Since its foundation in 1966, the department has been engaged in educational and research activities on modern and contemporary history with a special emphasis on its international and global nature. Students are encouraged to take broader perspectives that transcend national boundaries even when examining the history of a particular country. For its educational activities, the department receives the support of staff members from other faculties, including the Faculty of Integrated Human Studies and the Institute for Research in Humanities. In 2008-2009, lecture courses will be given on the modern history of Japan, China, Korea, Germany, the United States, and international relations.

• http://www.bun.kyoto-u.ac.jp/contemporary/ (in Japanese)