Dr. Robert Pekkanen

Professor

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Biography

Robert J. Pekkanen is a Professor at the Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies and serves as the Chair of the Japan Studies Program at the University of Washington. He also holds adjunct appointments in the Departments of Political Science and Sociology. Pekkanen earned his Ph.D. in Political Science from Harvard University in 2002. His research focuses on electoral systems, political parties, interview methods, and the role of nonprofits in civil society. He has published numerous articles in leading political science journals and has authored fourteen books, contributing significantly to the discourse on electoral systems and Japanese civil society. His notable works include 'Japan’s Dual Civil Society,' which garnered the Masayoshi Ohira Prize in 2008, and 'The Rise and Fall of Japan’s LDP.' Pekkanen's collaborative research has received recognition, including the ISS/Oxford Prize for Modern Japanese Studies. His expertise is reflected in his numerous edited volumes and articles that examine Japanese elections and governance. He is committed to advancing research through collaboration and engages with funding bodies such as the Mellon Foundation and the National Science Foundation.

Research Interests

Requirements for University of Washington

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:80
IELTS
Overall
Required:6.5
Duolingo
Overall Score
Required:105
Overall
Required:105
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Resume/CV
  • English proficiency scores (for international students)
Specialization Notes

Standard Graduate School requirements for University of Washington apply to most departments listed unless specified otherwise by the program.