On Tuesday, 21 April 2026, a discussion meeting was held regarding the possibility of establishing Double Degree, Joint Degree, Fast Track, and other collaborative programs between UNPAR and HBNU. The meeting was attended by representatives from HBNU and representatives from UNPAR, including Prof. Seo, Mr. Reinard as Director of International Office, Ms. Icha as International Office Manager, Mr. Leo, and Ardy.
The meeting focused on strengthening international academic collaboration and exploring strategic opportunities for student mobility, joint academic programs, and research partnerships between both institutions. One of the major topics discussed was the development of Double Degree, Joint Degree, and Fast Track programs across several faculties at UNPAR. It was highlighted that the Civil Engineering Department already maintains international collaborations with Shih Chien University in Taiwan, a Fast Track program with National University of Singapore, and a Master’s Degree collaboration with Tunghai University. In line with this, UNPAR’s Civil Engineering Department is expected to further develop inbound programs, particularly short courses that allow students to receive transferable academic credits.
The discussion also covered potential academic schemes for other study programs. A possible 3+1 or 2-1-1 scheme was proposed for the Business Administration program, while Fast Track opportunities were suggested for the Faculty of Science, including Physics, Informatics, Mathematics, and Electrical Engineering. The proposed Fast Track model discussed was a 3.5 + 1.5 scheme, although further confirmation is still required as the current structure is designed for local Korean students. Another important point emphasized during the meeting was the increasing importance of English-taught Engineering programs, particularly at the master’s degree level, in order to support broader international collaboration and student participation.
HBNU also shared its experiences in conducting international short-course collaborations with universities in Thailand and Japan through hybrid learning schemes consisting of one week of online learning followed by one week of offline activities. In addition, HBNU introduced its Credit-Based Global Capstone collaborations with institutions such as Nanyang Technological University, universities in Shandong, China, and institutions in Kagawa and Yamanashi, Japan. UNPAR was also informed about the opportunity to join the Global Collaboration League, which may open wider possibilities for international academic engagement and interdisciplinary collaboration.
The discussion additionally highlighted the role of the National Research Foundation (NRF) in Korea, which manages research funding opportunities and may potentially support future collaborative research initiatives between both institutions. As a follow-up to the meeting, further academic information and course details from HBNU will be explored and coordinated with relevant departments at UNPAR, particularly Informatics, to identify the most feasible collaboration schemes moving forward.
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