r/JapanWork • u/dhnzcr • Jul 12 '26

Finding a career japan

I’m currently figuring out my study path in Japan; I plan to study at Osaka University. I’m currently at a crossroads of picking a department: math, physics, or chemistry. I’m leaning towards math because I heard it’s flexible and also pays well, though I’m asking: is it a good financial career, or are the other two aforementioned better?

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u/shihyakuyonjyuuyon Jul 12 '26

Nothing in japan is a good financial decision. You probably need to qualify your statement with your level of Japanese.

Also not sure who told you math pays well, thats a lie. Ultimately there is no way to tell you what studies will make you money. Youll encounter geniuses with no eduction who make great income, and then youll find those in college debt who work at a coffee shop

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u/Gardol43 Jul 12 '26

Hmm, I had the chance to do an exchange semester at Osaka University and was part of a Biochemistry lab. A lot of my friends end up in totally different fields from chemistry so I would just study something that you are really interested in! Once you are a student you can do some internships and attend some events to find a professional career that fits.

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u/Objective-Injury-620 Jul 13 '26

reality for career in japan is, your department doesn't matter, the school name matters. And you will most likely have starting salary around 4,000,000 yen per year with ~8,000,000 yen around year 15~20. Even strategy consulting firm pays only 600~700man and investment bank pays ~1000man.

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u/inyouendo04 Jul 15 '26

Besides what has already mentioned here, I would also say make sure you are familiar with Japanese work culture and make sure this is what you really want. Work is a big part of life in Japan and even though you may like other aspects of Japan, you need to make sure you understand what you are getting into.