of global risk. Hosted by the Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Global Risk within the Interfaculty Initiative in Planetary Health, the Program recognizes that addressing complex global risk challenges requires bridging gaps between science, policy, practice, and evaluation. We welcome applicants who are aware of these disconnects and are eager to refine their ability to translate scientific knowledge into strategic actions that drive meaningful change.
The Global Risk Program welcomes individuals with a strong drive and clear vision to contribute to the development and implementation of global policies addressing complex risks that may impact human health. We encourage applicants from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds, including fields such as environmental destruction, peacebuilding, and international cooperation. A degree in global risk or medicine is not required.
Why choose the Global Risk Program?
The Global Risk program has the following features
Interdisciplinary:
Global issues are difficult to solve within a singular academic discipline.
The Global Risk Program is founded on the concept of planetary health—a framework that encompasses human health and seeks to achieve a healthy and sustainable coexistence between humanity and the Earth through an integrated interdisciplinary (transdisciplinary) approach. Organized across the entire university, the Program transcends traditional academic boundaries, bringing together experts in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, data science, and medicine. This enables students to benefit from a truly interdisciplinary education.Global:
Global issues are difficult to solve within a singular academic discipline.
Global financial capital markets and economic fluctuations, the expansion of environmental destruction across the planet, the nuclear accident resulting from the Great East Japan Earthquake, the COVID-19 pandemic, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine are all critical risk-domain issues that pose existential threats not only to humanity, but to all life on Earth. These global challenges demand a perspective that extends beyond the borders of a single nation—Japan included.
The Global Risk Program places a strong emphasis on global thinking and a global orientation. With a vision of improving the health risks faced by people around the world as well as the planet itself, the Program enables students to study and conduct research on global challenges, diverse national case studies, and other countries.Leadership:
To avoid global risks such as nuclear proliferation, radiological disasters, international conflicts, abnormal weather, and ecosystem collapse, there is an urgent need for leaders who can actually solve these challenges.
The Global Risk Program is an advanced professional education program designed to cultivate leaders who drive societal transformation toward a world where everyone can live in good physical and mental health. In addition to learning skills related to leadership and management, participants can practice these skills through exercises and other activities.
Upon completion of the program, we expect our graduates to serve as high-level leaders in ministries, local governments, medical institutions, hospitals, international organisations, aid agencies, NGOs, foundations, universities, research institutes, think tanks, corporations, and so on in their respective countries.Policy:
Thus far, universities have focused on building scientific evidence.
The Global Risk Program aims to go further—helping students learn how to connect scientific evidence with policy, examine the gaps between policy and practice, and ultimately improve people's lives and health.
The Global Risk Program, like the Nagasaki DrPH Program launched in the 2022 academic year, offers policy advocacy proposal training that has not been available in graduate education to date.Practice:
Various global challenges must be overcome through practical action.
The Global Risk Program emphasizes practical learning and is structured to enable students to systematically acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation in the field of global risks. A variety of teachers and instructors with diverse experience in practice will participate in the program.History:
Nagasaki University is the only medical university in the world with a history of experiencing an atomic bombing. In addition to its ongoing efforts in peace education and nuclear weapons abolition research, the university has accumulated decades of expertise in tropical medicine and practical education in global health. Furthermore, it integrates insights from the humanities and social sciences to enable a multifaceted approach to addressing societal challenges.
As affiliated facilities, Nagasaki University houses the Institute of Tropical Medicine, the Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, and the National Research Center for the Control and Prevention of Infectious Diseases(CCPID). Additionally, we operates international research hubs in countries such as Vietnam, the Philippines, and Kenya as bases for research projects.Diversity:
Diversity makes for better policies and organisations.
The Global Risk program comprises faculty and staff from diverse graduate schools, external experts, nationalities, and professions. Their work experience is diverse, including service in various governments, healthcare organisations, hospitals, international organisations, aid agencies, NGOs, foundations, universities, research institutes, and corporations.
The campus is home to students from all over the world, allowing for exposure to and learning about new ideas, values, cultures, policies, organisations, and ways of working.
Over the years, Nagasaki University has established a global network with organisations such as the Japanese government, JICA, WHO, IAEA, Japan Institute for Health Security, the University of Tokyo, and the University of London. The Global Risk program is designed to build on the education and research that has emerged from this longstanding collaboration, thus allowing participants to deepen their learning while meeting a diverse range of institutions and people.
Opportunities for hands-on exercises such as Practicum and Project enable students to acquire practical skills.
What are Planetary Health, Global Health, and Global Risk disciplines?
The following is the positioning of our Interfaculty Initiative.
