New Academic Programs Merging Tradition with Tomorrow's Tech
In response to the increasing demand for multidisciplinary skills, NTNU has introduced eight new academic programs. These programs, open to cross-registration among the three universities in the National Taiwan University System consortium, are designed to bridge the gap between conventional academic disciplines and emerging industries, focusing on areas such as semiconductors, the metaverse, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) sustainability. This move is part of NTNU's larger strategy to enhance its global presence, foster deeper industry partnerships, and establish itself as a leading comprehensive university.
NTNU's curriculum development approach is proactive, aimed at preparing students for the dynamic job market. The university now offers a diverse range of courses, each spanning at least 12 credits across various interdisciplinary fields. These courses are carefully curated to align with projected industry trends and demands, incorporating practical training to improve students' job market readiness and competitiveness.
For the 2023-2024 academic year, NTNU has rolled out credit courses in various fields, including semiconductors, technology-enhanced teaching, metaverse storytelling, scientific computing, business analysis, ESG sustainable management, physical training, and Hakka language and culture. These course offerings are available to undergraduate, master's, and doctoral students.
A highlight among these is the semiconductor program, a joint effort between NTNU’s College of Technology and Engineering, the College of Science, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC). In addition to academic coursework, students participate in workshops taught by TSMC professionals. Students completing at least 15 courses with an average academic score of 80 or above qualify for interview opportunities at TSMC and potential on-job bonuses.
NTNU has also updated its curriculum to include courses addressing contemporary industrial needs, such as ESG sustainable management and metaverse narrative courses. These are designed to equip students with the necessary skills to address current challenges like carbon emissions and consumer rights, promoting cross-disciplinary innovation and media adaptability.
These programs place an emphasis on amalgamating theoretical knowledge with practical application. For instance, the coursework in business analysis prioritizes the analysis, management, and application of data in areas such as financial risk assessment and consumer behavior analysis, which are critical tools for developing business strategies. The coursework in technology-enhanced education aim to modernize educational methodologies through technology. In alignment with national development goals, new courses on Hakka language and culture, computational science, and interdisciplinary EMI courses have been introduced to encourage linguistic proficiency and interdisciplinary exploration. Additionally, a course on strength and physical training has been launched to meet the growing demand for fitness industry professionals in Taiwan.
Dr. Meihui Liu, Vice President for Academic Affairs at NTNU, emphasized the university’s initiative to facilitate dual major or minor pursuits through a flexible credit system. This system requires online registration and the submission of written materials, enabling students to earn certification upon completing designated courses within a specified timeframe, thereby enhancing their professional profiles.
These programs reflect NTNU's commitment to cultivating future leaders by integrating interdisciplinary coursework with practical training. This ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the modern workforce's challenges. Interested individuals can find application details on the Academic Affairs Office's website. Registration will be open from April 22 to May 6.