Sogang University
Address: 35 Baekbeom-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul 04107, South Korea
Phone: +82 2 705 8114
Email: admissions@sogang.ac.kr
Website: www.sogang.ac.kr
About Sogang University
Sogang University was established by the Society of Jesus to provide an education based on Catholic belief and inspired by the Jesuit educational philosophy, in conformity with the Korean tradition of education. Sogang University's goal is to educate the whole human person on foundations of love and faith, encouraging all its members to be intent on the pursuit of learning in a sincere quest for truth, resolved to practice justice and respect the human dignity and worth of every person. Through this education, we aim to cultivate people of talent who will devote their lives to the development of a humanistic culture and the union of all mankind.
Why Sogang University
Sogang University is renowned for several reasons, contributing to its reputation in South Korea and internationally. Here are the key factors that make Sogang University famous:
1. Academic Excellence
- Sogang University is consistently ranked among the top universities in South Korea, particularly noted for its programs in humanities, social sciences, and business.
- The university has a strong emphasis on liberal arts education, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and holistic education.
2. Strong Language Programs
- Known for its excellent Korean language programs, Sogang University attracts many international students seeking to learn Korean. The Sogang University Language Education Center is particularly respected for its immersive language courses.
- The university also offers programs in English, making it accessible to a diverse international student body.
3. Research Contributions
- Sogang is recognized for its research output, particularly in fields like business, social sciences, and engineering. The university actively participates in national and international research initiatives, contributing to advancements in various disciplines.
4. Global Engagement
- The university has numerous partnerships with institutions worldwide, facilitating exchange programs and collaborative research projects. This global engagement enhances its reputation and attracts a diverse student population.
- Sogang University also hosts various international conferences and seminars, further promoting its global presence.
5. Innovative Teaching Methods
- Sogang is known for its unique teaching methods, which emphasize active learning and student participation. The university's approach to education encourages students to engage critically with the material and develop their perspectives.
6. Vibrant Campus Life
- The university offers a rich campus life with numerous extracurricular activities, student organizations, and cultural events, creating a lively and inclusive environment for students.
- Sogang’s location in the heart of Seoul provides students with access to a vibrant city culture, enhancing their overall university experience.
7. Notable Alumni
- Sogang University has produced a number of successful alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields, including politics, business, academia, and the arts. The accomplishments of its graduates add to the university’s prestige.
8. Commitment to Social Responsibility
- Sogang emphasizes the importance of social responsibility and ethical leadership, encouraging students to engage in community service and social initiatives. This commitment enhances the university's reputation as a socially conscious institution.
Sogang University has specific language requirements for international students, depending on the program of study. Here’s an overview of the language requirements:
1. Programs Taught in English
Sogang University offers various programs taught in English, particularly at the graduate level. For these programs, international applicants are typically required to demonstrate English proficiency through standardized tests. Common requirements include:
- TOEFL (iBT): A minimum score of 80 or higher.
- IELTS: A minimum score of 6.0 or higher.
- TOEIC: A minimum score of 750 may also be accepted for certain programs.
Some specific programs may have higher score requirements, so it's essential to check the details for the particular department or program.
2. Programs Taught in Korean
For programs taught in Korean, international students are generally required to demonstrate proficiency in the Korean language. This is usually assessed through the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK). The typical requirements are:
- TOPIK Level 3 or higher for undergraduate programs.
- TOPIK Level 4 or higher for graduate programs.
Students who do not meet the required TOPIK level may be conditionally admitted and required to take Korean language courses at Sogang until they achieve the necessary proficiency.
3. Exemptions from Language Requirements
Certain applicants may be exempt from submitting language test scores if they meet specific criteria, such as:
- Having completed their previous education (high school or undergraduate) in an English-speaking country or in a program where English was the medium of instruction.
- Holding a degree from a university in South Korea where Korean was the language of instruction.
4. Language Support
Sogang University provides various language support services, including:
- Korean language programs for international students to improve their Korean language skills before or during their studies.