- Planetary Health: A concept that encompasses human health and a new academic field that promotes healthy and sustainable coexistence between humans and the Earth.
- Global Health: A discipline that focuses on public health issues that need to be understood and addressed at the global level.
- Global Risk: An academic field that focuses on complex risk issues requiring understanding and responses at a global level.
Career paths on completion of the Global Risk Program
Graduates of the Global Risk Program are expected to become transformative leaders in addressing complex global-scale risk challenges. Equipped with the knowledge and skills acquired through the program’s curriculum, the graduates are likely to work in central government ministries, international organizations, global partnership institutions, non-governmental organizations, private foundations, universities, research institutes, think tanks, and corporations. Regardless of their workplace, their role is to implement effective policies, programs, and projects that tackle global issues and contribute to improving the health of both people and the planet.
The Global Risk Program of the Planetary Health Research Centre at Nagasaki University promotes interdisciplinary research on global risks that could affect the survival of humanity, such as the risk of nuclear use, global environmental destruction, and pandemics. The program aims to train global risk leaders with strong professionalism and high policy capacity who can contribute to proposals for human health and related global issues.
The Global Risk Program systematically organises its educational curriculum so that students can develop the necessary competencies and acquire the knowledge and skills required for global risk policy planning, implementation, and evaluation. All classes are offered in English, thus providing an optimal environment for the development of global human resources. A diverse cross-organisational faculty enables students to acquire a broad range of knowledge and expertise that goes beyond the traditional framework of specialised education.
The Global Risk Program curriculum consists of specialised courses and practicum. Specialised courses are taught in small-group lectures, and students acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to become global risk leaders along with a focus on planetary health through discussions with faculty members. In the practicum, students have the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills gained in the specialised courses to real-world situations. Students can improve their ability to bridge research, policy, and practice by actually working to solve real-world global risk problems and summarising their experiences in a doctoral project thesis.
Curriculum Policy
Acquire the knowledge and skills required for global risk policy formulation, plan implementation, and evaluation.
- An overview of planetary health
- (1) Knowledge of the relationship between human health, civilization, and the global natural environment
- (2) Understand planetary health implications for policy in general related to global risks
- Acquire the insight and analytical skills required for planning, implementing, and evaluating global risk policy
- (1) Theoretical understanding of policy processes and implementation science
- (2) Ability to analyze global risks and make recommendations
- (3) Understand data analysis methods used in policy making and evaluation
- Acquire leadership and management abilities
- (1) Organizational management skills
- (2) Negotiation and communication skills
- (3) Knowledge of global governance
- Project Exercise
- (1) Ability to propose and implement global risk-policy-related projects
- (2) Ability to write a doctoral dissertation (policy proposal)
The level of achievement will be assessed through reports, written examinations, the quality of articles, presentations, and discussions.
List of Courses
| Course type | Subject group | Subject name |
| In-class | Planetary Health | Introduction to Planetary Health |
| Global Risk Ⅰ | ||
| Global Risk Ⅱ-a | ||
| Global Risk Ⅱ-b | ||
| Policies and systems | Theories on Policy Processes | |
| Implementation Science | ||
| Data and analysis | Quantitative Methods of Policy Evaluation | |
| Leadership and management | Organizational Management | |
| Relationship Management | ||
| Global Governance | ||
| Practice | Practicum | |
| Project | ||
Curriculum Map
| 1Q | 2Q | Spring adjustment period | 3Q | 4Q | Summer adjustment period | |
| Oct-Dec | Jan-Feb | Mar | Apr–May | Jun–Aug | Sep | |
| Year 1 | Introduction to Planetary Health (2 credits) |
Global Risk Ⅱ (1 credits) |
Practicum (2 credits) |
|||
| Global Risk Ⅰ (1 credits) |
||||||
| Organizational Management (1 credits) |
Relationship Management (1 credits) |
Implementation Science (1 credits) |
Theories on Policy Processes (1 credits) |
|||
| Year 2 | Global Governance (1 credits) |
Quantitative Methods of Policy Evaluation (2 credits) |
Qualifying Writing Exam | Project Proposal Preparation | Project (4 credits) |
|
| Qualifying Oral Exam | ||||||
| Year 3 | Project (4 credits) |
Dissertation Review | ||||
| Final Oral Exam | ||||||
note: The above curriculum map is subject to change in the future.
Subject group
- Planetary Health
- Policies and systems
- Leadership and management
- Data and snalysis
- Practice
Subject Overview
１.In-class
Subject groupPlanetary Health
Subject name: Introduction to Planetary Health, Global Risk Ⅰ, Global Risk Ⅱ-a, Global Risk Ⅱ-b
In Introduction to Planetary health (2 credits), instructors from a range of academic fields, including sociology, economics, political science, engineering, environmental studies, and anthropology, will conduct classes on an alternate basis to provide a broad understanding of planetary health. Human health and the Earth’s environment are closely linked, and it is becoming increasingly important to understand how human activities are changing the Earth’s environment, how those changes are in turn impacting human health, and what kind of policy is required to adapt to these changes and minimize health hazards. In this course, students will learn basic concepts of a comprehensive approach through planetary health and explore their application to global risk policy and programs to adapt to various existing and future issues. They will acquire competency in interdisciplinary comprehension and discussion concerning planetary health and cultivate an aptitude for formulating multisectoral programs that promote sustainable health and development.
Global Risk I (1 credit) critically explores the philosophical knowledge that provides the theoretical basis for complex risks, drawing on concepts and insights from various social science fields. The course aims to foster a deep understanding of the conceptual knowledge essential for complex risk research.
Global Risk II-a (1 credit) covers radiation medicine, social medicine, and nuclear risk—fields that represent the strengths and distinctive features of our university. Through a dialogue-based format, the course explores current issues and challenges from a global risk perspective, grounded in scientific knowledge.
Global Risk II-b (1 credit) invites students to engage in in-depth discussions on specific global risk-related topics. By analyzing diverse case studies, students will examine how global risks are interconnected and how their convergence may lead to compound crises. The course is designed to equip students with the skills to develop effective policy recommendations applicable across both domestic and international contexts.
Subject groupPolicies and systems
Subject name: Theories on Policy Processes, Implementation Science
This section comprises two courses and is designed to equip students with key conceptual frameworks in policy and systems relevant to global risk, while cultivating the practical skills necessary for their application.
In Theories on Policy Processes (1 credit), students will gain keen insight into policy processes and cycles and develop the ability to explain the reasons behind policy changes. In this course, they will also apply major theories and findings from the field of global risk policy studies to understand the process by which health policies are made and the factors that influence this process. At the same time, the course will deepen their understanding of the methodology of causal inference upon which case studies are based and improve their skills for a deeper understanding of the scientific findings that policy research has accumulated.
Implementation Science (1 credit) centres on policy implementation and aims to foster understanding of its major concepts and issues, as well as their solutions. This course is grounded in the newly emerging academic field of implementation science. It aims to develop students’ ability to assess the implementation of policies addressing global risks by examining the complexity and interconnectivity of related systems, their relationships with fields such as politics and economics, and their dependence on specific contexts. Specifically, students will develop the ability to identify discrepancies between policy objectives and anticipated outcomes, and to formulate and implement appropriate countermeasures. They will also gain the knowledge and skills to understand the policy environment and its contextual factors, and to assess policy implementation as an ongoing process. Furthermore, they will acquire the capacity to design, execute, and evaluate innovative approaches to risk mitigation.
Subject groupData and analysis
Subject name: Quantitative Methods of Policy Evaluation
In Quantitative Methods of Policy Evaluation (2 credits), students will gain an understanding of the analytical methods used in policy planning and evaluation. To encourage policy decisions based on scientific evidence, a certain level of understanding of the analytical methods and the data used to generate evidence is vital. This course will provide an overview of the mathematical techniques used to identify population-level health issues, assess and compare policy proposals, and evaluate existing policy. Specifically, the course will address the analytical approaches of meta-analysis, big data analytics, risk assessment, modelling, and prediction of intervention effects. It will clarify how data is collected, analysed, and utilised in policy-making in each approach and students will learn the knowledge required to become global risk leaders.
Subject groupLeadership and management
Subject name: Organizational Management, Relationship Management, Global Governance
This section comprises three courses and is designed to equip students with skills related to organizational management and negotiation.
In Organizational Management (1 credit), students will acquire knowledge, techniques, and skills related to organizational management and strategy development. The course aims to improve knowledge, techniques, and skills concerning basic theory and practice related to organizational management, business strategy, financial management, team management, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
In Relationship Management (1 credit), students will acquire knowledge, techniques, and skills related to negotiation and public relations of an organization or a program. This course will deepen the understanding of basic theories of negotiation, the actual practice of international and inter-organizational negotiations, methods of preparing a variety of documents, and public communication, and cultivate skills that can be used in practice.
Global Governance (1 credit) aims to critically examine existing theories and institutional frameworks of international organizations in response to global risks underlying crises that occur on a planetary scale. Students will gain a multifaceted understanding of the current situation and challenges, and explore appropriate forms of governance that promote the global public good both globally and locally. The course also provides a systematic understanding of institutional design for international and domestic risk management, with the goal of equipping students with the ability to propose effective policies within the international community.
