Two programs designed around the same principle: AI is the expected medium of work, and the human's job is judgment, verification, and intent.
Project-based learning combining independent research with collaborative studios. The thesis offers two paths: designing an evidence-based product that addresses a real-world problem, or pursuing scientific research.
A fast-track option exists for students who earn 4 impact points (peer-reviewed publications, exhibitions, patents, or funding rounds) — standard coursework remains required but the thesis is waived.
Course planning, research discussions, annual goals. Enrollment, expectations agreement, advising committee formed.
Annual reflection, research thesis planning. Review of Year 1, first committee meeting.
Course planning, goal-setting, propose thesis. Expectations agreement, start thesis review.
Complete required courses, complete and defend thesis.
Advanced research with impact-point milestones. Dissertation committee includes at least five examiners, with one or two external to SDS (and possibly Chiba Tech) strongly encouraged.
Traditional PhD: 4 impact points. Fast-track: 8 impact points with at least one A-level product.
Course planning, goal-setting, research discussions. Enrollment, form advising committee. Annual reflection and first achievement by year end.
Dissertation proposal, second achievement. Second mentoring meeting, first impact points earned, pass proposal.
Mandatory coursework complete, finalize review committee. Submit and defend dissertation, finish achievement points.
SDS doesn't sit within any single discipline. Its curriculum is built around the Krebs Cycle of Creativity — the four mandates of Science, Engineering, Design, and Art — and asks students to move fluidly between them rather than alternating hats.
Rather than alternating between wearing four separate hats, we provide one pair of shoes for the journey.
The twelve founding orientations define the directional commitments:
Three tiers of courses span the curriculum.
DNA and APS — taught by all faculty, combining lectures, tutorials, and collaborative projects. The backbone of the antidisciplinary experience.
Courses open to all Chiba Tech students, including Principles of Awareness and Human & Machine Learning. Cross-disciplinary by design.
Practice-focused courses in entrepreneurship, Web3, and emerging technologies. Real-world experimentation with external partners.
Pre-applications for Spring 2027 open June 1, 2026.
How to Apply