Q&A

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

What is the lab’s philosophy or approach to management and learning?
A Thinking, Communicating, and Re-examining-Cultivating Research and Practical Skills Through Seminar-Based Learning
 At the Laboratory of Management and Innovation Engineering, we place seminar-style learning at the core of our educational approach, in place of conventional laboratory-based experiments typically found in other engineering departments. Our seminars are small-group research discussions designed to foster each student’s ability to deeply engage with a topic, think independently, and communicate their ideas effectively.
 Seminars are held weekly for over three hours. Each student presents findings or progress on their research theme, followed by in-depth group discussions. Constructive peer feedback and detailed guidance from faculty accelerate learning and critical thinking.
 These seminars are the foundation of our lab activities ? a platform for active learning and personal growth. Attendance is mandatory; even job-hunting is not considered an exception. Students are encouraged to proactively communicate this policy to prospective employers to foster mutual understanding.
 Beyond acquiring specialized knowledge, we place great importance on developing statistical thinking and analytical skills that are applicable across all sectors of society. By the time students complete their graduate studies, our goal is to equip them with the ability to identify real-world problems, formulate hypotheses, analyze data, and propose evidence-based solutions.
 In our lab, which values autonomy and dialogue, we invite you to turn your intellectual curiosity and drive for growth into tangible outcomes.
Q: What do students learn when they join the lab as fourth-year undergraduates?
A Developing Future Business Leaders with Strong Analytical Skills-Practical Research Guidance Utilizing Engineering Thinking
 In our lab, we offer individualized guidance through the creation of research notes and tailored thesis supervision, starting from each student’s area of expertise. Our aim is to cultivate future business leaders who can apply engineering insights in the business world and contribute as "data-driven executives" to society.

(First Phase) Inquiry Design ? Expanding Knowledge and Formulating Questions
 In the first phase, we begin by confirming the foundational knowledge of statistics. (For undergraduates, this corresponds to the level of the Statistical Proficiency Test Level 2, and for graduate students, it includes basic operations of various statistical analysis software.) Building upon this foundation, students explore cutting-edge topics in management and expand their knowledge base, including:
・Design Thinking - The ability to redefine problems from the customer’s perspective and generate solutions
・Gamification / Serious Games - Designing mechanisms that encourage behavioral change
・SDGs / ESG Management - Creating new business value based on sustainability principles
 Through these studies, students set their thesis topics, relating them to their own areas of expertise.

(Second Phase) Research Practice ? Formulating Hypotheses, Analyzing, and Proposing Solutions
 In the second phase, each student receives individualized thesis supervision according to their chosen theme, focusing on deepening their research. By experiencing the entire research process ? from hypothesis formulation and statistical analysis to interpreting results and proposing solutions ? students cultivate the ability to think critically and propose solutions to society.

Note: While prior knowledge of statistics is not required, a strong willingness to develop analytical skills is essential.
 By translating scientific expertise into the "language of management," our lab carefully nurtures future practitioners who will contribute to society with data-driven insights.

Q: What will I study in the Graduate Program (Management and Innovation Engineering Course)?
A Designing the Future of Management-Practice-Oriented Research Integrating Data and Creativity
 At the Laboratory of Management and Innovation Engineering, we foster the ability to interpret business and economic phenomena through statistical analysis while envisioning future solutions through design thinking. Our mission is to cultivate professionals who can tackle complex societal challenges by combining data-driven reasoning with creative insight.

Evidence-Based Thinking and Statistical Analysis
 We place strong emphasis on empirical research using statistical software to uncover causal relationships and trends behind business and social phenomena. For master's theses and other academic outputs, students are expected to construct logically sound analyses based on quantitative data.

Creative Problem Solving Through Design Thinking
 Beyond data analysis, students learn to redefine problems from a user-centered perspective and generate innovative solutions through design thinking. This fosters the ability to understand and shape intangible elements such as "meaning" and "value," equipping students with creativity grounded in real-world relevance.

Shaping a New Vision of Management Through Interdisciplinary Learning
 As part of the Management and Innovation Engineering Course (available as a major or minor), the lab integrates insights from management engineering, educational technology, and information science to explore new paradigms of management. Our research focuses on innovation that delivers meaningful impact and practical implementation in society.
 We offer opportunities for interdisciplinary study across a wide range of fields, including:
・Intellectual Property Management
・Technology Development and Management of Technology (MOT)
・Globalization and International Strategy
・Entrepreneurship Education
 Through this multifaceted approach, students develop a broad understanding of corporate strategy and the practical skills necessary for solving complex problems in a rapidly changing world.
Q: How can I enroll in the Laboratory of Management and Innovation Engineering?
A Admission - A Research Lab that Thrives on Diversity
 Applicants can designate this laboratory as their preferred research group when applying through the general entrance examination for the Master’s Program in Industrial Innovation Engineering. Our lab welcomes not only graduates from the University of Fukui’s Faculty of Engineering, but also students from other departments, faculties, and universities?both domestic and international?including those with backgrounds in engineering as well as the social sciences. This diversity brings fresh perspectives and intellectual stimulation to our research environment.

For Those Who Aspire to Bridge Technology and Society
 We warmly welcome motivated students from all fields and institutions who are eager to take on the challenge of conducting research that connects technology with society.
Q: What kind of career paths or roles are envisioned for graduates of this program?
A Cultivating Gamma (γ)-Shaped Talent
 Our lab aims to nurture the next generation of “γ-shaped professionals”?individuals who combine the technical expertise of the sciences and engineering (α) with the critical insights of the humanities and social sciences (β). We cultivate professionals capable of interpreting data accurately and objectively, supporting decision-making in teams and organizations, and thinking and acting flexibly in times of rapid change. Our graduates are prepared to play key roles at the strategic core of companies and institutions.

Creativity and Challenge as a Daily Practice
 Beyond academic research, our lab provides diverse opportunities for hands-on experience, including prototype development, idea competitions, and projects aimed at real-world implementation. Students are expected not only to tackle assigned problems but also to ask their own questions, engage in collaborative discussions, and deliver meaningful outcomes to society.

 Graduates of our lab are envisioned to pursue careers such as:
・Strategic planning and business development in corporate innovation divisions
・Intrapreneurship or launching startups
・Project management in social innovation sectors such as public agencies or NPOs
・Policy research and consulting in think tanks or advisory firms
・Sustainable succession and innovation in family businesses or entrepreneurial ventures

Become a leader who bridges management and technology, turning change into opportunity.
 Why not start envisioning that future together?right here?