2.Exercise Course
Subject name: Practicum
In Practicum (2 credits), students will utilise their first-year summer term to perform short-term in-service training at an international organization, government agency, NGO, or private business. As a professional specialising in global risk, they will personally identify an issue faced by their partner organization, which can be solved in a short period of time. Students will then apply what they have learned in their first-year specialised courses to solve the problem and show a certain level of success within a limited amount of time. Through this experience, they will hone their skills in problem settings, coordination, negotiation, and communication. Students are expected to utilise their in-service training experience to set the theme and location of the Project Exercise carried out in the second and third years.
Subject name: Project
Project Practicum (4 credits) is the core component of this curriculum, providing a setting where students apply their learning outcomes in practice and gain experiential knowledge. While it corresponds to research supervision in a typical doctoral program, its content and evaluation methods are unique in light of the objectives of the Global Risk Program.
In this course, starting from the latter half of the second year through the third year, students will be affiliated with international organizations, government agencies, NGOs, or private companies to undertake long-term fellowships or similar practical training. As professionals in the field of global risk, they will engage in tasks such as strategic planning at the host institution. Through this experience, they will strengthen their skills in coordination and negotiation, as well as their ability to propose and implement policies and programs related to global risk.
Furthermore, as an intellectual output of the project, students must write a dissertation and submit it to both the graduate school and the host institution. It should be noted that the Global Risk Project differs from a typical internship. Simply serving an apprenticeship at the host institution is insufficient; students are expected to make intellectual contributions in response to the needs of the host organization.
＜Period of implementation＞
- The Project will begin in the fourth quarter of the second year (June) or later on a date agreed upon with the host institution.
- Students must pass the Qualifying Oral Exam (QOE) on the Project proposal by the start date.
- In principle, the project period should be at least 10 months, which may include the period for writing project deliverables.
- Projects must be completed by the third quarter of the third year unless the period of study has been extended.
＜Host organization and theme＞
- The host organization for the Project must be clearly defined within the project.
- It is acceptable to work with the organization with which the student was affiliated prior to enrolment, but it is not acceptable for the student to simply extend the work that the student was engaged in prior to enrolment.
- As a supplement, it is not necessary to decide on the host institution before admission.
- The theme of the project should be related to global risk, and it should be able to influence the policies and strategies of the host organization.
- As a general rule, the student will be responsible for identifying the host organization and negotiating the terms of acceptance. Students may seek advice from research advisers as appropriate.
- The relationship between the host organization and the student is assumed to take various forms, such as the case where the student becomes an employee of the host organization or the case where the host organization entrusts the work to the student as an external consultant.
- In either case, the form of acceptance will be determined based on mutual agreement between the student and host institution, and the two parties will conclude an agreement as needed.
- As a side note, our university generally do not provide salaries or allowances to students.
＜Doctoral thesis＞
- Students will write a doctoral thesis as the final product of the project and submit this to the host organization and dean of the Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Global Risk.
- The format and content of the doctoral thesis will vary depending on the nature of each Project, but as a general rule, the main audience will be the host organization, and the basic elements of the thesis will be to promote the policies, strategies, and practices of that organization and recommendations for improving those aspects.
- This doctoral thesis does not need to take the form of an original research article. It is a document that utilises and synthesizes existing scientific knowledge, identifies and analyses global risk policy issues, proposes solutions, and summarises the lessons learned when implementing solutions.
3.Learning environment
Self-study room
Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Nagasaki University Library
Nagasaki University Central Library (Bunkyo Campus)：Study, reading, etc. available. Open 8:30-21:45* on weekdays during normal term, 10:00-20:00* on weekends and public holidays, closed during summer and year-end and New Year holidays.
Nagasaki University Medical Library (Sakamoto Campus)：Study, reading, etc. available. Open 8:30-22:00 on weekdays during normal term, 10:00-20:00 on weekends and public holidays, closed during summer and year-end and New Year holidays.
Nagasaki university Economics Library (Katafuchi Campus)：Study, reading, etc. available. Open 8:30-21:45* on weekdays during normal term, 12:00-18:00* on weekends and public holidays, closed during summer and year-end and New Year holidays.
(*Opening hours are subject to change)
Electronic journals.
Around 24,300 titles are available.
Email address, Wifi
Each student is given an address. On-campus Wifi is available.
Bunkyo Campus (Nagasaki University)
Sakamoto Campus (Nagasaki University)
Katafuchi Campus (Nagasaki University)
How long do I need to stay in Nagasaki?
