University of Science, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City

The University of Science, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City (HCMUS) is a prominent public research institution in Vietnam, holding a rich history spanning over 80 years since its origins as the Indochina College of Science in 1941 [4, 6]. As a key member of the Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City (VNUHCM) system, HCMUS is committed to being a leading university in Southeast Asia for science education and research, particularly in knowledge-based technology and the digital economy [4].

Its core mission is to serve as a center for higher education, research, development, and application of science and technology, providing crucial human resources and scientific products for socio-economic development [4]. The university strives to equip its students with the necessary knowledge and skills for thriving careers while fostering progress in proficiency and driving economic growth, aspiring to be a benchmark for other universities [4].

With a substantial enrollment of over 17,000 students, HCMUS offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various scientific and technological fields [1, 4]. The institution continuously refines its academic curricula and invests in human resources and facilities to meet societal demands and achieve international accreditation standards [4].

The origins of the University of Science, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City, trace back to 1941 with the establishment of the Indochina College of Science [4, 6]. Over the years, the institution underwent several transformations; in 1953, it was renamed the Faculty of Science, also known as the University of Saigon, and subsequently the Science University of Saigon in 1957 [4, 6].

A significant milestone occurred in 1977 when it merged with the College of Letters to form the University of Ho Chi Minh City [4, 6]. However, its current identity as the University of Science was officially re-established on March 30, 1996, through Decision 1236/GDDT of the Ministry of Education and Training, separating the natural science field from the University of Ho Chi Minh City [4, 6].

Since its re-establishment in 1996, the University of Science has become an affiliated member of the prestigious Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City (VNUHCM) system [4, 6]. This re-foundation marked a new phase, emphasizing its role in public education and pioneering research within the VNUHCM framework, building upon its extensive history and traditions in scientific education [4, 6].

The University of Science, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City, is organized into ten key faculties, offering a comprehensive range of scientific and technological disciplines [4]. These faculties provide both undergraduate and postgraduate education, focusing on fundamental, interdisciplinary, and spearheading science and technology [4].

The faculties include: Mathematics and Computer Science, Information Technology, Physics and Engineering Physics, Electronics and Telecommunications, Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, Environment, Geology, Materials Science and Technology, and Interdisciplinary Sciences [1, 4]. These departments cover diverse fields such as natural sciences, life sciences, mathematics and statistics, computer and information technology, environmental studies, and various engineering specializations [4].

Beyond traditional academic departments, the university also houses two research institutes, eleven specialized research laboratories, four VNUHCM key laboratories, and sixteen research and education centers [4]. These resources support advanced research and innovation, contributing to socio-economic development and community services through scientific practices [4].