The Institute for Media and Communications Research ( formerly the Institute for Communications Research ) was established in 1946, in the aftermath of Japan's defeat in the Second World War, for the purpose of research and education in connection with mass communication. The founders considered that the obvious malfunctioning of Japan's mass media prior to and during the war was one of the major factors contributing to her aggressiveness. They firmly believed in a " sound" flow of information as a requisite for a " sound" society.

Researchers at the institute have accomplished various research projects, forming research teams with scholars from Keio faculties and outside. The results of these projects have been published in books and journals.

The Institute provides a special intensive program for undergraduate. The program offers various classes on media and communications. Every year, about 50 sophomores are accepted for enrollment as special students at the institute. They get the institute's special diploma after completing a final thesis and the course work. The institute offers several course as follows. A considerable number of students completing the program enter the media communication industry.

Although the institute does not offer courses for graduate students, such students are able to join research projects at the institute. The institute itself has own research fund for such projects.