The Global Risk program is a three-year doctoral program designed for working professionals. The degree conferred is a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). As the program combines both practical and theoretical components, please consult your supervisor regarding the duration of your stay in Nagasaki.
For more information, see the “Curriculum”.
| Name | Official title | Research theme | Faculties & Schools | researchmap | Detail |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yuji Morikawa | Professor | International politics, International relations | Graduate School of Global Humanities and Social Sciences |  |
 |
| Michiru Nishida | Professor | International Security, Nuclear deterrence and arms control, Nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation | Graduate School of Global Humanities and Social Sciences | |
|
| Naomi Hosoda | Professor | Cultural Anthropology, Southeast Asian Studies, International Labor Migration | Graduate School of Global Humanities and Social Sciences | |
|
| Fumihiko Yoshida | Professor | Nuclear Disarmament and Non-proliferation, U.S. Nuclear Policy, International Relations, Global Security Studies | Graduate School of Global Humanities and Social Sciences | |
|
| Masayo Shikimi | Professor | Banking, Corporate Finance, Sustainable Finance | Graduate School of Economics | |
|
| Kana Miwa | Professor | Development Economics | Graduate School of Economics | |
|
| Takashi Kudo | Professor | Radiology and Nuclear Medicine | Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (Atomic Bomb Disease Institute) | |
|
| Noboru Takamura | Professor | Radiation Medical Sciences, Hygiene, Endocrinology, Internal Medicine | Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (Atomic Bomb Disease Institute) | |
|
| Masahiro Nakashima | Professor | Human pathology, Radiation pathology, Thyroid pathology | Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (Atomic Bomb Disease Institute) | |
|
| Naomi Hayashida | Professor | Medicine, Healthcare, Thyroid | Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (Atomic Bomb Disease Institute) | |
|
| Sumi Yokoyama | Professor | Radiation Biology and Protection | Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (Atomic Bomb Disease Institute) | |
|
| Koh-ichiro Yoshiura | Professor | Medical biochemistry, Human Genetics, Molecular Genetics | Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (Atomic Bomb Disease Institute) | |
|
| Arinori Kawamura | Associate Professor | Criminal Law, International Criminal Law, New fields of Law | Graduate School of Global Humanities and Social Sciences | |
|
| Gülbeyaz Abdurrahman | Associate Professor | Linguistics, Sociology, History of thought | Graduate School of Global Humanities and Social Sciences | |
|
| Compel Radomir | Associate Professor | Political Science, Policy Studies, Modern Japanese Politics and Foreign Policy | Graduate School of Global Humanities and Social Sciences | |
|
| Yasuaki Sato | Associate Professor | Anthropology, African Area Studies | Graduate School of Global Humanities and Social Sciences | |
|
| Hiroyuki Kuwahata | Associate Professor | Economics, International trade | Graduate School of Economics | |
|
| Koki Tamura | Assistant Professor | Ethics | Graduate School of Global Humanities and Social Sciences | |
|
| Yuki Terada | Assistant Professor | Social theory, Sociology of globalization | Graduate School of Global Humanities and Social Sciences | |
|
Admission Information
Admission Policy
The Global Risk Program seeks students who meet the academic standards and criteria outlined below:
1. Those who possess basic knowledge and skills in the related fields*¹ as well as logical thinking which is necessary to develop academic and practical abilities.
2. Those who display leadership qualities and cooperativeness, possess communication skills to solve problems, and have a willingness to contribute to the resolution of compounded global risk issues.
3. Those with a passion and a clear vision for advancing the development and execution of policies that address compounded global risks.
*1: The “related fields” include a wide range of fields such as environmental studies, social development, peacebuilding, international cooperation, public policy, organizational management, healthcare and health sciences.
Prerequisites for Application
Applicants are, in principle, required to have at least three years work experience*¹ in a related field*² as well as fulfill the requirements described in the application guidance.
*1: Applicants from both government and private sectors are welcome. Work experience in both domestic and overseas settings are acceptable. For instance, applicants with experience in nuclear non-proliferation at think tanks or central government agencies, as well as those with a background in radiation and disaster risk management at private companies (e.g., electric power companies), are desirable. In principle, internships and volunteer experience are not considered as work experience, but will be considered separately. Also, applicants with less than three years of work experience in a related field*² are not excluded from applying.
*2: The “related fields” include a wide range of fields such as environmental studies, social development, peacebuilding, international cooperation, public policy, organizational management, healthcare and health sciences.
English Language Requirements
- For candidates whose first language is not English, the standard requirement is CEFR B2 level (IELTS 5.5, TOEFL iBT 72, Duolingo English Test 100).
- Applicants who do not meet the standard requirements may still qualify.
