Kunsan National University
Global Minds, Local Impact.
📍 Gunsan, South Korea 🇰🇷
🏆 #60 in South Korea
Quick Facts about Kunsan National University
- Type: Public
- Students: 7,205
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $3,900 – $9,900/year
- Language: Korean, English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About Kunsan National University
Academics
KNU provides a wide array of programs across various disciplines including Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Business Administration, and Fisheries & Ocean Science. The university emphasizes a research-driven approach, encouraging both faculty and students to engage in innovative projects that address regional and global challenges. Many programs, particularly at the graduate level, are available in English to accommodate international students. KNU is recognized for its contributions to regional development, especially in engineering, marine sciences, and sustainable technologies.
International Students
The International Office at KNU offers comprehensive support services for international students, including orientation programs, Korean language courses, and administrative assistance. While specific diversity statistics are not readily available, the university actively seeks to attract international students and has partnerships with approximately 150 schools globally. International students can apply for on-campus housing, which provides a safe and convenient living environment. KNU also offers various scholarships to international students, covering partial to full tuition fees, with about 40% of undergraduate and 80% of postgraduate international students receiving such aid.
Campus & Location
Kunsan National University has two campuses: Miryong campus and Saemangeum campus, both located in Gunsan. Gunsan, situated on the west coast of the Korean peninsula, is a city with a unique blend of historical and modern influences, including Japanese colonial architecture and traditional Korean heritage sites. The city is an industrial and economic hub, known for its role in South Korea's shipping, manufacturing, and automotive industries. The campus facilities include well-equipped laboratories, libraries, sports facilities, and student accommodation.
Career Outcomes
KNU's Career Development Center provides resources and support for students seeking employment, including career counseling, resume and interview workshops, and job search assistance. The university's location in an industrially diverse region, particularly near the Gunsan and Saemangeum industrial complexes, offers unique employment and research opportunities in sectors like manufacturing, technology, and maritime industries. Kunsan National University has a strong track record, having been ranked first among large regional universities for graduate employment by the South Korean Ministry of Education in 2011 and 2012. The university aims to cultivate global talent to work in nearby businesses and factories, with a trial program in the Gunsan region allowing student visas to be easily converted into work permits for those employed by local companies.
Information for International Students at Kunsan National University
Kunsan National University in Gunsan, South Korea welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: Korean, English
Admissions Requirements for Kunsan National University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Kunsan National University:
- GPA minimum: 2.64
- Application fee: $50000
- Application deadline: May 31, 2025 (Fall Semester); November (Spring Semester)
Programs at Kunsan National University (28 programs)
Kunsan National University offers 28 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (14)
- Department of Economics (BSc) — 48 months · Korean
This program provides a rigorous understanding of economic theories, quantitative analysis, and policy implications, applicable to various economic sectors.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Market Researcher, Policy Analyst, Financial Consultant - Department of Electrical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
This program covers the design, development, and application of electrical systems, including power generation, electronics, and control systems.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Electronics Designer, Power Systems Engineer, Automation Engineer - Department of Architecture (BSc) — 60 months · Korean · STEM
Students learn architectural design principles, building technology, urban planning, and history, developing skills to create functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces.
Field: Architecture
Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Designer, Interior Designer, Construction Project Manager - Department of Music (BA) — 48 months · Korean
This program offers training in musical performance, composition, theory, and history, fostering artistic talent and academic knowledge in music.
Field: Arts
Career outcomes: Musician, Music Teacher, Composer, Music Producer - Department of Nursing (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
Students are trained to become competent and compassionate nurses, acquiring theoretical knowledge and practical skills in patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Public Health Nurse, Nurse Educator, Clinical Specialist - Department of Fine Arts (BA) — 48 months · Korean
Students explore various artistic mediums and techniques, developing their creative expression and critical understanding of art history and theory.
Field: Arts
Career outcomes: Artist, Art Educator, Gallery Assistant, Illustrator - Department of Civil Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
This program focuses on the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Urban Planner, Construction Manager - Department of Marine Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
Students learn about the design, operation, and maintenance of marine vessels and offshore structures, including propulsion systems and marine power plants.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Marine Engineer, Naval Architect, Offshore Engineer, Shipyard Manager - Department of Computer Science and Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
Students learn fundamental and advanced concepts in computer science, including programming, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering, with practical application.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Network Engineer, AI Engineer - Department of Food Science and Biotechnology (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
This program integrates food science with biotechnology, covering food processing, safety, nutrition, and the application of biotechnological principles to food production.
