The university traces its origin to 1919 when Konan Gakuen School was founded in Okamoto, Kobe, Japan.

The formation of the school is based on the ideals of character building (personality development), physical fitness, and respect for the individual.

All programs are accredited by Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.

In previous years the homestay was a mandatory part of the program, however, due to increasing numbers of international students in the academic year 2008–2009, a dormitory option was made available for non-Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs students.

Konan offers exchange opportunities with the following universities: In addition, students from the Illinois Consortium are welcome.