- Please check the application guidance to ensure that your test result has not expired prior to submission.
Duration
3 years.
※The Global Risk program is a three-year doctoral program designed for working professionals. The degree conferred is a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). As the program combines both practical and theoretical components, please consult your supervisor regarding the duration of your stay in Nagasaki.
※During the Global Risk Project period, which begins in the second half of the second year, students can work part-time at the host institution or work and study flexibly according to their personal circumstances. Please note that, while the host institution can be the place of employment prior to enrolment, students are not permitted to simply continue the content of their work prior to enrolment as the Project.
Enrolment period
Beginning of October
Intake Quota
Five Students
Selection Method
Selection for admission is based on a comprehensive evaluation of the applicant’s performance in the interview, foreign language examinations, and document review. In the interview, based on the submitted documents, candidates will be asked questions and answers about their interest and motivation to carry out their academic duties and their specific future career plans, focusing on the Personal Statement and Research Proposal. For the Foreign Language Test, the applicant will be evaluated on his/her English proficiency (CEFR B2 level or higher) necessary to take courses and receive research guidance in English. In addition, students with acquired language skills will be evaluated separately.
Entrance examination schedule
| Application guidelines | To be published around late January (refer to the application guidance for details) |
|---|---|
| Screening of application qualifications | Screening of application qualifications or at least three years' work experience in a relevant field (if desired) (Deadline around mid-March) |
| Application | Submission of prescribed application documents (around early to mid-April) |
| Examination | Examination of application documents and interview (around mid- to-late May) |
Application guidance and all application forms will be available around late January 2026.
Application Guidance for 2026 Admission
| Application Guidance for 2026 Admission |
|---|
Application Forms
Application Forms (Please use the following forms) In principle, please do not handwrite the Application Form, Personal Statement & Research Proposal and Research Achievement, but type them in MS Word.
| Application Form [Form1] | |
|---|---|
| Photo Card/ Admission Slip[Form2.3] | |
| Personal Statement & Research Proposal [Form4] | |
| Certificate of Employment [Form5] | |
| Research Achievement [Form6] | |
| Application for Preliminary Screening [Form7] | |
| Request Form for Disclosure of the Entrance Examination Results [Form 8] |
Fee (application fees, enrolment fees and tuition fees)
| Application fee | 30,000 yen |
|---|---|
| Admission fee | 282,000 yen |
| Tuition fee | 535,800 yen/year (tuition fees are subject to change) |
Amounts as of 1 December 2025.
For information on how to pay tuition fees, see here.
https://www.nagasaki-u.ac.jp/ja/campuslife/fee/index.html
Financial support (tuition fee waiver, scholarships, etc.)
Nagasaki University's own entrance fee and tuition fee waiver system.
For details, see here.
https://www.nagasaki-u.ac.jp/ja/campuslife/support/free/free/graduate/index.html
Major scholarships, research grants, etc.
＜Interfaculty Initiative’s own research grants＞
- Interfaculty Initiative in Planetary Health Stipend
Objective The Nagasaki University Graduate School Interfaculty Initiative in Planetary Health aims to nurture human resources who can contribute to the realisation of planetary health (where the coexistence of human society, the Earth, and various ecosystems is a major issue) through interdisciplinary education and research. In the Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Global Risk (hereafter, ‘Global Risk Program’), we will foster professionals who can bridge science, policy, and practice related to complex risks in the modern global world, which is one of the core of planetary health. To achieve this objective, the program will provide research grants to students enrolled in the Global Risk Program to ease their financial burden and enable them to devote themselves to their studies and research. Subjects Interfaculty Initiative in Planetary Health (DrPH Program, Global Risk Program) students
（The number of recruits is determined on an annual basis.）Form Benefit type (not based on household standards) Grant amount 150,000 yen per person per month Benefit period Within the standard term of study (however, there is a continuing review every year) Other Recipients are required to apply for JSPS Fellowships (DC), other equivalent scholarships, and so on.
＜Nagasaki University Financial Support Program＞
- Nagasaki University Special Research Scholar
Organization: Nagasaki University
Stipend: 50,000 yen/month, 100,000 yen per month (for final year students who are particularly outstanding)
Category: benefit type
Target group: Doctoral students
Note: Subject to screening - Nagasaki University Planetary Health Research Scholarship
Organization: Nagasaki University
Stipend: 50,000 yen/month, 150,000 yen/month (for those who become research scholarship students in AY2026 or AY2027 and are particularly outstanding)
Category: benefit type
Target group: Postgraduate students
Note: Subject to screening
Scholarships and other scholarships within Nagasaki University will be announced individually to eligible applicants when they become available.
