Education System in Taiwan

Taiwan, an island nation located in East Asia, is known for its rich cultural heritage and dynamic economic development. The country comprises the main island, which is approximately 13,808 square miles in size, along with several smaller islands. Taiwan’s historical context includes its establishment as a protectorate of the Chinese Empire in the early 13th century and the founding of the Republic of China in 1912 by Dr. Sun Yat-sen. Since then, Taiwan has developed a robust education system that emphasizes accessibility and quality, evolving significantly since World War II.

Overview of the Education System

Taiwan's education system is designed to provide a comprehensive framework that supports students from their early years through higher education. The system emphasizes not only academic achievement but also character development. While it has faced criticism for its reliance on rote memorization, the vast majority of students continue their education beyond the compulsory stages. The framework is structured into several levels, each building on the foundation set by the previous one.

Primary Education

Duration

• 6 Years

Compulsory Subjects

• English (mandatory)
• A broad range of subjects that often surpass those offered in many developing nations.

Following the completion of 9 years of mandatory education (comprising primary and junior high school), approximately 95% of students proceed to further educational levels.

Middle Education

Duration

• 3 Years (Junior High School)

Focus

• Emphasis on achieving high scores to enable future educational opportunities.
• Extended study hours, with some students attending classes until 8 PM.

Curriculum

• Literature
• Mathematics
• English Language
• Science and Technology
• Social Studies
• Civics
• History
• Geography

At the end of junior high school, students are assigned to senior high schools based on their performance in the national senior high school entrance examination.

Secondary Education

Duration

• 3 Years (Senior High School)

Goals

• Prepare students for university entrance.

Discipline

• Managed by military officers, which contributes to a low incidence of behavioral issues.

Program Choices

• Students may select between science and liberal arts tracks.

Entrance to universities is contingent upon passing entrance examinations, which may also incorporate recommendations from faculty.

Vocational Education

Duration

• 3 Years (offered alongside senior high school)

Focus

• Emphasis on practical skills tailored to specific careers.

Specializations

• Common fields of study include:
  • Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • Business Methods

Many vocational education graduates also seek to enroll in universities after completing their programs.

Tertiary Education

Taiwan features over 100 institutions of higher education, which include both accredited vocational schools and universities, with a mix of public and private operations.

Popular Fields of Study

• Engineering is the most pursued discipline, accounting for around 25% of all degrees awarded.

Prestigious Universities

• National Taiwan University: A comprehensive university located in northern Taiwan.
• National Chung Hsing University: Situated in central Taiwan, specializing in agriculture and biological sciences.
• National Cheng Kung University: Located in southern Taiwan, known for its engineering, medical, and science programs.

Conclusion

Taiwan's education system is a well-structured framework that provides students with a solid foundation for their future endeavors. With a focus on both academic excellence and practical skills, it prepares individuals for a range of opportunities in higher education and the workforce. The continued emphasis on educational improvement reflects Taiwan's commitment to fostering a knowledgeable and skilled population.