VNUK Plans to Expand High-Quality Training in Technology, Engineering, and Artificial Intelligence, Aiming to Become a Public University in Central Vietnam

Vietnam is currently facing the risk of a shortage in science and technology workforce. According to statistics from the Ministry of Education and Training, in 2024, only 9% of university entrants chose engineering and technology majors, while the fields of computer science and information technology accounted for about 12%.

In this context, the Vietnam–UK Institute for Research and Executive Education (VNUK), a member unit of the University of Danang, has been assigned the task of expanding its training programs in key disciplines starting in 2025. The goal is to develop a highly skilled workforce. New majors will focus on microchip industry, artificial intelligence, biomedical technology, and high-quality tourism — all of which are national strategic priorities.

VNUK lecturers prepare teaching materials

Currently, VNUK is focused on four main academic areas. The Economics and Management group includes International Business (with four specializations) and Hotel Management. The Engineering and Technology group includes Computer Science with specializations such as Applied AI, and Computer Engineering with Microchip Design, Embedded Systems, and IoT. The Life Sciences and Health group features majors in Biomedical Science, Materials Technology (specializing in Nanotechnology), and Biotechnology (specializing in Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology).

VNUK offers modern facilities to support teaching and hands-on training for students

All programs at VNUK are delivered in English, with a strong focus on practical application and global integration. Students are equipped with in-depth professional knowledge, critical thinking, soft skills, and adaptability in multicultural environments.

The institute incorporates practical activities, research projects, teamwork, corporate internships, and international exchange semesters into its programs. Students also have the opportunity to work with international faculty on research and transfer to partner institutions in the UK, US, South Korea, Japan, Australia….

Global Culture Showcase – A special highlight for VNUK freshmen

In addition to academics, VNUK also promotes scholarship programs for outstanding students, as well as those from remote areas or difficult backgrounds — reflecting its commitment to equal access and inclusive education.

Established in 2014 as a collaboration between the governments of Vietnam and the United Kingdom, VNUK is one of the first institutions to operate under an international-standard public university model. After 10 years of development, it currently offers 14 undergraduate programs with over 1,200 students, 50 postgraduate students, and nearly 100 staff members — including two associate professors, 15 PhDs, and 38 master’s degree holders. The school also partners with more than 50 domestic and international universities and research institutes.

Speaking at the recent 10th anniversary celebration, Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Vu, President of the University of Danang, shared that the school operates by the motto: “One person can do many jobs, and one job can be done by many people.” He praised VNUK for its steady growth and notable achievements over the past decade.

With the action message “Innovation – Empathy – Perseverance,” VNUK is aiming to improve training quality, scale up its programs, and invest in cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, financial technology, and semiconductor materials. In the near future, VNUK aspires to become the Vietnam–UK International University — the first international-standard public university in Central Vietnam.

3D render of the Vietnam–UK International University, expected to open in 2027

Source: Thai Anh, T. “VNUK mở rộng chương trình đào tạo ngành công nghệ, kỹ thuật.“ VnExpress, July 2025.