Taiwan: Postgraduate study

How does the higher education system work?

There is a network of colleges and universities across Taiwan, both public and private, with many concentrated in urban areas such as the capital, Taipei. Some institutions specialise in particular subject fields such as technology and medicine. The structure of the higher education system is quite similar to that of the UK. The Study in Taiwan  website has detailed information for foreign students.

What courses are available?

A wide variety of Masters and Doctoral programmes are offered in Taiwanese universities, colleges and graduate schools in a range of subjects such as science, literature, humanities and business disciplines. MBA programmes are also available. There are many centres of research activity in Taiwanese colleges and universities. A list of courses taught in English is available on the Study in Taiwan  website.

Masters programmes typically last between two and four years. Doctoral programmes usually last between two and seven years. Details are listed on the websites of individual institutions.

Where can I study?

Courses are offered through a network of universities, colleges and graduate schools, with some specialising in particular disciplines such as arts, science, technology or education. These are located throughout Taiwan, particularly in the principal centres of population. A list of universities in Taiwan can be found at Universities Worldwide .

Applying for postgraduate study

Application procedures vary slightly but all institutions have websites containing extensive information on how to apply, which courses are available and the entry criteria for each. Applications can usually be made by application form or online, and applicants will generally need to be educated to Bachelors degree standard (or an acceptable equivalent). For some courses a good command of Chinese will be required but many are taught in English.

When applying, applicants may also need to supply additional information such as copies of academic certificates, financial statements, health information and letters of recommendation. Closing dates for applications vary so check with individual institutions.

Fees and scholarships

Some scholarships may be available for postgraduate study and further details can be obtained from the Ministry of Education, Taiwan . There may also be some pre-degree Mandarin language training assistance available to help recipients to improve their language ability. Information on eligibility criteria and application procedures is available from the Ministry of Education website.

Are there any exchange programmes?

Some exchange programmes do exist for international students and details can be found on the web pages of specific colleges and universities.

Will my qualifications be recognised in the UK?

Qualifications may be recognised for acceptance into a wide variety of jobs in the UK. Further information can be obtained from organisations such as professional bodies or equivalence information services, such as UK NARIC (National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom)  and ENIC-NARIC .