IAGS Center for German and European Studies (DESK)
The Center for German and European Studies (DESK) was originally established as the Department for German and European Studies at the Graduate School of Arts and Science and the College of Arts and Science in October 2000, as the first Center for German and European Studies sponsored by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) in Asia. It was reorganized as a University Center in April 2005 and became part of IAGS in April 2010.
With its focus placed on the study and research of modern Germany and Europe, the Center's aim is to prepare students for future careers as Germany and Europe experts in various social fields such as politics, economics, and culture, in addition to playing an active role as a hub in an international research network for German and European Studies in the Asia-Pacific region.
Several academic programs are offered, including the European Studies Program (ESP) leading to a Master's degree, and the Japanese-German International Joint Graduate School (IGK) for PhD students. Research projects conducted with universities overseas have been devoted to such cutting-edge themes as "EU and Global Governance" and "Historical Reconciliation in Europe - From Conflict to Collaboration". These programs and research projects form part of a lively exchange with researchers and Centers for German and European Studies abroad, in an ongoing effort at strengthening international cooperation and ties.
