International Christian University holds as its mission the establishment of an academic tradition of freedom and reverence based on Christian ideals and the cultivation of internationally-minded citizens who perform service to God and humankind and contribute to lasting peace.
ICU was founded with a mission to pursue truth, defend academic freedom, and enrich inner freedom. To attain the best results in the pursuit and conveyance of truth, it is essential to maintain the highest academic standards and the highest levels of academic freedom. We have the responsibility to defend our academic community from external constraints and coercion so that we can reach our lofty goal.
The communication of knowledge is of particular concern to all institutions of higher education. We are committed to educating and nurturing individuals who will integrate knowledge.
We expect our students to acquire the ability to think, critique, and make reasonable judgments as individuals serving truth and freedom, against any external restraint and coercion. Our mission is to send forth graduates who will fulfill their responsibilities based upon their newfound knowledge and skills.
ICU's commitment to a Christian philosophy enables us to explore and develop all human existence dimensions, including the religious.
We believe a Christian institution of higher learning has a distinct contribution to make to the world. Although differences may arise in explanation, interpretation, or proposed solutions to specific human conditions, our scientific and descriptive tools are the same as those used by scholars at other institutions. The knowledge discovered and taught is not an end in itself but carries with it specific implications, such as the responsibility for improving society. We believe in responsible scholarship.
Winning adherents to the Christian faith is not ICU's primary goal. But we encourage our students to open their eyes to the presence and power of God in their lives and society. Through this environment, students learn that acquiring knowledge is not an end in itself: we believe in the essential unity of knowledge, faith, and action.
Shortly after World War II, ICU was established, its founding philosophy embracing a supranational perspective based on deep reflection about the war. On the Mitaka campus, people from different nations and cultures live, study, and work together to form an international community. Our academic program reflects a variety of educational visions, with each encountering others from different backgrounds.
To promote mutual understanding and exchange in the international community, language ability is vital. ICU provides bilingual education in English and Japanese. The University provides students with various programs that connect them with the world outside Japan, including ample opportunities to study at universities overseas through our educational exchange programs.
The University seeks to provide a means for moral and religious development by offering various opportunities for inquiry, discussion, instruction, and worship, organized by the Religious Center, the Faculty Religious Affairs Committee, and student groups. Participation in these activities is optional.
A Chapel Hour is conducted for students, faculty, and staff every Wednesday during the lunch period, with university ministers, faculty and staff members, students, and guests from outside the campus as speakers.
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