＜Scholarships from private foundations and local authorities＞
For more information, see here.
https://www.nagasaki-u.ac.jp/ja/campuslife/support/free/private/index.html
Some scholarships are not offered by universities but directly by other organisations, so please gather information on your own.
＜Japan Student Services Organisation (JASSO) Scholarships＞
The Japan Student Services Organisation (JASSO) provides scholarships for students of outstanding character and academic achievement who have difficulty in studying due to financial reasons.
For more information, see here.
https://www.nagasaki-u.ac.jp/ja/campuslife/support/free/ikueikai/index.html
For other financial aid information on Nagasaki University, please see here.
https://www.nagasaki-u.ac.jp/ja/campuslife/support/
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Global Risk Program Application
What degree will I earn upon completing the Global Risk Program?
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree will be conferred upon practitioners who possess specialized knowledge in the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of policies addressing global risks. As an interdisciplinary Program that transcends traditional academic boundaries, it is particularly suited for students who have acquired both academic expertise and practical experience.
Who should apply to the Global Risk Program?
The Global Risk Program is designed for individuals who wish to advance their careers as highly skilled professionals in the field of global risks. The Interdisciplinary Graduate school of Global risk at the Interfaculty Initiative in Planetary Health believes that addressing increasingly complex global risks requires bridging the gaps between science, policy, practice, and evaluation. We seek applicants who recognize these gaps and are eager to develop the ability to translate scientific knowledge into strategic actions that drive transformative change.
The Global Risk Program welcomes individuals who are strongly motivated and have a clear vision to advance the development and implementation of policies addressing complex global risks that may affect human health. We particularly encourage applicants with diverse academic backgrounds and professional experience in areas such as environmental degradation, peacebuilding, and international cooperation. A degree in global risk or medicine is not required.
If you have the following thoughts, you should apply.
- I am aware of how difficult it is to solve the various risks that pervade modern society—such as nuclear weapons use, financial market panics, nuclear reactor meltdowns, Arctic sea ice melting, and the outbreak of pandemics.
- I aim to utilize policies, strategies, systems, and organizations that take global risks into account in order to improve people’s safety and health.
- I am more interested in pursuing a career as a global risk practitioner or leader than as a researcher or academic in the field of global risks.
- I am prepared to take on high-level leadership responsibilities as professionals in the field of global risk.
In the “Overview”, “For example, do you have the following thoughts?” for more information.
What are the features of the Global Risk Program?
In the “Overview”, “Why choose the Global Risk Program?” for more information.
What are the career paths after completion of the Global Risk program?
Graduates of the Global Risk Program are expected to become transformative leaders in the field of complex global risks. Equipped with the knowledge and skills acquired through the program’s curriculum, they are likely to work in central government ministries, international organizations, global partnership institutions, NGOs, private foundations, universities, research institutes, think tanks, and corporations. Regardless of where they work, their role is to implement effective policies, programs, and projects that address global challenges and contribute to improving the health of both people and the planet.
In the “Overview”, “Career paths on completion of the Global Risk Program” for more information.
Is there a maximum capacity for the Global Risk program?
The Global Risk program accepts five students each year.
Numbers are limited in order to provide an educational and research environment of the highest standard.
See the number of applicants in the “Admission Information”.
What are the application requirements for the Global Risk program?
See the “Application Guidance”.
With regard to degrees, can I apply even if I do not have a master’s degree in global risk management?
Applicants holding a master’s degree, an equivalent qualification, or a higher degree are eligible to apply, regardless of their field of study.
See the “Application Guidance”.
What is the relevant field of ‘work experience in a relevant field’?
Relevant fields include a wide range of areas such as natural environment, social development, peacebuilding, international cooperation, public policy, organizational management, healthcare, and health sciences. Applicants from both government and private sectors are considered, and work experience either domestically or internationally is welcome. For example, this may include roles related to nuclear non-proliferation in foreign think tanks or central government agencies, or experience in radiation and disaster risk management in private companies such as electric power firms
See the “Admission Information”.
Does work experience in a relevant field include internships or volunteering?
In principle, internships and volunteer experience are not considered as work experience, but will be considered separately.
Also, applicants with less than three years of work experience in a related field*² are not excluded from applying.
See the “Admission Information”.
What exactly does ‘Possess the English language skills required for coursework and project implementation’ mean?
- For candidates whose first language is not English, the standard requirement is CEFR B2 level (IELTS 5.5, TOEFL iBT 72, Duolingo English Test 100).
- Applicants who do not meet the standard criteria are not necessarily excluded from applying.
See the “Admission Information”.
What is the duration?
Duration: 3 years.
