National Sun Yat-sen University

Southern Brilliance, Global Impact.

📍 Kaohsiung, Taiwan 🇹🇼

🏆 #8 in Taiwan · QS World #439 · THE World #601 · ARWU #601

Quick Facts about National Sun Yat-sen University

  • Type: Public
  • Students: 8,876
  • Campus: Urban
  • Tuition: $3,500 – $6,000/year
  • Language: English, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, French, German, Russian
  • Intakes: Fall, Spring

About National Sun Yat-sen University

National Sun Yat-sen University (NSYSU), established in 1980 in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, is a prominent public research institution named after the founder of the Republic of China, Dr. Sun Yat-sen. It was founded to balance higher education resources, which were previously concentrated in northern Taiwan. NSYSU is recognized for its academic excellence and commitment to balancing humanities, sciences, and technology.

Academics

NSYSU offers a comprehensive range of programs across ten colleges, including Liberal Arts, Sciences, Engineering, Management, Marine Sciences, Social Sciences, Si-Wan, Medicine, Semiconductor and Advanced Technology Research, and International Finance. The university is particularly strong in marine sciences, electrical engineering, business management, and social sciences. NSYSU emphasizes interdisciplinary studies, encouraging students to explore diverse fields and integrate technology to address complex societal issues.

International Students

NSYSU provides a welcoming environment for international students, offering various support services and English-taught programs. The College of Management, for instance, offers English-taught Bachelor's, MBA, and Global Human Resource Management MBA programs. The Office of International Affairs assists with residency procedures, insurance, and provides a 24/7 emergency hotline. The university fosters a multicultural atmosphere with numerous student clubs and organizations. Scholarships and stipends are available for outstanding international students.

Campus & Location

NSYSU boasts a unique and picturesque campus situated in Sizihwan, Kaohsiung, surrounded by mountains and facing the Taiwan Strait. This distinctive location allows for on-campus water sports and is ideal for marine sciences research. Kaohsiung is a major port city in southern Taiwan, known for its pleasant climate and a blend of traditional and contemporary cultures. The campus is easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and the Kaohsiung MRT, with connections to the airport and high-speed rail. Nearby attractions include Sizihwan Bay, Cijin Island, and various cultural sites.

Career Outcomes

NSYSU graduates demonstrate strong employability, with the university ranking highly for graduates' leadership and adaptability. A report by a major Taiwanese job bank indicated that NSYSU graduates ranked first in leadership and adaptability, and among the top five for boldness and ambition. The university maintains strong ties with industry and government, with many faculty members serving as advisors. The College of Management's Executive MBA program, the only one in Taiwan to be ranked in the Financial Times' Top 100, showed a 53% salary increase for alumni three years after graduation. Career services and job fairs are available to students.

Information for International Students at National Sun Yat-sen University

National Sun Yat-sen University in Kaohsiung, Taiwan welcomes international students.

  • Visa support available
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available (~$4500/month)
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: English, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, French, German, Russian

Admissions Requirements for National Sun Yat-sen University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to National Sun Yat-sen University:

  • IELTS minimum: 5
  • TOEFL minimum: 61
  • Duolingo minimum: 95
  • GPA minimum: 2.44
  • Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)
  • Application deadline: Fall: March 15th/ Spring: September 30th

Apply to National Sun Yat-sen University →

Programs at National Sun Yat-sen University (34 programs)

National Sun Yat-sen University offers 34 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (10)

  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · STEM
    This program integrates mechanical and electrical engineering principles, focusing on the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems with electronic components.
    Field: Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering
    Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Automation Engineer, Product Design Engineer
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · STEM
    This program provides a strong foundation in electrical engineering principles, including circuits, electronics, power systems, and signal processing, preparing students for diverse engineering roles.
    Field: Electrical Engineering
    Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Power Systems Engineer, Telecommunications Engineer
  • Bachelor of Science in Physics (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · STEM
    This program provides a fundamental understanding of the laws of nature, covering classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics, preparing students for scientific careers.
    Field: Physics
    Career outcomes: Physicist, Research Assistant, Data Analyst, Science Educator
  • Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · STEM
    This program provides a comprehensive understanding of chemical principles, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, preparing students for careers in chemical industries and research.
    Field: Chemistry
    Career outcomes: Chemist, Laboratory Technician, Quality Control Specialist, Research Assistant
  • Bachelor of Arts in Chinese Literature (BA) — 48 months · Chinese
    This program offers an in-depth study of classical and modern Chinese literature, language, and culture, developing critical thinking and appreciation for Chinese heritage.
    Field: Chinese Literature
    Career outcomes: Teacher, Editor, Writer, Cultural Affairs Specialist
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · STEM
    This program integrates mechanical and electrical engineering principles, focusing on the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems with electronic components.
    Field: Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering
    Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Automation Engineer, Product Design Engineer
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · STEM
    This program provides a strong foundation in electrical engineering principles, including circuits, electronics, power systems, and signal processing, preparing students for diverse engineering roles.
    Field: Electrical Engineering
    Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Hardware Engineer, Power Systems Engineer, Telecommunications Engineer
  • Bachelor of Science in Physics (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · STEM
    This program provides a fundamental understanding of the laws of nature, covering classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics, preparing students for scientific careers.
    Field: Physics
    Career outcomes: Physicist, Research Assistant, Data Analyst, Science Educator
  • Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · STEM
    This program provides a comprehensive understanding of chemical principles, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, preparing students for careers in chemical industries and research.
    Field: Chemistry
    Career outcomes: Chemist, Laboratory Technician, Quality Control Specialist, Research Assistant
  • Bachelor of Arts in Chinese Literature (BA) — 48 months · Chinese
    This program offers an in-depth study of classical and modern Chinese literature, language, and culture, developing critical thinking and appreciation for Chinese heritage.
    Field: Chinese Literature
    Career outcomes: Teacher, Editor, Writer, Cultural Affairs Specialist

