International Master Program of Asia and China Studies, IMPACS

Academic Requirements

Courses

A minimum of 24 credits is required to complete the program, which includes one core (and compulsory) 3 credits course. This does not include 6 additional credits for thesis writing. Students will complete 30 credits in total.

Thesis Advisor

Students should choose a thesis advisor before the end of the first year of studies. Students may choose an external or non-NCHU faculty member as thesis advisor upon receiving approval from the program director.

Thesis Topic

The thesis must be completed in English. Students are required to submit their thesis topics for formal approval by the program before the end of the first year. The thesis topic application form should be signed by the advisor and submitted to the academic committee for review.

Proposal Review

Before commencing on the thesis, students are required to complete an oral defense of the proposal. The defense committee consists of the advisor and two other qualified members recommended by the advisor. Proposal defense and thesis defense cannot be carried out in the same semester.

Academic Presentation

Before the thesis defense, students are required to openly present in English at least twice at academic conferences. At least one of the presented paper should be related to the thesis.

Participation in Academic Events

Students must attend and participate in at least 10 academic events on and off campus.

Thesis Defense

Students become qualified to apply for thesis defense after meeting the conditions set out above. The defense committee consists of three to five members including the advisor. At least one third of the committee should consist of full time faculty from NCHU. External members should account for no less than one third of all members. Committee members are recommended by the advisor and approved by the academic committee of the program. The university president provides the formal invitation for members to attend the thesis defense.