Shaping the Future of Learning
About ZEN University
ZEN University is a fully online undergraduate university based in Japan. We are committed to breaking down barriers such as income and location that often limit access to higher education. Our platform ensures that students with a desire to learn can achieve their educational goals anytime, anywhere. By prioritizing accessibility and flexibility, we aim to create equal opportunities for all learners.
ZEN University
- Campus location
- Zushi City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Annual tuition
- 380,000 JPY
- Initial year admission
capacity - 3,500 students (Total capacity: 14,000)
- Opening
- April 2025
- A single faculty
- Faculty of Social Informatics
The Meaning of “ZEN”
- 全：wholeness
- 然：nature
- 善：virtue
Our Educational Philosophy
To harness the power of online education to create accessible and diverse learning
opportunities for a global student body.
Our Core Mission
To cultivate competent individuals equipped to thrive in our increasingly complex and rapidly changing world.
Our Three Pillars
of Education
• Democratizing Higher Education
• Personalizing the Learning Journey
• Thriving in the Digital Age
Accessible and Affordable Higher Education
Affordable Tuition Fee
We offer to make higher education accessible to everyone.
No Traditional Entrance Exams
We offer quality education without the constraints of traditional entrance exams.
Online Courses
Our on-demand courses offer flexibility, allowing students to learn anytime, anywhere.
Diverse Courses
Our curriculum enables students have the flexibility to tailor their education to their personal interests and needs.
Personalized Learning Paths
We cater to diverse learners with personalized learning paths.
MESSAGE
Masato Wakayama
President
Shinichi Yamanaka
Chairman
Fernando M. Reimers
Harvard University Professor
A partnership between The Nippon Foundation and DWANGO
ZEN University is a unique online university created through a partnership between The Nippon Foundation, a nonprofit philanthropic organization known for its strong track record in supporting youth, and DWANGO Co., Ltd. DWANGO, which founded N/S High School— the largest high schools in Japan by enrollment, to combine their expertise in launching ZEN University.
Focuses on social innovation and real-
world experiences
Establishing safe spaces for children at 200 locations across Japan
Supports agricultural education in African countries
Founded N High School Groups, the largest
high schools in Japan by enrollment
Educates over 30,000 students at its online high schools
Provides exceptional learning experiences both online and in-person