Enrolment period: Beginning of October
See the “Admission Information”.
When is the enrolment period? Can I choose when to enroll?
The Global Risk program starts at the beginning of October each year.
Students in the Global Risk Program are required to complete specialized coursework before proceeding to the Global Risk Program Project. The schedule for these specialized courses is fixed, and students must begin their studies from the program’s official start date in early October.
See the “Admission Information”.
What is the selection method?
Selection for admission is determined after a comprehensive evaluation of the applicant’s performance in the interview, foreign language examinations, and document review.
- During the interview, candidates will be asked about their interest and motivation for academic work and their specific future career plans, based on the submitted documents, with special focus on the Personal Statement and Research Proposal.
- Students will be evaluated on their English proficiency, which is necessary for course enrolment and research guidance.
- Any additional language skills acquired outside the standard requirements will be assessed independently.
For more information, see the “Application Guidance”. and “Admission Information”.
Do I need to decide on a supervisor before applying?
Yes, you must select a research supervisor and obtain their preliminary approval before submitting your application documents.
It is possible to contact teachers before applying.
Do I need to submit a research proposal with my application?
It is necessary.
For more information on the research proposal, see the Project description and “18. List of Supervisors & Main Research Themes” in the application guidance.
Do I need to decide on a host organisation for the project before enrolment?
It is not necessary. After enrolment, students plan independently and teachers provide advice and support.
Curriculum courses: see the “Project”.
When are the application deadlines and admissions examinations?
The application deadline is in the middle of April and the admissions examination is scheduled for the middle of May.
For more information, see the “Application Guidance”.
How long do I need to stay in Nagasaki?
The Global Risk program is a three-year doctoral program designed for working professionals. The degree conferred is a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). As the program combines both practical and theoretical components, please consult your supervisor regarding the duration of your stay in Nagasaki.
For more information, see the “Curriculum”.
What is the name of the degree awarded on completion?
[ Degrees to be awarded ] Doctor of Philosophy
Curriculum
What is the curriculum like?
For more information, see the “Curriculum”.
What is the Project about?
Curriculum courses: see the Project.
What is the relationship between the host organisation and the students in the Project?
The relationship between the host organization and the student is assumed to take various forms, such as the case where the student becomes an employee of the host organization or the case where the host organization entrusts the work to the student as an external consultant. Please note that the university does not pay salaries or allowances to students.
Curriculum courses: see the Project.
Can I set the host organisation for my project to the organisation I was part of prior to enrolment?
It is acceptable to work with the organization with which the student was affiliated prior to enrolment, but it is not acceptable for the student to simply extend the work that the student was engaged in prior to enrolment.
Curriculum courses: see the Project.
What are the characteristics of the doctoral thesis of the Global Risk program?
Doctoral dissertations in the Global Risk Program do not necessarily need to be original research articles. Instead, they may be structured as documents that systematically apply and integrate existing scientific knowledge to identify and analyze policy issues related to global risks, propose solutions, and, where applicable, summarize lessons learned from the implementation of those solutions.
Curriculum courses: see the Project.
What are Planetary Health, Global Health, and Global Risk disciplines?
The following is the positioning of our Interfaculty Initiative.
- Planetary Health: A concept that encompasses human health and a new academic field that promotes healthy and sustainable coexistence between humans and the Earth.
- Global Health: A discipline that focuses on public health issues that need to be understood and addressed at the global level.
- Global Risk: An academic field that focuses on complex risk issues requiring understanding and responses at a global level.
What is the Interfaculty Initiative?
This is an internal organisation that encompasses the degree programs in Planetary Health education. (scheduled to be established in October, 2026) To contribute to planetary health, which is the goal of Nagasaki University, we envision a ‘circle of learning’ and ‘circle of university and society’—that is, we aim to connect various fields to global issues and develop education and research. This ‘Interfaculty Initiative’ is also used at other universities by organisations that provide interdisciplinary education.
Tuition, and Financial Aid
How much are the tuition fees?
See the “Fee & Funding”.
Is financial aid available?
See the “Fee & Funding”.
What are the costs of tuition fees and living expenses?
According to the results of the JASSO’s survey on student life in 2022, the average expenditure on tuition fees and living expenses for a postgraduate doctoral course (boarding house, flat, other) is approximately 2.29 million yen.
Are dormitories available?
There are no dormitories for Japanese, but there are dormitories exclusively for international students.
For more information, see the website of the Nagasaki University Center for Japanese Language and Student Exchange.
Consultation ・ Inquiries
Can I visit the campus?
Possible. Please contact us using the contact form.
Can I make an enquiry?
Possible. Please contact us using the contact form.