Introduction
When it comes to the terms “đại học” and “trường đại học,” it may seem like there is no difference in language. However, according to the Higher Education Law, these two concepts are distinct from each other. In this article, we will explore the disparities between the two and shed light on the relevance of expertise, authority, credibility, and experience (E-E-A-T) and your experience with the product you write (YMYL) principles in establishing a credible source of information.
The Definitions
As per Article 4 of the 2012 Education Law, which was amended and supplemented in 2018, a “trường đại học” or “university” refers to an educational institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and research programs, organized according to the regulations outlined in the law. On the other hand, “đại học” or “higher education” signifies an educational institution that provides diverse disciplines of higher education, following the stipulations of the same law. These higher education institutions work collectively to achieve common goals, missions, and responsibilities.
The Requirements for Transitioning
According to Decree 99/2019/NĐ-CP, which details and guides the implementation of certain provisions of the amended Education Law, universities must meet four conditions to transition from a “trường đại học” to a “đại học.”
- The university must be recognized as meeting the quality standards for higher education by a legally accredited educational quality assessment organization.
- It should have a minimum of three affiliated universities and at least ten doctoral programs, with a regular student enrollment of 15,000 or more.
- Approval must be obtained from the direct management agency – for public universities – or from at least 75% of the representative investors in the case of private universities.
- The university needs to draft an organizational and operational regulation, jointly developed by the affiliated universities, outlining shared objectives and missions. Additionally, it must define rules regarding organization, finance, assets, and any other relevant aspects.
The Distinction and Inclusion
To summarize, a “trường đại học” is an educational institution that offers a diverse range of undergraduate and research programs, in accordance with the 2012 Education Law, amended in 2018. On the other hand, “đại học” encompasses multiple higher education institutions and various educational establishments. Additionally, higher education institutions offer programs in different fields, each containing multiple disciplines. The head of a “đại học” institution holds the position of director, whereas a “trường đại học” is headed by a rector.
Examples in Vietnam
In Vietnam, besides the National University of Hanoi, the National University of Ho Chi Minh City, and the three regional universities – the University of Da Nang, the University of Hue, and the University of Thai Nguyen – the Hanoi University of Science and Technology is referred to as a “đại học” rather than a “trường đại học.”
The organizational structure of the aforementioned national universities includes member universities, faculties, centers, and affiliated research institutes. National universities serve as centers for multi-disciplinary, high-quality scientific research and technological education, prioritized for investment and development by the state. They possess a high degree of autonomy in education, scientific research, finance, international relations, and institutional organization. The state’s management of national universities falls under the purview of the Ministry of Education and Training, as well as other relevant ministries, departments, and local authorities where the national universities are located. National universities directly work with ministries, equivalent agencies, government agencies, and provincial or centrally-run city people’s committees to address matters related to national universities. When necessary, the director of a national university reports to the prime minister on issues pertaining to the university’s activities and development. The chairman of the National University Council and the directors and deputy directors of national universities are appointed and relieved of their duties by the prime minister.
Several prominent universities in Vietnam, such as the Can Tho University and the Ho Chi Minh City University of Economics, are planning to develop into “đại học” institutions with multiple affiliated universities, faculties, departments, and research institutes. Similarly, the Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy and the Hanoi Medical University are also working towards transitioning into health-focused “đại học” institutions with multiple affiliated universities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the distinction between “đại học” and “trường đại học” is crucial. While “trường đại học” refers to an individual educational institution offering various undergraduate and research programs, “đại học” encompasses multiple higher education institutions. By following the E-E-A-T and YMYL principles, we can establish ourselves as credible sources of information, providing valuable insights to our readers.
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