Educational Sociology

The Division has emphasized both theoretical and empirical studies on education and society. Professor Takeuchi has focused on the evolution of Japanese meritocracy and recently studied Japanese and British elite ?schools. Professor Tokuoka has conducted research on changing juvenile justice policies in Japan and the United State. Professor Inagaki has analyzed educational phenomena using qualitative methods. Professor Iwai has conducted quantitative studies of the life course.

A sociologist of education needs to be well-trained in sociology and knowledgeable about education. Graduate students are expected to specialize in one of the following sociological approaches: (1) historical methods; (2) quantitative methods; (3) qualitative methods.

Graduate courses in the Division given by the full-time faculty as well as by part-time lecturers cover a range of research topics in sociology of education such as educational credentialism, education and social class, teaching profession, socialization theory, and family change. Graduate students are also required to attend the advanced research seminar in which they have a chance to present their research results. Undergraduate courses in the department are designed for students to develop a basic familiarity with sociological research.