Complete Guide: 5 Pathways to MIDS at Musashino University | Find Your Optimal Route
The Musashino University International Data Science (MIDS) program, launching in April 2026, offers five course completion models designed for students from diverse backgrounds. From high school students to working professionals, we present the optimal learning pathway tailored to your individual circumstances.
Figure 1. The Musashino University International Data Science (MIDS) program, launching in April 2026, offers five course completion models designed for students from diverse backgrounds. From high school students to working professionals, we present the optimal learning pathway tailored to your individual circumstances.
Which Type Are You? Options by Student Category
At MIDS, the models available to you differ based on your situation at the time of enrollment. First, let's identify which category applies to you.
High school students or those expecting to graduate from high school will follow "Course Completion Model 1," starting from the first year, as the standard pathway.
Students currently enrolled at overseas partner universities can choose from "Course Completion Model 2," "Model 3," or "Model 4," utilizing the Double Degree Program.
University graduates and working professionals can enter as fourth-year transfer students through "Course Completion Model 5," earning both a bachelor's and master's degree in as few as two years.
Detailed Overview of the 5 Course Completion Models
Course Completion Model 1: 5-Year Integrated Program (For High School Students / New Enrollees)
This model enables students to earn both a bachelor's and master's degree in a total of five years through Musashino University's integrated curriculum. Students systematically learn from fundamentals to advanced applications from the first through third year, then apply for the 5-Year Integrated Program at the end of their third year. After completing the bachelor's thesis and obtaining the bachelor's degree in the fourth year, students work on their master's thesis in the first year of the master's program to earn the master's degree.
Figure 2. Course Completion Model 1: 5-Year Integrated Program (For High School Students / New Enrollees).
Course Completion Model 2: Double Degree Starting in 3rd Year (For Students at Overseas Partner Universities)
This model is for students enrolled at overseas partner universities who begin the Double Degree Program in their third year. While taking first and second-year courses at their partner university, students also take Musashino University's curriculum in parallel starting from the third year. By utilizing the credit transfer system, students can obtain bachelor's degrees from both universities within four years.
Figure 3. Course Completion Model 2: Double Degree Starting in 3rd Year (For Students at Overseas Partner Universities).
Course Completion Model 3: Double Degree Starting in 4th Year (For Students at Overseas Partner Universities)
This model is for students who have studied at their overseas partner university through the third year and begin the Double Degree Program in their fourth year. By maximizing their learning at the partner university, students fulfill the requirements of both universities during one year in the fourth year, simultaneously obtaining two bachelor's degrees.
Figure 4. Course Completion Model 3: Double Degree Starting in 4th Year (For Students at Overseas Partner Universities).
Course Completion Model 4: Double Degree + 1-Year Master's (For Students at Overseas Partner Universities)
This is an advanced model that extends Course Completion Model 3 to include a master's program. After completing the Double Degree and obtaining two bachelor's degrees in the fourth year, students can also earn a master's degree with one additional year. This highly efficient pathway allows students to obtain two bachelor's degrees and one master's degree within a total of five years.
Figure 5. Course Completion Model 4: Double Degree + 1-Year Master's (For Students at Overseas Partner Universities).
Course Completion Model 5: 2-Year Course for University Graduates / Working Professionals
This model is designed for those who have already graduated from university or are working professionals. Students transfer into the fourth year of MIDS, obtaining a bachelor's degree in the first year and a master's degree in the second year. While leveraging existing degrees and professional experience, students can acquire expertise in data science in as few as two years.
Figure 6. Course Completion Model 5: 2-Year Course for University Graduates / Working Professionals.
Summary: Choose the Model That Fits You
MIDS features a flexible program design that allows you to choose the optimal learning pathway based on "when" and "from what background" you enroll. For those aiming to efficiently advance their skills in the growing field of data science, an attractive range of options awaits.
[Important] For Those Aiming to Complete the Master's Program in One Year
To complete the graduate master's program in one year, you must apply for the 5-Year Integrated Program or equivalent during the pre-enrollment procedures after receiving your acceptance notification. Additionally, please note that a separate application (with fee) and examination for the master's program are required. For details, please refer to the admissions guide or contact the Admissions Office.
Join Us in Changing the World
The Musashino University International Data Science program welcomes colleagues who will advance research together with us. Fusing practice and research to create new knowledge—won't you join us in this challenge? We look forward to changing the world together starting in April 2026.
Contact: Asia AI Institute, Musashino University 3-3-3 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8181, Japan Ariake Campus, Musashino University Associate Professor Yusuke Takahashi yusuke@ds.musashino-u.ac.jp
Related Resources: Musashino University 5-Year Integrated Program
