Chemistry
We are surrounded by all kinds of matter, with a wide range of chemical phenomena always occurring. Through clarification and understanding of the properties of matter and chemical phenomena on atomic and molecular levels, through creation of new matter and discovery of unknown functionality, the study of chemistry contributes to the development of human society while maintaining a harmonious coexistence with the natural environment. It is also the foundation that supports the important 21st Century issues of nanotechnology and bioscience. The Department of Chemistry aims to foster talented individuals who can focus on the basics of chemistry while responding flexibly to new issues as they arise.
Our education catchphrase in this department is "chemistry of thought and experiment." We devote a lot of time to experiment and practical training, and master the fundamental experimental techniques through basic experiments from first year to third year. Fourth-year students are allocated to laboratories researching their areas of interest, and through individual instruction from teaching staff, they compete with graduate school students and their fellow students while carrying out cutting-edge research of chemistry. This way, they learn methods of research for tracking down and independently solving problems.
Messages from Current and Graduate Students
Shoko Furuhashi
(Fourth-Year Student, 2006, Accepted to Graduate School Master's Program)
Shinshu University is surrounded by an abundance of nature, and is an ideal environment for study. The student population comes from all over Japan so there are ample opportunities to meet many new and interesting people. Student numbers are restricted in the Department of Chemistry, but this only deepens the ties between students of various years. My friends from university have been a great asset to me. Especially in the research laboratories, we feel closer to our teachers, and our seniors also offer us instruction. Independence is highly valued at university, which enables us to be more responsible for our own work. Our days are so busy with study, clubs and part-time work that if we are not careful, a new school year could start before we know it. The first step to avoid that and make our time at university as worthwhile as possible is to set goals and work diligently towards achieving them. Having said that though, it is also really important to enjoy the unique opportunities that come with life as a university student.
Kazuhiro Kitahara
(Graduate School Master's Program, 2007)
I had lots of good friends from all over Japan when I was at Shinshu University. They all come here because of the beautiful nature surrounding the university and because it is a fantastic place for study and for having fun. Apart from the study, students are occasionally anxious about living away from home, or have difficulty with club activities or part-time jobs, but being able to handle those issues by themselves is an important life experience as well. I was interested in science from a young age and since coming to study at Shinshu University, I have learned a lot of different things about chemistry. Of course, there is still a lot to learn so I have to devote myself to my studies. Our days are full with the many experiments we can carry out after joining the research laboratory. I am often disappointed because my experiments do not go well, but my seniors in the laboratory are always willing to offer advice and my teachers are always sympathetic in their instruction. The Department of Chemistry also has many different events to enjoy, including cherry-blossom viewing parties and softball tournaments. I highly recommend Shinshu University as a great environment to enjoy your student life.
