Message

Message from the Dean of the Faculty

永島医学部長(英語表記)

The Faculty of Medicine Tottori University was established as the Yonago Medical College on July 1, 1945, near the end of World War II, thanks to the dedication of many individuals. It later became Yonago Medical University and was renamed to its current form, the Faculty of Medicine Tottori University, in 1949. The faculty expanded with the establishment of the School of Life Sciences in 1990 and the School of Health Sciences in 1999, forming the current three-school structure. In 2025, the faculty will celebrate its 80th anniversary. The graduate school, originally founded as the Graduate School of Medical Sciences in 1958, underwent several name changes and reorganizations in line with faculty restructuring. In 2020, it was restructured into three majors: Medicine (Doctoral Course), Integrated Medical Sciences (Master’s and Doctoral Courses), and Clinical Psychology (Master’s Course).

Since its establishment, with the warm support of the local community, the Faculty of Medicine Tottori University has produced numerous professionals equipped with both a holistic perspective essential for medical professionals and researchers, as well as advanced expertise and technical skills. Moving forward, we remain committed to training individuals who can accurately respond to the diverse needs of society and those suffering from illness, fostering broad knowledge, strong ethical values, and evidence-based decision-making skills. At the same time, we aim to further develop the traditions we have cultivated over the years by integrating education, research, medical practice, and social contribution, ensuring the continuous development of future medical leaders.

The Faculty of Medicine Tottori University attracts a diverse group of students and researchers not only from Tottori Prefecture but also from across Japan and abroad, fostering an academic environment where individuals challenge and inspire one another. Through cutting-edge basic research, translational studies bridging laboratory findings to clinical practice, and the implementation of advanced treatments at the university hospital, which serves as the final stronghold of community healthcare, we have contributed to public health promotion and the development of new treatment methods, all while ensuring compassionate and safe patient care. Moving forward, we will continue to promote advanced research rooted in the local community, expand international collaborations, and contribute to the creation of a sustainable society through advancements in medical science.

Tottori Prefecture is a region rich in mythology related to medicine, as seen in the legends of “The White Rabbit of Inaba” and “The Red Boar Rock” recorded in the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters). Surrounded by the majestic nature of the Sea of Japan and Mount Daisen, the area offers abundant opportunities for marine and mountain sports, as well as a diverse array of local culinary delights. Within this historically and naturally enriched environment, students and researchers can immerse themselves in academic and scientific pursuits. We are dedicated to enhancing our curriculum, learning, and research environment so that every student and researcher can develop a strong sense of ethics and a passion for inquiry. To achieve this, we actively promote interdisciplinary collaboration across departments and research laboratories, foster partnerships with local medical institutions and government bodies, and expand cooperation with universities and research institutions abroad.

We sincerely appreciate your continued understanding and support as the Faculty of Medicine Tottori University embarks on new challenges and advancements in the future.

Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University Hideki Nagashima