Curry University (operated by Curry Research Institute Co., Ltd., represented by Takehisa Inoue), which runs a community college for curry, has started recruitment for the 10th term (2026 academic year, Professional Course) of its premier advanced course, the 'Curry Graduate School', which cultivates top runners and experts in the curry business. The course has produced approximately 100 graduates to date, many of whom have become media personalities and producers of hit products. It operates on an ultra-small elite system with a capacity of around 5 students. Ahead of the opening on August 29 (Saturday), 2026, an early bird discount of 50,000 yen off the tuition fee is available for applications submitted by June 30 (Friday).

Official website: (link)

Background: Why do business professionals need specialized knowledge of curry now?

Curry, a national dish, has evolved into a huge business market through regional revitalization (local curry), health trends using spices, and new entries from other industries. However, simply liking curry is not enough to survive intense market competition. This course targets those who aspire to turn curry into a business and thrive in the industry, appear in media to convey its appeal, or learn cutting-edge marketing. It is the only 'Professional Training Course' in Japan that thoroughly instills knowledge and practical skills directly linked to the curry business.

Four Overwhelming Strengths of the Curry Graduate School

(1) Thorough Learning of Five Major Subjects

Covering the five major subjects of History, Sociology, Merchandising, Culinary Science, and Spice Science over 5 months (6 sessions), from basics to application and practical business and product development.

(2) Direct Instruction by Leading Experts and Seminar-Style Real & Online Lectures

Lectures are given by leading experts in each field, including the president Takehisa Inoue, a foremost authority on curry research in Japan. The seminar-style approach emphasizes presentations and discussions, fostering independent thinking and proposal skills. The curriculum balances in-person intensive lectures (with tastings and cooking practice) and convenient Zoom lectures.

(3) Ultra-Small Elite System (max 5 students) and Thorough Aftercare

Personalized guidance tailored to each student's personality and business plan. Post-graduation, continuous support for job placement and career development ensures high results.

(4) Professional Quality Guaranteed by Strict Graduation Standards

Attendance of at least 80% of all lectures and passing a final graduation exam are mandatory. Graduates are certified as 'Curry Instructors' and 'Curry Producers', earning strong trust from the industry.

Outstanding Graduate Achievements

Approximately 100 graduates have gone on to become influencers and business leaders in the curry world.

Media appearances: Popular TV shows like 'Matsuko's Unknown World' and 'Minna no News', magazines, and web media.

Education: Lecturers at Curry University, major culture centers, TV symposiums, and corporate seminars.

Business: Launching successful curry specialty stores, supporting major curry chain openings (store planning, recipe development, marketing consulting), and advising on retort curry development.

Curriculum Schedule (2026 Academic Year)

Blend of in-person lectures (Shibuya or Kanda venue) and online (Zoom) for easy balance with work.

1st: August 29 (Sat) 10:00-11:00 [In-person] Opening ceremony, guidance, advanced spice science, tasting. 2nd: September 16 (Wed) 19:00-21:00 [Online] Curry research (history), seminar, president lecture. 3rd: October 10 (Sat) 10:00-13:00 [In-person] Curry research (merchandising), seminar, president lecture, tasting. 4th: November 3 (Tue, holiday) 10:00-17:00 [Cooking practice] Curry research (culinary science), seminar, demonstration, cooking presentations. 5th: December 2 (Wed) 19:00-21:00 [Online] Curry research (sociology), seminar, president lecture. 6th: December 19 (Sat) 10:00-13:00 [In-person] Graduation ceremony, results announcement, curry networking reception, keynote speech.

Admission Requirements

Target: Individuals aiming to become curry professionals. Selection exam (aptitude and achievements) by instructors. Duration: August to December 2026 (opening date August 29). Location: In-person (Shibuya or Kanda) / Online (Zoom). Capacity: Approximately 5 trainees. Certifications obtainable: Curry Instructor, Curry Producer. Fee: 250,000 yen (excluding tax). Early bird: 200,000 yen (excluding tax) for applications by June 30, 2026. Final application deadline: August 10, 2026 (may close early if capacity reached).

How to Apply

Fill in the required items and send by email or fax. Contact: Curry University 'Curry Graduate School 2026' office. Email: [email protected] Fax: 0480-72-8898

Required items: (1) Name (2) Company/organization (or 'individual') (3) Address (4) Phone/Fax (5) Email (6) Curry University student number (7) Desired course: General Course

Media inquiries: Curry Research Institute Co., Ltd. (Curry University office), [email protected], http://currydaigaku.jp/

About Curry University: A community university for curry.

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  • Category: Event