Master Programs (12)

  • Master of Arts in Foreign Languages and Literature (MA) — 24 months · English
    This master's program offers advanced study in specific foreign languages, literary theory, and cultural analysis, preparing students for academic careers or specialized roles in international communication.
    Field: Foreign Languages and Literature
    Career outcomes: University Lecturer, Editor, Cultural Attaché, International Project Manager
  • Master of Science in Physics (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This master's program offers advanced study in theoretical and experimental physics, with specializations in areas such as condensed matter physics, optics, and particle physics.
    Field: Physics
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Lecturer, R&D Engineer, Quantitative Analyst
  • Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This master's program offers advanced specialization in areas such as integrated circuits, optoelectronics, and biomedical electronics, fostering expertise for high-tech industries.
    Field: Electrical Engineering
    Career outcomes: R&D Engineer, Design Engineer, System Architect, Project Manager
  • Master of Science in Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This master's program provides advanced knowledge in areas such as advanced robotics, intelligent manufacturing, and micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), preparing students for specialized engineering roles.
    Field: Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering
    Career outcomes: R&D Engineer, Robotics Specialist, Automation Consultant, System Integration Engineer
  • Master of Arts in Chinese Literature (MA) — 24 months · Chinese
    This master's program provides advanced research opportunities in specific periods or genres of Chinese literature, literary theory, and comparative studies, preparing students for academic or cultural roles.
    Field: Chinese Literature
    Career outcomes: University Lecturer, Researcher, Archivist, Cultural Heritage Manager
  • Master of Science in Chemistry (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This master's program offers advanced study and research opportunities in specialized areas of chemistry, such as materials chemistry, biochemistry, and environmental chemistry.
    Field: Chemistry
    Career outcomes: Research Chemist, Product Development Scientist, Analytical Specialist, Process Engineer
  • Master of Arts in Foreign Languages and Literature (MA) — 24 months · English
    This master's program offers advanced study in specific foreign languages, literary theory, and cultural analysis, preparing students for academic careers or specialized roles in international communication.
    Field: Foreign Languages and Literature
    Career outcomes: University Lecturer, Editor, Cultural Attaché, International Project Manager
  • Master of Science in Physics (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This master's program offers advanced study in theoretical and experimental physics, with specializations in areas such as condensed matter physics, optics, and particle physics.
    Field: Physics
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Lecturer, R&D Engineer, Quantitative Analyst
  • Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This master's program offers advanced specialization in areas such as integrated circuits, optoelectronics, and biomedical electronics, fostering expertise for high-tech industries.
    Field: Electrical Engineering
    Career outcomes: R&D Engineer, Design Engineer, System Architect, Project Manager
  • Master of Science in Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This master's program provides advanced knowledge in areas such as advanced robotics, intelligent manufacturing, and micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS), preparing students for specialized engineering roles.
    Field: Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering
    Career outcomes: R&D Engineer, Robotics Specialist, Automation Consultant, System Integration Engineer
  • Master of Arts in Chinese Literature (MA) — 24 months · Chinese
    This master's program provides advanced research opportunities in specific periods or genres of Chinese literature, literary theory, and comparative studies, preparing students for academic or cultural roles.
    Field: Chinese Literature
    Career outcomes: University Lecturer, Researcher, Archivist, Cultural Heritage Manager
  • Master of Science in Chemistry (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
    This master's program offers advanced study and research opportunities in specialized areas of chemistry, such as materials chemistry, biochemistry, and environmental chemistry.
    Field: Chemistry
    Career outcomes: Research Chemist, Product Development Scientist, Analytical Specialist, Process Engineer

PhD Programs (12)

