The small scale of the GPGS and the diverse specializations of the faculty enable flexible course selection. Students choose courses and degree options designed to meet their individual interests and to further acquisition of specialized knowledge in their chosen fields.
The master's degrees have two tracks with different requirements. The credit track emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge through coursework and a graduation project. The thesis track cultivates advanced research and analytic skills through the writing of a thesis under the guidance of a faculty mentor.
All master's students enter the GPGS on the credit track. Subsequent entry into the thesis track depends on a student's academic performance, availability of a mentor for the proposed topic, and successful defense of a thesis proposal.
Doctoral students work on their dissertation under the guidance of a supervisor. While no course work is required, candidates participate in workshops and other activities. They may attend courses relevant to their intended dissertation.
English is the language of instruction. The study of Japanese is strongly encouraged. Those with a sufficient level of Japanese language proficiency as determined by a language placement examination may also take courses offered in Japanese.