Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'college' depends on the type of institution. The most common equivalent is 大学 (daigaku), meaning 'university' or 'college' in the sense of a four-year institution. For two-year colleges, junior colleges, or vocational schools, different terms are used. This guide helps you choose the right word based on the educational context.
Referring to a four-year higher education institution that grants bachelor's degrees.
The standard word for 'college' or 'university' in Japan. It covers both public and private four-year institutions.
I'm studying economics in college.
He will graduate from college next year.
Referring to a two-year institution, often called a junior college in the US.
Referring to a specialized training school, often post-secondary, that teaches practical skills.
A vocational or technical school. Not a 'college' in the academic degree sense, but often translated as such when the focus is on career training.
He's attending a culinary college to become a chef.
Referring to a specific college or school within a larger university (e.g., College of Engineering).
Means 'faculty' or 'department' within a university. When an American says 'College of Arts and Sciences,' the Japanese equivalent is 〇〇学部.
He is a student in the College of Engineering.
Using 'college' in a broad sense to mean the experience or period of higher education.
In Japanese, there is no exact equivalent for the broad American use of 'college' as a life stage. Use 大学 (daigaku) for the institution, or rephrase to describe the activity (e.g., '大学生活' for college life).
My college years were fun.
I haven't decided whether to go to college yet.
高校 (こうこう) means high school. Saying 高校 when you mean college is a common mistake for English speakers because 'college' can sometimes sound like 'high school' in other languages. Always use 大学 for post-secondary education.
大学 (daigaku) is a four-year university. 短大 (tandai) is a two-year junior college. 専門学校 (senmon gakkō) is a vocational school. Choose based on the length and type of program.
短大を出てすぐに就職した。
I got a job right after graduating from junior college.