- English language support services for students enrolled in English-taught programs, including tutoring and writing assistance.
Sogang University is a prominent institution in South Korea, known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts and social sciences, alongside its business and engineering programs. Here’s an overview of the course specialties offered at Sogang University:
1. College of Humanities
- Specialties:
- Korean Language and Literature
- English Language and Literature
- Philosophy
- History
- Cultural Studies
2. College of Social Sciences
- Specialties:
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Economics
- Psychology
- Communication Studies
3. College of Natural Sciences
- Specialties:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Environmental Science
4. College of Business Administration
- Specialties:
- Business Administration
- International Business
- Marketing
- Finance
- Accounting
- Entrepreneurship
5. College of Law
- Specialties:
- Law
- Legal Studies
6. College of Information and Communication Engineering
- Specialties:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Software Engineering
- Telecommunication Engineering
7. Graduate School of International Studies
- Specialties:
- International Relations
- Global Business
- Korean Studies
8. Interdisciplinary Programs
- Sogang University encourages interdisciplinary studies, allowing students to engage in combined programs that integrate multiple fields of study, especially in areas like Sustainability and Digital Humanities.
9. Specialized Programs
- Sogang offers specialized programs, such as the Sogang University Language Education Center for students wanting to improve their Korean language skills, and various business-related certifications.
Sogang University boasts a number of distinguished professors across various fields, contributing significantly to research and education. Here are some notable faculty members recognized for their expertise and achievements:
1. Professor Lee Jin-suk
- Department: Philosophy
- Specialty: Ethics and Political Philosophy
- Achievements: Professor Lee has published extensively on ethical theory and has been influential in contemporary philosophical discussions.
2. Professor Choi Eun-kyung
- Department: Psychology
- Specialty: Cognitive Psychology and Behavioral Science
- Achievements: Known for her research on cognitive processes, she has contributed to understanding decision-making and learning behaviors.
3. Professor Kim Kwang-suk
- Department: Economics
- Specialty: Development Economics
- Achievements: Professor Kim is recognized for his research on economic development policies and has published influential papers on international economics.
4. Professor Park Chan-wook
- Department: Political Science
- Specialty: International Relations and Security Studies
- Achievements: An expert in East Asian security issues, Professor Park has contributed to various scholarly works and policy discussions on regional stability.
5. Professor Seo Jae-hyun
- Department: Business Administration
- Specialty: Marketing and Consumer Behavior
- Achievements: Professor Seo is noted for his research in marketing strategies and has worked with numerous companies to improve their marketing practices.
6. Professor Yoo Joon-ho
- Department: Computer Science
- Specialty: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Achievements: A leading researcher in AI, Professor Yoo has contributed to significant advancements in machine learning algorithms and applications.
7. Professor Kim Soo-yeon
- Department: Korean Language and Literature
- Specialty: Modern Korean Literature
- Achievements: Professor Kim's research focuses on contemporary literature and cultural criticism, and she has published numerous works on Korean literary studies.
8. Professor Han Hyun-joon
- Department: Sociology
- Specialty: Social Movements and Policy Studies
- Achievements: Known for his research on social change and public policy, Professor Han has contributed to the understanding of civic engagement and social movements in South Korea.
9. Professor Lim Ji-hye
- Department: Global Studies
- Specialty: International Relations and Global Governance
- Achievements: An expert in global governance issues, Professor Lim has published works addressing international cooperation and conflict resolution.
10. Professor Park So-young
- Department: Education
- Specialty: Educational Psychology and Pedagogy
- Achievements: Professor Park focuses on learning theories and has contributed significantly to the field of education with her research on effective teaching methods.
As of now, Sogang University has not produced any Nobel Prize laureates among its faculty or alumni. However, the university is recognized for its strong academic programs and research contributions, particularly in the fields of humanities, social sciences, business, and engineering.
While Sogang may not have Nobel winners, it continues to foster a vibrant academic environment that contributes to advancements in various disciplines. The university's commitment to education, research, and social responsibility may lead to future recognitions in the academic community.