Field: Agriculture and Food Science
Career outcomes: Food Scientist, Quality Control Manager, Biotechnologist, Product Developer - Department of Business Administration (BSc) — 48 months · Korean
Students gain foundational knowledge in various business functions including marketing, finance, human resources, and operations management, preparing them for diverse corporate roles.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, HR Specialist, Operations Manager - Department of History (BA) — 48 months · Korean
This program offers a comprehensive study of Korean, East Asian, and Western history, emphasizing critical analysis of historical events and their impact.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator, Educator - Department of Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Korean · STEM
Students acquire knowledge in mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science, and manufacturing processes, essential for designing and analyzing mechanical systems.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Automotive Engineer, Aerospace Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer - Department of English Language and Literature (BA) — 48 months · Korean
Students explore English linguistics, British and American literature, and develop advanced English communication skills for global opportunities.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: English Teacher, Translator, International Business, Journalist
Master Programs (10)
- Graduate School of Computer Science and Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
Advanced topics in computer science and engineering, including artificial intelligence, data science, and software development, with a strong research component.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Software Architect, AI Engineer, Data Scientist, Research Scientist - Graduate School of Korean Language and Literature (MA) — 24 months · Korean
Advanced study in Korean linguistics, classical and modern Korean literature, and cultural criticism, culminating in a master's thesis.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: University Lecturer, Researcher, Editor, Cultural Critic - Graduate School of Mechanical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
Advanced study in mechanical design, manufacturing, thermal-fluid sciences, and robotics, with a focus on research and development in mechanical systems.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Design Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Research Engineer, Project Manager - Graduate School of Business Administration (MBA) — 24 months · Korean
This program provides advanced management education, focusing on strategic decision-making, leadership, and global business practices.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Senior Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur, Business Analyst - Graduate School of Electrical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
Specialized study in areas such as power electronics, communication systems, and control theory, preparing students for advanced engineering roles and research.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Electrical Design Engineer, R&D Engineer, System Engineer, Academic Researcher - Graduate Program in Korean Language and Literature (MA) — 24 months · Korean
Advanced study in Korean linguistics, classical and modern Korean literature, and literary criticism, preparing students for research and academic careers.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: University Professor, Researcher, Literary Critic, Editor - Graduate Program in Mechanical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
Advanced research and study in mechanical design, fluid dynamics, robotics, and advanced manufacturing, preparing students for leadership in industry and academia.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Research Engineer, Product Development Engineer, Academic Researcher, Project Manager - Graduate Program in Computer Science and Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
Advanced topics in computer science and engineering, including artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and advanced software development.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: AI Engineer, Data Scientist, Software Architect, Cybersecurity Analyst - Graduate Program in Business Administration (MBA) — 24 months · Korean
This program offers advanced business education with specializations in areas like marketing, finance, and international business, focusing on leadership and strategic management.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Senior Manager, Business Consultant, Entrepreneur, Financial Manager - Graduate Program in Electrical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Korean · STEM
Specialized study in areas such as power electronics, communication systems, embedded systems, and control theory, with a strong research component.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: R&D Engineer, System Designer, Academic Researcher, Consultant
PhD Programs (4)
- PhD in Computer Science and Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
Doctoral research focusing on cutting-edge areas of computer science and engineering, including AI, big data, cybersecurity, and advanced computing architectures.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, R&D Director, Chief Technology Officer - PhD in Marine Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
Advanced doctoral research in marine propulsion, offshore plant engineering, and marine environmental technology, contributing to innovation in the maritime industry.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Marine Engineer, R&D Director, Naval Architect - PhD in Electrical Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
In-depth doctoral research in advanced electrical engineering topics such as renewable energy systems, intelligent control, and advanced communication networks.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, Lead R&D Engineer, Research Scientist, Technical Consultant - PhD in Mechanical Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · Korean · STEM
Doctoral-level research in advanced mechanical engineering, covering areas like advanced materials, computational fluid dynamics, and intelligent manufacturing systems.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Engineer, Innovator, Engineering Consultant
Scholarships & Tuition at Kunsan National University
Annual tuition for international students: $3,900 – $9,900/year
✅ Kunsan National University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Kunsan National University
- National Ranking: #60 in South Korea
- Ranking tier: Unranked
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at Kunsan National University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
Key Highlights
- Diverse academic programs
- Strong research orientation
- Significant international student support
- Global partnerships, extensive scholarships
- Focus on regional development
Accreditation
- Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development
- Korean Council for University Education (KCUE)
- ABEEK (Architecture Engineering, Civil Engineering, IT Convergence Communication Engineering, Materials Engineering, Mechanical Engineering)
Fields of Study at Kunsan National University
- Engineering
- Fisheries
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Natural Sciences
Notable Alumni
- Jin Hee-kyung
- Song Sae-byeok
- Bokyem
- Kim Kwan-young
- Lee Sang-min
Frequently Asked Questions about Kunsan National University
What is Kunsan National University?
Kunsan National University is a public university located in Gunsan, South Korea. It has approximately 7,205 students.
How much does it cost to study at Kunsan National University?
Tuition fees at Kunsan National University for international students range from $3,900 – $9,900/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Kunsan National University?
GPA minimum: 2.64. Application fee: $50000. Application deadline: May 31, 2025 (Fall Semester); November (Spring Semester).
What language are courses taught in at Kunsan National University?
Courses at Kunsan National University are taught in Korean and English.
How many programs does Kunsan National University offer?
Kunsan National University offers 28 programs: 14 Bachelor's, 10 Master's, and 4 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Kunsan National University ranked?
#60 in South Korea.
Does Kunsan National University offer scholarships?
Yes, Kunsan National University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Kunsan National University provide visa support?
Yes, Kunsan National University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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