Ho Chi Minh City University of Social Sciences and Humanities

The Ho Chi Minh City University of Social Sciences and Humanities (HCMUSSH) is a prominent public higher education institution located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. As a member of the Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City system, it stands as a significant center for training and basic scientific research in the social sciences and humanities in Southern Vietnam [1]. The university offers a wide array of programs at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, fostering a diverse academic environment.

Established in 1957, HCMUSSH has grown to accommodate approximately 22,000 students across 28 undergraduate and 38 postgraduate programs, alongside over 10 joint international programs [1, 4]. The institution is recognized for its pioneering efforts in introducing new academic disciplines that cater to evolving societal demands [1, 4].

With a strong commitment to academic excellence, 98.4% of its academic staff hold professorial titles or postgraduate degrees, contributing to its reputation as a leading institution in the social sciences and humanities field in Vietnam [4]. The university also attracts a significant number of international students, further enriching its vibrant academic community [1].

The origins of the Ho Chi Minh City University of Social Sciences and Humanities can be traced back to the College of Letters, University of Saigon, which was officially established on March 1, 1957 [1]. Following the national reunification in April 1976, the College of Letters merged with the College of Science to form The University of Ho Chi Minh City, becoming a major training and research hub in Southern Vietnam [1]. During this period, the former College of Letters functioned as the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities within the unified university.

A significant milestone in the university's history occurred on March 30, 1996. Under Decision No. 1233/QĐ-BGD&ĐT of the Ministry of Education and Training, the College of Letters was separated from The University of Ho Chi Minh City and officially renamed the University of Social Sciences and Humanities [1]. This marked a new era of autonomy and focused development for the institution in the fields of social sciences and humanities.

Since its re-establishment, HCMUSSH has continued to evolve, strengthening its position as a key academic and research center. In October 2021, the university further asserted its independence by officially claiming autonomy in its development strategy, allowing it greater flexibility in shaping its future academic and research endeavors [1].

Ho Chi Minh City University of Social Sciences and Humanities offers a comprehensive range of disciplines within the social sciences and humanities, structured across various faculties and departments. These include core areas such as Philosophy, Literature, History, Geography, and Sociology, providing foundational knowledge in human thought, culture, and societal structures [1, 4].

The university is also recognized for its specialized programs addressing contemporary societal needs. Notable faculties and departments encompass fields like Oriental Studies, Vietnamese Studies, Anthropology, International Relations, and Urban Studies, reflecting the institution's commitment to regional and global understanding, and addressing modern urban challenges [1, 4]. Additionally, it offers diverse language and literature programs including English, Spanish, Italian, Russian, French, Chinese, and German Linguistics and Literature, fostering multilingual proficiency and cultural appreciation [1, 4].

Beyond traditional disciplines, HCMUSSH features faculties dedicated to Education, Library and Information Studies, Psychology, Social Work, Journalism and Communication, and Tourism, equipping students with practical skills and knowledge for a variety of professional paths. The university also pioneers programs in fields like Sino – Nom, Ho Chi Minh Studies, and Archaeology, highlighting its unique contributions to Vietnamese heritage and research [4].