3S
NEWS & EVENTS
2026.10.13
- Education and Research
- School of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Others
- Public Liaison Department
press release
The number of degree holders at the University of London has reached a record high of 24!! —School of Liberal Arts and Sciences Parallel Degree Program (PDP)
Since 2015, Musashi University has offered a parallel degree program (PDP) between the University of London and Musashi University. This year, 24 students—22 from the 8th cohort and 2 from the 7th cohort—obtained degrees from the University of London, setting a new record. Additionally, one of the 8th cohort was awarded First Class Honours※, achieving outstanding results.
PDP is the first international program introduced by our university in Japan, allowing students to pursue a degree from the University of London while attending Musashi University. With the establishment of the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences in 2022, students who entered as first-term undergraduates will be the first Alumni this academic year.
Furthermore, from the 2027 academic year, a new Business Data Science (BDS) major will be established, increasing the enrollment capacity by 20 students. With the establishment of the new major, we will further advance learning and continue to work on nurturing talent who can thrive in the global society through high-quality education.
* First Class Honours: Successful applicant are classified based on exam scores into First Class, Second Class (Upper Division), Second Class (Lower Division), Third Class, and Unclassfied. First Class Honours are the highest grades.
PDP is the first international program introduced by our university in Japan, allowing students to pursue a degree from the University of London while attending Musashi University. With the establishment of the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences in 2022, students who entered as first-term undergraduates will be the first Alumni this academic year.
Furthermore, from the 2027 academic year, a new Business Data Science (BDS) major will be established, increasing the enrollment capacity by 20 students. With the establishment of the new major, we will further advance learning and continue to work on nurturing talent who can thrive in the global society through high-quality education.
* First Class Honours: Successful applicant are classified based on exam scores into First Class, Second Class (Upper Division), Second Class (Lower Division), Third Class, and Unclassfied. First Class Honours are the highest grades.
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Trends in Degree Holders -
September 2026 Graduation Ceremony
School of Liberal Arts and Sciences Message from Professor Yui Suzuki President
In the 2026 academic year, 24 students, including one from First Class Honours, have obtained degrees from the University of London. This is a far greater number of degree holders than previous achievements, and we are grateful for the students' efforts. Of the 24 students, 22 are School of Liberal Arts and Sciences First cohort (8th PDP cohort) majoring in Business Administration (EM). At the time of enrollment (April 2022), 50 students in the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences EM major had 50 students. Among them, 34 improved their English skills through classes and training, achieved an IELTSTM overall score of 5.5 or higher within six months, and began studying for the PDP in September of their first year. This means about half of the enrolled students, and over 60% of those who started the PDP, have obtained their degrees. PDP, led by the prestigious London School of Economics (LSE), is a demanding program, but with continued effort, the path to a degree is open. Going forward, PDP will expand its academic fields to include economics, management, data science, and international relations, and we look forward to your challenges.
* From April 2027, the major will be renamed to Economics, Business Administration, and International Relations (EMIR).
Business Data Science (BDS) Major (to be offered in 2027)
* From April 2027, the major will be renamed to Economics, Business Administration, and International Relations (EMIR).
Business Data Science (BDS) Major (to be offered in 2027)
<PDP 8th Cohort> Voices of University of London Degree Holders
Future options expand through degree earning and top honors
I studied economics in English through high school, and at university, I was attracted to the fact that I could pursue a further specialized study while also aiming for a degree from the University of London, which led me to enter Musashi University.
When earning my degree from the University of London, I initially struggled to balance my studies and personal life, but as I continued my studies while searching for a balance that suited me, I was able to complete the First Class Honours, which is my top grade.
To deepen my understanding until I am satisfied, I study without hesitation, but for some subjects, I focus on efficiency and try to devise study methods. By continuing my studies through trial and error, I was able to complete my degree, which gives me a great sense of accomplishment. Furthermore, after graduation and entering society, I also considered pursuing graduate school as needed, which helped broaden my future options.
When earning my degree from the University of London, I initially struggled to balance my studies and personal life, but as I continued my studies while searching for a balance that suited me, I was able to complete the First Class Honours, which is my top grade.
To deepen my understanding until I am satisfied, I study without hesitation, but for some subjects, I focus on efficiency and try to devise study methods. By continuing my studies through trial and error, I was able to complete my degree, which gives me a great sense of accomplishment. Furthermore, after graduation and entering society, I also considered pursuing graduate school as needed, which helped broaden my future options.
Choosing the Parallel Degree Program After Choosing Overseas University
Based on my high school study abroad experience, I considered attending a university overseas, but I was attracted to the fact that I could learn economics in English while still in Japan, develop logical thinking and data analysis skills, and decided to enroll in PDP.
Obtaining a University of London degree does not necessarily require high language skills or abilities from the start. Rather, I believe it is important to continue learning little by little every day and to keep learning consistently. In continuing daily learning, the ability to keep going at my own pace and the support of teachers and peers were very important. When I missed passing an exam in a subject, I consulted with a teacher and received one-on-one instruction, and when I felt anxious or uncertain about my studies or future path, my peers supported me.
Obtaining a degree from an overseas university is often seen as a high hurdle and a lonely challenge, but at Musashi University, there are always faculty members who are willing to consult and colleagues to work hard with, providing an environment where you can make the most of your abilities. Please value your own pace and enjoy learning while taking on challenges.
Obtaining a University of London degree does not necessarily require high language skills or abilities from the start. Rather, I believe it is important to continue learning little by little every day and to keep learning consistently. In continuing daily learning, the ability to keep going at my own pace and the support of teachers and peers were very important. When I missed passing an exam in a subject, I consulted with a teacher and received one-on-one instruction, and when I felt anxious or uncertain about my studies or future path, my peers supported me.
Obtaining a degree from an overseas university is often seen as a high hurdle and a lonely challenge, but at Musashi University, there are always faculty members who are willing to consult and colleagues to work hard with, providing an environment where you can make the most of your abilities. Please value your own pace and enjoy learning while taking on challenges.