This study examines a cross-disciplinary education model implemented at a Japanese national university, targeting graduate students through Project-Based Learning (PBL). The program emphasizes addressing social issues and exploring diverse career pathways in academia, industry, and government. This presentation outlines the program’s background and design, reviews implementation outcomes over the past 12 years, and evaluates its impact on cultivating interdisciplinary talent within Japan’s higher education context. The program offers original courses, long-term project-based learning opportunities, and both group and independent practical activities. Drawing on expertise from all graduate schools and involving faculty members from diverse fields in both program management and teaching, the curriculum equips students with essential skills in problem identification, problem-solving, and social engagement. It encourages students to play active roles across disciplines beyond their own specialization, fostering innovative thinking and responsiveness to complex societal challenges. Over the past 12 years, more than 170 graduate students－including many from international backgrounds－have participated in the program. Follow-up surveys indicate that most graduates secured employment across a wide variety of fields, often beyond the direct scope of their graduate research. Many alumni have launched unconventional career paths for PhD holders, highlighting the program’s success in enhancing the employability of doctoral graduates and fostering interdisciplinary talents who can adapt to the rapidly evolving demands of society and industry.

Authors:
Xixi Zhang, The University of Osaka, Japan
Natsuki Tsujita, The University of Osaka, Japan
Toshiya Tsujita, The University of Osaka, Japan
Yosuke Otani, The University of Osaka, Japan
Goro Yamazaki, The University of Osaka, Japan

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Xixi Zhang is currently a Specially Appointed Assistant Professor at Cross-Boundary Innovation Program Office, Institute for Transdisciplinary Graduate Degree Programs, The University of Osaka, Japan.

Connect on ResearchGate
https://researchmap.jp/zhangxixi

Additional website of interest
https://rd.iai.osaka-u.ac.jp/en/9edee4447cf34ad3.html

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