It is said that the University of the Ryukyus ranks at the bottom among national universities, but is it really that bad? Will you truly be laughed at upon admission?
The University of the Ryukyus has long been considered the lowest-ranked national university. Many are surprised that there is a national university ranked below Tottori University.
In this article, we will explain in detail the deviation scores and reputation of the University of the Ryukyus. You will gain a clear understanding of the university, and you can aim for the department of your choice to easily become a national university graduate.
Detailed Information about the University of the Ryukyus
Basic Information about the University of the Ryukyus
The basic information of the University of the Ryukyus is as follows:
| University Name | University of the Ryukyus |
| Location | Chihara 1, Nishihara Town, Nakagami District, Okinawa Prefecture |
| Phone Number | 098-895-3331 |
| Founded | May 1950 |
| Faculties | Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Faculty of Global and Regional Development, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Science, Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture |
| Number of Students and Faculty | Students: 7,096, Faculty: 877 |
Since it is a national university, the University of the Ryukyus is quite large in scale.
Tuition Fees of the University of the Ryukyus
The tuition fees at the University of the Ryukyus are approximately 2.43 million yen for a 4-year course, and 3.5 million yen for a 6-year course.
Details are as follows:
| Item | Cost (JPY) |
| Admission Fee | 282,000 |
| Tuition Fee | 535,800 |
As a national university, the University of the Ryukyus offers relatively low tuition fees.
Deviation Scores of the University of the Ryukyus
The deviation scores for each faculty at the University of the Ryukyus are as follows:
| Faculty | Department | Deviation Score |
| Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences | International Law and Politics | 45.0 |
| Sociology | 45.0 | |
| Ryukyu and Asian Cultures | 45.0 | |
| Faculty of Global and Regional Development | International Regional Creation | 45.0 |
| Faculty of Education | Elementary Education | 45.0 |
| Secondary Education | 47.5 | |
| Special Needs Education | 45.0 | |
| Faculty of Science | Mathematical Sciences | 45.0 |
| Materials and Earth Sciences | 45.0 | |
| Marine Natural Sciences | 47.5 | |
| Faculty of Medicine | Medicine | 65.0 |
| Health Sciences | 50.0 | |
| Faculty of Engineering | Engineering | 42.5 |
| Faculty of Agriculture | Subtropical Agriculture | 45.0 |
| Subtropical Forestry and Environmental Sciences | 45.0 | |
| Regional Agricultural Engineering | 45.0 | |
| Subtropical Biological Resources | 45.0 |
For a national university, the deviation scores of the University of the Ryukyus are relatively low.
In the national deviation ranking, the University of the Ryukyus is ranked 273rd out of 767 universities, and 165th out of 178 national universities.
Although it ranks in the top half overall, it falls within the bottom 10% among Japan's national universities.
Employment Opportunities at the University of the Ryukyus
The employment rate at the University of the Ryukyus in 2023 was 95.7%.
Moreover, only 73% of graduates chose to seek employment, as many opted to pursue graduate studies.
For more detailed information about the careers of graduates, please refer to the Career Status of Graduates on the University of the Ryukyus website.
Although this page does not list the company names where graduates are employed, it provides insight into the industries they are involved in.
Notable Alumni of the University of the Ryukyus
Here is a list of 20 distinguished individuals from the University of the Ryukyus.
- Ken Maeda (Comedian)
- Katsuta Ooshiro (Announcer)
- Toshinaka Nakazato (House of Representatives Member)
- Masashige Uchima (Comedian)
- Natsuki Iijima (Windsurfer)
- Toshiji Higa (Announcer)
- Shun Medoruma (Novelist)
- Izumi Taira (Announcer)
- Tatekawa Mensore (Rakugo Performer)
- Sayuri Ihara (Announcer)
- Nanae Kaneshiro (Announcer)
- Toshiyuki Tamashiro (Comedian)
- Hayanon (Manga Artist)
- Yoshiko Yorikawa (Announcer)
- Mitsu Ichinoya (Former Sumo Wrestler)
- Yutaka Sadoshima (Folk Singer)
- Mariko Ataniya (Announcer)
- Eiki Matayoshi (Novelist)
- Kantoku Teruya (House of Representatives Member)
- Kazuhiko Kato (President of Sanyodo Holdings)
The University of the Ryukyus has produced elites from a variety of fields.
Social Media of the University of the Ryukyus
The University of the Ryukyus runs a YouTube channel.
This channel features videos introducing the university.
