NUK Ranks No. 1 Among Mid-Sized Universities in Cheers 2026 Employer Survey, Continues to Rise Nationwide

2026-01-19
According to the latest “2026 Most Favored University Graduates Survey” released by Cheers Magazine, the National University of Kaohsiung (NUK) has once again ranked first among mid-sized universities. Among the top 30 institutions nationwide, NUK—one of the smallest universities on the list with just over 6,000 students—has continued its upward trajectory, reaching No. 24 this year and demonstrating steady progress in its institutional development.
NUK President Chen Chi-Jen noted that the university’s continued rise in rankings reflects the long-term, collective efforts of faculty, staff, and students across teaching, research, and institutional development. He expressed appreciation for the contributions made by all members of the university community in advancing NUK’s steady growth.
President Chen further emphasized that in recent years, NUK has focused on key strategic directions, including interdisciplinary innovation, industry collaboration, local engagement, and international connectivity. Through cross-unit cooperation and teamwork, the university aims to strengthen students’ core competencies while cultivating interdisciplinary integration and hands-on capabilities. Moving forward, NUK will continue to enhance teaching quality and deepen industry–academia linkages, aligning with University Social Responsibility (USR) initiatives and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He also highlighted NUK’s strategic location within southern Taiwan’s semiconductor “S Corridor,” which positions the university as an important hub within the regional industrial ecosystem. In response to industry demands, NUK has actively collaborated with leading technology companies—including TSMC—to develop specialized academic programs, further strengthening talent cultivation and industry alignment.
According to Cheers Magazine, the “Most Favored University Graduates Survey” has been conducted for 30 years, tracking how employers perceive university graduates over time. The survey draws on insights from HR executives at 2,000 major enterprises, providing a valuable reference for higher education performance and talent development.
This year’s results show that among the top 30 universities, 13 are public institutions. NUK has the smallest student population among them while securing the top position among mid-sized universities. Coverage by Cheers also noted that NUK’s steady rise in rankings reflects its achievements in integrating academic learning with practical application, promoting interdisciplinary education, and strengthening industry connections—factors increasingly recognized by employers.
For more details, see: Cheers Magazine 2026 Survey Report
https://www.cheers.com.tw/article/article.action?id=5105265