  • PhD in Foreign Languages and Literature (PhD) — 48 months · English
    The PhD program fosters independent research in foreign languages, literature, and cultural studies, leading to original contributions to scholarship and preparing graduates for academic leadership.
    Field: Foreign Languages and Literature
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Cultural Policy Advisor, Academic Editor
  • PhD in Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
    The PhD program focuses on pioneering research in advanced mechanical and electro-mechanical systems, including smart materials, autonomous systems, and sustainable manufacturing processes.
    Field: Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Lead Research Scientist, Advanced Product Developer, Engineering Consultant
  • PhD in Electrical Engineering (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
    The PhD program in Electrical Engineering focuses on cutting-edge research and innovation in areas like advanced semiconductor devices, smart grids, and artificial intelligence applications in electrical systems.
    Field: Electrical Engineering
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Engineer, Chief Technology Officer, Patent Engineer
  • PhD in Chemistry (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
    The PhD program in Chemistry focuses on original and independent research, pushing the boundaries of chemical knowledge in areas like drug discovery, sustainable chemistry, and advanced materials.
    Field: Chemistry
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Scientist, R&D Director, Patent Examiner
  • PhD in Physics (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
    The PhD program in Physics focuses on original research at the forefront of physics, allowing students to contribute new knowledge in fields like quantum information, materials science, and cosmology.
    Field: Physics
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Lead Research Scientist, Accelerator Physicist, Data Scientist
  • PhD in Chinese Literature (PhD) — 48 months · Chinese
    The PhD program in Chinese Literature focuses on original and significant research contributions to the field, fostering advanced scholarship and critical analysis of Chinese literary traditions.
    Field: Chinese Literature
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Fellow, Curator, Cultural Policy Advisor
  • PhD in Foreign Languages and Literature (PhD) — 48 months · English
    The PhD program fosters independent research in foreign languages, literature, and cultural studies, leading to original contributions to scholarship and preparing graduates for academic leadership.
    Field: Foreign Languages and Literature
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Cultural Policy Advisor, Academic Editor
  • PhD in Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
    The PhD program focuses on pioneering research in advanced mechanical and electro-mechanical systems, including smart materials, autonomous systems, and sustainable manufacturing processes.
    Field: Mechanical and Electro-Mechanical Engineering
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Lead Research Scientist, Advanced Product Developer, Engineering Consultant
  • PhD in Electrical Engineering (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
    The PhD program in Electrical Engineering focuses on cutting-edge research and innovation in areas like advanced semiconductor devices, smart grids, and artificial intelligence applications in electrical systems.
    Field: Electrical Engineering
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Engineer, Chief Technology Officer, Patent Engineer
  • PhD in Chemistry (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
    The PhD program in Chemistry focuses on original and independent research, pushing the boundaries of chemical knowledge in areas like drug discovery, sustainable chemistry, and advanced materials.
    Field: Chemistry
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Scientist, R&D Director, Patent Examiner
  • PhD in Physics (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
    The PhD program in Physics focuses on original research at the forefront of physics, allowing students to contribute new knowledge in fields like quantum information, materials science, and cosmology.
    Field: Physics
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Lead Research Scientist, Accelerator Physicist, Data Scientist
  • PhD in Chinese Literature (PhD) — 48 months · Chinese
    The PhD program in Chinese Literature focuses on original and significant research contributions to the field, fostering advanced scholarship and critical analysis of Chinese literary traditions.
    Field: Chinese Literature
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Fellow, Curator, Cultural Policy Advisor

Scholarships & Tuition at National Sun Yat-sen University

Annual tuition for international students: $3,500 – $6,000/year

✅ National Sun Yat-sen University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of National Sun Yat-sen University

  • National Ranking: #8 in Taiwan
  • QS World University Ranking: #439
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #601
  • Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #601
  • Ranking tier: Top 500
  • Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at National Sun Yat-sen University

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • No disability support info
  • Campus type: Urban
  • Housing cost: ~$4500/month

Key Highlights

  • Coastal campus, marine research hub
  • Prominent southern Taiwan university
  • Strong in marine, engineering, business
  • Welcoming international student environment
  • Interdisciplinary studies focus

Accreditation

  • AACSB
  • CFA Institute

Fields of Study at National Sun Yat-sen University

  • Engineering
  • Marine Science
  • Management
  • Liberal Arts
  • Social Sciences

Notable Alumni

  • Chen Chu
  • Chiu Chih-wei
  • Ting-Peng Liang
  • Sven Huang
  • Anna Liu

Frequently Asked Questions about National Sun Yat-sen University

What is National Sun Yat-sen University?

National Sun Yat-sen University is a public university located in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. It has approximately 8,876 students.

How much does it cost to study at National Sun Yat-sen University?

Tuition fees at National Sun Yat-sen University for international students range from $3,500 – $6,000/year. Student housing costs approximately $4500/month. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for National Sun Yat-sen University?

IELTS minimum: 5. TOEFL minimum: 61. Duolingo minimum: 95. GPA minimum: 2.44. Selectivity: Selective (20-40%). Application deadline: Fall: March 15th/ Spring: September 30th.

What language are courses taught in at National Sun Yat-sen University?

Courses at National Sun Yat-sen University are taught in English and Mandarin Chinese and Japanese and Korean and Spanish and French and German and Russian. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 5.

How many programs does National Sun Yat-sen University offer?

National Sun Yat-sen University offers 34 programs: 10 Bachelor's, 12 Master's, and 12 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is National Sun Yat-sen University ranked?

#8 in Taiwan · QS World #439 · THE World #601 · ARWU #601.

Does National Sun Yat-sen University offer scholarships?

Yes, National Sun Yat-sen University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does National Sun Yat-sen University provide visa support?

Yes, National Sun Yat-sen University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.

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