Taiwan's Education System

  In Taiwan, the education of its children is an important priority.
  Since 1968, each child is required to receive nine years of compulsory education, beginning at the age of six and continuing for six years of elementary school education and three years of junior high school.

  Upon graduation from junior high school, students can attend either a senior high school or a senior vocational school for three years. More specialized training, beyond the secondary level is provided by five year junior colleges, which students can directly enter, once they have graduated from junior high school. Programs, at these junior colleges will focus on applied sciences and technology.

  Institutions of higher education include two year junior colleges, technical colleges, liberal arts colleges, four year universities and graduate schools. Most university undergraduate programs require four years of study however, students may receive two year extensions, in order to fulfill their undergraduate requirements. Specialized undergraduate programs, like dentistry will require six years to complete, while medical school programs require seven years.

  The universities and colleges in Taiwan offer a wide variety of master's and doctoral programs. Graduate programs leading to a master's degree requires two to four years to complete, while doctoral degrees usually require two to seven years for completion. If a graduate student, is a work-study student, and requires additional time to complete his/her thesis, then an extension will be granted.

  The field of special education includes programs and facilities for gifted children, as well as for those children with special needs, resulting from mental, physical or learning challenges. Mentally and physically challenged students will be able to be admitted to designated schools that are government operated. Resources classes are also provided for blind and deaf students, who attend universities or colleges in Taiwan.

  Supplementary education is also offered to provide alternative ways for Taiwan citizens to achieve the different educational levels, from the elementary to the college level. Students may obtain their bachelor degree through radio, television and correspondence classes that are offered by the Open University.