The University of the Ryukyus provides information for prospective students, including details on departments and dormitories.
Below is a video introducing the dormitories.
Additionally, click here for the official X/Twitter account of the University of the Ryukyus.
The Twitter account showcases events and research achievements at the University of the Ryukyus.
Reputation and Evaluations of the University of the Ryukyus
Reputation ①: Lowest Deviation Score among Japanese National Universities
It is widely known that the University of the Ryukyus has the lowest deviation score among Japanese national universities.
Some might argue that despite its lower rank, it's still a national university, so its students should be of a decent caliber, right?
However, even among national universities, some students are seen as lacking in academic excellence.
Reputation ②: Slow Response from the Administrative Office
Many have expressed frustration over the slow response of the administrative office. This seems to be a common issue among regional national universities.
Particularly for those accustomed to city life, the slow pace of operations in rural areas like Okinawa can be quite frustrating.
Reputation ③: Fun and Engaging Student Life
The most common feedback about the University of the Ryukyus is that “student life is fun and interesting.”
As the university is located in Okinawa, it offers a cultural experience distinct from Honshu and Shikoku, which may appeal to many students.
If you're drawn to such unique aspects, life at the University of the Ryukyus could be very enjoyable for you.
Evaluation ①: Male / Medical School / Enrolled in 2023
Overall Rating
It’s challenging, but very rewarding. The medical school is tough at first, but considering the future, it’s worth it.
Lectures/Classes
The courses are difficult but fulfilling. I deepened my understanding through discussions with friends.
Career/Advancement
Though challenging, I feel satisfied. Since it's a medical school, I believe career prospects will not be an issue.
Transportation/Location
Coming from outside the prefecture, the climate is wonderful. However, transportation isn’t great if you’re driving or taking the monorail and then transferring to a bus.
Facilities/Equipment
Some parts are a bit old, but still within acceptable limits. I don’t have any major complaints and am quite satisfied.
Friendships/Romance
Everyone gets along well, and it's easy to make lifelong friends. It’s interesting to be around people from diverse backgrounds.
Student Life
I’m having a great time. Even in the medical department, there are plenty of clubs and activities to join.
Evaluation ②: Male / International Law and Politics, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences / Enrolled in 2023
Overall Rating
I’m satisfied because this is the field I wanted to study. However, to be honest, it’s a bit tough, especially in areas focused on law.
Lectures/Classes
This is a recommended course as you can learn a lot about international relations and law!
Career/Advancement
It’s easy to align your career path with your major, making it simpler to consider future career options.
Transportation/Location
The campus is large and it’s easy to get lost. I’d recommend reviewing the campus map in advance as much as possible.
Facilities/Equipment
The environment is conducive to learning without any inconvenience. There’s nothing to worry about.
Friendships/Romance
There are clubs in various fields, including sports, so you can do whatever interests you. It makes for a very fulfilling university experience.
Student Life
The campus is large, and many events are held, making it ideal for those who enjoy participating in a variety of activities.
Evaluation ③: Female / Faculty of Global and Regional Studies, Department of Global and Regional Planning / Enrolled in 2023
Overall Rating
My professors are wonderful, my friends and seniors are kind, and the atmosphere is great! Also, the school cafeteria is truly delicious!
Lectures/Classes
The professors are very friendly, and there isn't too much homework! All my classmates are kind as well, so it's easy to ask questions!
Labs/Seminars
The labs are very clean and easy to use, and I appreciate how well-maintained everything is!
Career/Advancement
The professors are very supportive, and the employment rate is fairly good!
Transportation/Location
There’s a bus stop nearby, and plenty of shops around, so finding lunch is never a problem!
Friendships/Romance
If you're part of a club or society, you can make a lot of friends and interact with seniors!
Student Life
There are so many circles and activities, so everyone can enjoy themselves!
Frequently Asked Questions about the University of the Ryukyus
Will I be looked down upon for attending the University of the Ryukyus?
This is largely because the University of the Ryukyus is known to rank near the bottom.
Regardless of how prestigious a local national university might be, smaller companies often regard national university students with a different attitude.
However, in the case of the University of the Ryukyus, the prestige associated with being a national university is somewhat diminished.
Is the academic level at the University of the Ryukyus really that low?
It really depends on the quality of the faculty.
The medical school’s tuition is not that low, but aside from the medical program, the other departments are relatively inexpensive.
However, it’s not ranked as an "F" university, so while it may be lower than some, it's still at an average level.
