This program accepts students who have obtained a master’s degree or the equivalent in various fields. The program encompasses the Department of Global Ecology, the Department of Technology and Ecology, and the Department of Natural Resources of the Hall of Global Environmental Research, as well as the Grove of Universal Learning. Students’ specialized study themes are selected from the vast range of themes related to global environmental studies, based on prior study and approaches in the humanities and social sciences as well as natural science, agriculture and engineering. After receiving a doctoral degree, students may work at universities or environment-related government/private-sector research organizations.

This program aims to foster graduates capable of functioning in an international setting by equipping them with comprehensive knowledge and skills for resolving conflicts and managing global environmental issues. Internship study (domestic or overseas) and the preparation of a doctoral thesis help students develop the skills required for environment-related work after graduation. Graduates of the doctoral program are expected to find employment in government or municipal institutions, environment-related international NGOs and universities, environment-related industries, environmental positions in various industries, and government and private-sector research organizations with an environmental focus.

Students are expected to acquire either advanced composition or advanced conducting techniques by composing works or by conducting, and studying theory. In order to achieve this, students have to do practical and theoretical research in both areas, because these areas are closely related to each other.