NTU HIGHLIGHTS

     The academic advising system traces its roots to the 1870s in the United States, when elective courses were first integrated into higher education. This integration prompted universities to develop structured advising systems to guide students through their academic journeys. In 2021, NTU became the first university in Taiwan to adopt this approach, making academic advising a key component of student support services.

     In the U.S., most students enter college without declaring a major. They are assigned academic advisors upon enrollment, who engage in regular consultations with students to help them choose a field of study. In contrast, students in Taiwan are typically admitted directly into specific departments. Thus, NTU’s advising system focuses on helping students clarify their academic direction based on their interests, strengths, and values, and then select the most suitable learning path— whether that involves pursuing a dual major, enrolling in the University Interdisciplinary Bachelor’s Program (UIBP), or complementing their primary major with other Specialization Programs.

    For students interested in UIBP, the Academic Advising Office provides comprehensive support, from program introduction and eligibility assessment to strategies for integrating cross-disciplinary expertise. The office also facilitates peer mentoring by connecting applicants with current UIBP students who share firsthand experiences and insights. To date, the office has assisted more than a hundred students with their applications. The team aspires to foster a supportive environment where students willing to explore interdisciplinary futures can thrive—and transform their boldest academic visions into reality.