Dimension 1: Thought, Civilization and History

The driving forces behind the evolution of civilizations stem from breakthroughs in human ideas and theories, as well as the concrete actions through which these ideas are realized. Throughout history, people in different geographical environments have explored fundamental questions about the universe and human life, formed customs and cultures, developed civilizations, and established national institutions. Thought and history together shape humanity’s position within the fabric of time and space.

Understanding abstract concepts and theories, and engaging in deep reflection and critique, belongs to the realm of philosophical thinking. Immersing oneself in this process helps individuals grasp the root questions of existence and cultivate independent thinking. Grasping humanity’s concrete actions, meanwhile, requires analyzing civilizations and history. Through the study of historical figures, events, and cultural development, students are encouraged to develop empathetic analytical abilities and sound judgment in distinguishing truth from falsehood.

The courses under this Dimension are designed based on these guiding principles. They aim to help students discern the meaning of human action through the study of thought, and appreciate the value of thought through the analysis of history.

Courses offered include:

【Critical Thinking】【Value and Practice】【Knowledge and Reality】【Interdisciplinary Thinking and Practice】【Classics of Eastern Thought】【How to learn and think history series】【Historical Fieldwork series】【History and the World series】【History and World series】【World Civilizations】【Historical Classics series】

Dimension 2: Life, Nature, and Technology

Science and technology are powerful forces driving the advancement of human civilization. Through them, humanity is able to explore and understand the origins and nature of the universe and of life itself. Technological applications and developments have enriched human understanding across physiological, psychological, natural, environmental, and ecological dimensions, greatly improving quality of life and creating new forms of well-being.

Yet the development of technology can also run counter to the laws of nature and the principles of coexistence among all living things. It may give rise to problems that violate human nature and ethics, lead to over-extraction of natural resources, or cause environmental pollution, issues that overlook the essential values of coexistence and mutual flourishing among technology, humanity, and the earth.

In light of these concerns, the courses under this Dimension aim to cultivate forward-looking and broad scientific knowledge and technological literacy. Students are guided to understand the processes, historical contexts, and future prospects of technological development, and to critically assess and reflect on the benefits and drawbacks that current or emerging technologies may have on society and the living environment. The curriculum emphasizes both knowledge acquisition and real-life application, enabling students to construct multi-layered knowledge networks and apply what they learn in their daily lives.

Courses offered include:

【Eco-system and Global Changes】【Contemporary Cognitive Neuroscience: Brain and Mind】【Contemporary Life Sciences】【Math. and Scientific Thinking】【Statistical Thinking and Analysis】【The Scientific Revolution】【Technology and Society】【Introduction to the History of Pre-Modern Science】【Logical Thinking of Informatics】【Contemporary Scientific Civilization】【History of Science and Technology】【Psychology and Modern Life】(renamed Exploring Minds and Behaviors: Contemporary Psychology starting from AY 2022 (111), Spring Semester)

Dimension 3: Arts, Literature and Innovative Design

Since ancient times, art and literature have been essential means through which human beings express emotions and convey meaning. They also represent the concrete manifestation of two vital human capacities: aesthetic appreciation and creative imagination. Aesthetic sensibility and artistic literacy enrich one’s quality of life. In recent years, as aesthetic value and creative design have contributed increasing added value to various products, both software and hardware, art and literature have become fields actively promoted by many nations in the development of “cultural economies” and “creative industries.”

Today, the creative energy of the arts is not only a wellspring of immense economic potential, but also an important form of cultural capital for any country. In response to this global trend, the curriculum in this Dimension adopts a dual approach, balancing both theory and practice.

On one hand, students are introduced to a wide range of works—literature, visual arts, music, dance, theatre, film, as well as new media and technological art—along with related aesthetic theories, stylistic movements, and creative discourses. These courses aim to broaden students’ aesthetic horizons, stimulate creative inspiration, and enhance their ability to appreciate and analyze artistic works.

On the other hand, the program provides fundamental training in design thinking, creative methodologies, and expressive techniques. Through reflection on contemporary human challenges, participation in social activities, and engagement with industry practices, students are encouraged to connect their imagination and creativity with the realities of the modern world.

Courses offered include:

【Introduction to the Arts series】【Arts and Society】【Culture and Creativity series】【Art Classics】【Classic Canons】

Dimension 4: Citizen, Society and the World

As modern citizens, individuals should possess the knowledge and abilities to understand themselves, navigate interpersonal relationships, comprehend the connections between the individual and society, and establish meaningful links with the world. These competencies enable people to adapt to contemporary social environments and grasp the dynamics of global change.

The courses in this Dimension aim to guide students, progressing from the near to the distant, from the personal to the global, to understand themselves, their interpersonal relations, their social group affiliations, and their connections to the nation and the world. Students are encouraged to recognize the multilayered and multi-role nature of citizenship, and to deepen their understanding of diverse societies, cultures, and global contexts.

This Dimension seeks to help students reflect on the meaning and responsibilities of being a citizen, to develop communication and expression skills, and to strengthen their abilities in observation, analysis, critical reflection, and evaluation of public issues as well as contemporary social and global institutions, phenomena, values, and cultures. In doing so, the curriculum not only cultivates modern civic literacy, but also broadens students’ perspectives, equipping them to become future leaders in society.

The courses under this Dimension address topics in psychology, sociology, gender studies, political science, economics, law, education, and communication. The curriculum integrates both theory and practice, offering both discipline-specific and interdisciplinary courses. It emphasizes issue-based and case-based learning, and highlights communication, discussion, and critical inquiry throughout the learning process.

Courses offered include:

【Understanding & Rethinking Media】【Civil Society and Constitutional Democracy】【Social and Cultural Analysis】【Global Political Economy】【Psychoanalysis of Group】【Economics course series】【Classics course series】【Psychology and Modern Life】(renamed Exploring Minds and Behaviors: Contemporary Psychology starting from AY 2022 (111), Spring Semester)