Translation guide
In Japanese, the term for 'technical university' depends on the level and type of institution. The most common equivalent is 工業大学 (kōgyō daigaku), which refers to a university specializing in engineering and technology. For institutes of technology, 工科大学 (kōka daigaku) is also used. When referring to technical colleges that are not full universities (like polytechnics), 高等専門学校 (kōtō senmon gakkō), often abbreviated as 高専 (kōsen), is the standard term.
The learner wants to refer to a full university that focuses on technical and engineering disciplines.
He graduated from Tokyo Institute of Technology.
Literally 'engineering science university', this term is used for some institutes of technology. It is less common than 工業大学 but appears in names like 東京工科大学.
Tokyo University of Technology is building a new campus.
The learner wants to refer to a technical college that is not a full university, similar to a polytechnic or institute of technology at a sub-university level.
This is the formal term for a college of technology in Japan, offering five-year programs starting after junior high school. It is often translated as 'technical college'.
You can learn practical skills at a technical college.
This is the common abbreviation for 高等専門学校. It is widely used in conversation and informal writing.
The learner wants a broad term that can cover both universities and colleges focused on technology.
This phrase means 'technology-oriented university' and can be used to describe any higher education institution with a technical focus.
I want to go to a technical university.
Both terms refer to universities specializing in technology. 工業大学 is more common and traditional, while 工科大学 is used by some newer institutions. In practice, the difference is often just in the official name.
専門学校 (senmon gakkō) is a vocational school, not a technical university. It offers shorter, more practical courses in various fields, not just technology. Use 高等専門学校 or 高専 for technical colleges.
高専を卒業して就職する学生も多い。
Many students find jobs after graduating from technical college.