研究型大学における理系実務型人材育成の課題と実践の試み -米国の専門理学修士号PSMに注目して-

Abstract

Quality assurance in higher education is one of the most important problems in Japan, and around the world. Many studies have examined means of assuring the quality of education, mostly focusing on what type of graduate we should launch into the real world. However, it has been realized only in technical fields, such as Engineering, Medicine, etc. Management of Technology (MOT) is a popular major in Japan, but according to government research, it also has certain serious problems. Here, we discuss the problems of Japanese higher education in scientific fields, and present some answers from American innovation policies. The USA has changed the idea about how to innovate, and in recent years has developed the Professional Science Master's (PSM) degree, which is now awarded by over 100 American universities. PSM programs have produced graduates who can innovate in scientific fields, e.g., in biology, environmental science, and statistics. The degree is highly praised by the Council On Competitiveness, which consists of CEOs of major corporations, university presidents, and heads of labor organizations. The PSM seems to meet their expectations. Interestingly, many research universities have established PSM programs. We examined the reasons why many American universities have accepted the PSM despite their daily duties for research and doctoral education. Finally, we discuss the possibility that programs such as the PSM can succeed in Japanese universities.