Ulsan National Institute of Science & Technology (UNIST)

Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) is a prestigious national research university located in Ulsan, South Korea’s industrial capital. Founded in 2009 with a mission to foster future leaders in science and technology, UNIST has quickly risen to prominence as one of Korea’s most innovative and globally-oriented universities.

UNIST operates under the vision of “First in Change,” aiming to lead transformative changes in science, technology, and education. As part of this mission, UNIST places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research, entrepreneurship, and collaboration with industry. The university has a unique academic structure that encourages convergence among various disciplines, especially in emerging fields such as energy engineering, biomedical science, artificial intelligence, robotics, materials science, and climate science.

One of the most distinctive features of UNIST is its English-only policy for all undergraduate and most graduate courses. This approach not only enhances global competitiveness but also attracts talented students and researchers from around the world. As a result, UNIST hosts a diverse and vibrant international community, fostering a truly global learning environment.

UNIST is home to numerous world-class research centers and institutes, including the Institute for Basic Science (IBS) research centers, which conduct cutting-edge fundamental research. The university actively collaborates with global academic institutions as well as Korea’s major industries, especially those located in Ulsan — home to global giants like Hyundai Motor, Hyundai Heavy Industries, and SK Innovation. These partnerships allow students and researchers to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts and contribute to technological advancements.

The campus itself is a modern, eco-friendly space designed to inspire innovation and creativity. UNIST provides state-of-the-art laboratories, startup incubators, and student-centered support systems to nurture both academic and personal growth.

In just over a decade, UNIST has made remarkable strides in global university rankings and research output. It continues to attract world-renowned faculty and top-tier students from around the globe, striving to become a global hub for science and technology that contributes to solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges.