Sahmyook University to Establish Dedicated Department for International Students

Strengthening Tailored Education with the Global Liberal Arts Department

Sahmyook University will establish and operate a dedicated "Global Liberal Arts Department" for foreign students starting in the upcoming second semester, as part of efforts to increase international student enrollment. The move is intended to further enhance the global competitiveness of the university’s academic programs.

Foreign Student Welcome Ceremony for the 2025-1 Semester held last April at the Yohan Hall Hong Myungki Hall on campus. Sahmyook University

The Global Liberal Arts Department is a system that allows international students to enroll without declaring a major. During their first year, students undergo intensive liberal arts education tailored to language tracks (Korean or English). In their second year, they may choose a major based on their aptitude and language proficiency. This initiative expands the existing liberal arts system (free major selection) to better suit international students.

The program is designed to alleviate the linguistic and psychological pressure of having to take major courses immediately upon enrollment. It provides international students with time during their first year to explore different majors and naturally adjust to life in Korea. The university expects this system will significantly lower the barriers to studying in Korea.

Additionally, Sahmyook University has developed an academic system tailored to the needs of international students called "SU-GLS (Sahmyook University – Global Liberal Studies)." Language courses such as "College Korean I·II" and "Media Korean I·II" are positioned at the forefront to build foundational academic skills, while K-Content-based social adaptation programs—including "Korean History and Cultural Experience" and "Major Exploration Seminar"—are also incorporated.

Furthermore, a dedicated faculty of coordinators will provide intensive academic and student life counseling to support all aspects of studying abroad and university life.

International students who complete their first year are free to choose their major in their second year. Students in the Korean language track who meet the language requirements of their desired department can select any major. English language track students may choose from one of the six departments currently offering courses in English, including the Department of Artificial Intelligence Convergence, Global Korean Studies, Bio Convergence Engineering, Aviation Tourism and Foreign Languages, and Early Childhood Education.

Park Junbeom, Director of International Affairs at Sahmyook University, stated, "The Global Liberal Arts Department is an innovative academic system designed to maximize international students’ academic achievement and global career potential. We will provide all-around support so that foreign students can overcome language barriers, settle smoothly into Korean society, and grow into global leaders who change the world."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.