National Pingtung University (NPTU), the first comprehensive university in Taiwan integrating higher education, vocational training, and teacher education, actively promotes internationalization with over 230 overseas partner institutions. The university offers abundant resources for studying abroad, including student exchange programs and dual-degree opportunities. This year, for the first time, incoming freshmen (current high school seniors who have been admitted) are eligible to apply for a summer overseas learning program, earning credits transferable to their studies at NPTU. The university encourages students to "bravely step out into the world."
Over 230 Global Partner Universities
Located in southern Taiwan, NPTU promotes internationalization vigorously and boasts partnerships with more than 230 institutions worldwide. University President Chen Yung-Shen stated that these partnerships offer students diverse exchange opportunities, such as semester exchanges, overseas internships, dual-degree programs, and hosting international students studying in Pingtung.
Chen mentioned that the exchange program allows students to pay only NPTU tuition fees while studying abroad at partner universities, with about 200 places available annually. Institutions in Japan, South Korea, and Europe are the most popular destinations.
Dual-Degree Programs Enhance Global Connections and Reduce Costs
In addition to exchanges, President Chen highlighted the dual-degree system, enabling undergraduate students to spend two years at NPTU and two years at a partner institution. Graduate students can also participate, spending one year in Taiwan and another year abroad, receiving degrees from both institutions, significantly reducing educational expenses. NPTU is currently negotiating a doctoral triple-degree program with partner universities in France and Italy. Moreover, collaborations often involve joint research projects between faculty members of the partner institutions.
100 Overseas Learning Slots for Incoming Freshmen
President Chen announced that, starting this academic year (114th academic year), NPTU would provide 100 slots for newly admitted freshmen (current high school seniors) to study abroad during summer vacation. Participants can attend courses in South Korea, the Czech Republic, and Canada, with instruction entirely in English. The program includes professional courses, cultural experiences, accommodation in school dormitories, and opportunities to transfer credits upon return.
Chen explained this is a pilot initiative. If successful, the university plans to allocate more budget resources for future programs. NPTU also offers various international learning experiences, such as overseas study tours and internships, with funding ranging from full to partial support depending on the specific program.
"Giving students the opportunity to bravely step out into the world," Chen emphasized, noting that international exposure helps students understand Taiwan's global positioning, enhances their learning initiative, and improves competitiveness.
Additionally, NPTU announced that in the 114th academic year, a specialized program for Indigenous teacher training will be established, offering 40 fully funded scholarships to cultivate quality educators and enhance Indigenous education.