Should you study abroad in Taiwan?

Sponsored by Chang Jung Christian University  

Taiwan has a lot to offer as a study destination. In addition to being friendly and welcoming to international students, it boasts a good standard of living and a safe environment to enjoy a high-quality education.  

Due to its consistently high economic growth, it is also part of one of the four ‘tiger economies’, along with South Korea, Singapore and Hong Kong SAR. 

Chang Jung Christian University (CJCU) is one of the 26 Taiwanese universities featuring in the most recent QS World University Rankings. Located in the Gueiren District in southern Taiwan’s Tainan city, CJCU is a private university which promotes a democratic and liberal academic atmosphere, championing creative thinking and international perspectives.  

Here are five ways to know whether you should study abroad in Taiwan: 

You want to learn a new language 

In Taiwan, Mandarin Chinese is the official language and is spoken by around 70 percent of the population.  

Although it is possible to get by in Taiwan without speaking any Mandarin, Chang Jung Christian University’s Chinese Language and Cultural Centre offers students the opportunity to learn Mandarin however it suits them, with options to study online or in person with one-to-one tutor sessions. 

Many institutions, including Chang Jung Christian University, also offer the possibility to study study some their programmes in English, with an opportunity to learn Mandarin.  

You want to study at an environmentally responsible location 

Taiwan is home to stunning natural landscapes and lush greenery. While you’ll find white sand beaches in the south, you’ll discover incredible volcanic mountains in the north and tropical forests along the coasts. Despite its appeal as a holiday destination, Taiwan’s landscape is unspoiled by mass tourism and there’s a strong emphasis on sustainable practises which are designed to keep it this way. 

For example, Taiwan has established the Shalun Smart Green Energy Science City. This green city aims to promote the use and development of sustainable energy and integrate green energy technology. It serves as a model city, allowing research and development to take place and demonstrating how green energy can be utilised in Taiwan to aid the transition to sustainable living. 

CJCU also places a strong emphasis on educating students about the importance of sustainability. It aims to be a socially responsible university. 

The university’s department of green energy and environmental resource serves as a source of expertise on sustainable development. It aims to help student develop the professional skills needed to make a difference in the community and have a sustainable career. 

CJCU’s Jane Goodall’s Roots and Shoots Eco-center reflects the university’s strategy to expand its international perspective and provide sustainable education for everyone, providing an understanding of different cultures and encouraging people to take action to make the world a better place, both socially and environmentally. 

The university has cooperated with the Jane Goodall Institute to develop the International Programme for Sustainable Development (IPSD), a bachelor’s degree which places a focus on solving real world environmental problems and equipping students with knowledge of environmental sustainability, civil action, international affairs and cultural diversity.  

You’re looking to explore a new area 

Taiwan boasts excellent transport links, with a developed and modern metro system, Taiwan High Speed Rail (HSR) trains and city buses making it easy to travel between Taiwan’s major cities.  

For students looking to explore other locations in eastern Asia, Taiwan has two international airports: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport and Kaohsiung International Airport. Both airports have links to the HSR and there are also shuttle buses that go directly to the airports, so students can easily reach them without a car.  

Fascinating culture 

Taiwan’s culture is a unique combination of traditional and conservative. This is reflected in its architecture, with ancient temples and palaces juxtaposed with modern skyscrapers, such as the famous Taipei 101 tower. 

Taiwan has a democratic society centred on the importance of family and education. It is an inclusive, diverse study destination, with the number of international students increasing each decade. For example, in 2011 there were 57,000 international students studying in Taiwan and this rose to 128,000 in 2019.  

Literature, architecture and art also play a large part in Taiwanese culture. Students will experience literary arts and folk festivals, lively night markets and music festivals. There are plenty of museums, showcasing Taiwan’s history, and performance venues offering theatre and music performances.  

You’re looking for a study destination with a good standard of living  

Taiwan has exceptional hospitality and liveability. It has high levels of education, a good healthcare system and low levels of crime. The local people are generally known for being very welcoming, helpful and friendly. 

In fact, the Global Peace Index recently ranked Taiwan as the 30th most peaceful location out of 163 locations around the world, due to its low level of internal conflict and a high level of safety and security. 

All of this makes Taiwan the perfect east Asian study abroad destination.