Picture a fleur-de-lys holding a sword. This emblem represents Shirayuri University a Catholic women’s university. It stands in Chofu Tokyo. Shirayuri University is known for its commitment to service education.
The story of Shirayuri University begins in France. It started with the Convent of Saint Paul Chartre in the 17th century. Nuns from this sisterhood later established a school in Tokyo in 1881. This humble beginning laid the foundation for Shirayuri Gakuen. In 1965 the present Shirayuri College was established. It became a four-year institution.
Shirayuri University emphasizes truth intellect empathy. It wants students to appreciate the beauty of the natural world. The university has a strong connection to its feeder schools. These include Shirayuri Pre-school Elementary School and Middle/High School. About 20% of students continue their education all the way to the university. Many others begin their Shirayuri education here.
Shirayuri University offers high-level courses. These include Japanese Literature French and English. They also offer Children’s Literature/Culture and Psychology. The graduate school is co-ed. It offers programs in Developmental Psychology and Foreign Language/Literature.
The culture at Shirayuri is unique. Students often call the Sister in charge “Ma Soeur”. This means “My Sister” in French. Homeroom classes are led by the Sisters. The school is small. It focuses on classes good manners. It is less about wealth.
Since its campus transfer in 1965 Shirayuri boasts modern buildings. It also has a chapel. Their sister school is Sendai Shirayuri Women’s College.
The university’s history shows its dedication to education. Three French nuns arrived in Hakodate in 1878. They wanted to start a convent. This led to the school’s founding in Kanda Tokyo. Shirayuri University moved to its current location in Chofu in 1965.
The school’s mission is reflected in its motto. The motto is “Truth Goodness Beauty”. The lily flower represents purity humility and grace. The university aims to cultivate independent women. It wants them to have broad perspectives and specialized knowledge.
Shirayuri University has long traditions in language studies. These include Japanese English and French. The Children’s Literature department is a hub for research. The Developmental Psychology program is also noteworthy. It focuses on early childhood development.
Several facilities have Latin names. Stella Maris is the student cafeteria. Amica Pia is the store. Porta Caeli is the stepped classroom.
The graduation ceremony has unique customs. Students wear suits instead of academic gowns. They don caps and gowns. This is similar to European universities.
Shirayuri University is part of the Japanese Catholic University Federation. It offers several scholarships. These include the Shirayuri Women’s University Scholarship. There is also the Shirayuri Women’s University Alumnae Association Scholarship.
Shirayuri University continues to uphold its values. It prepares women to contribute to the world. Its rich history and commitment to education make it special. The university’s emblem serves as a reminder of its mission. It pursues truth goodness and beauty.