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Chiang Mai University

Chiang Mai, 🇹🇭 Thailand Public
#3 National #526 QS World #1001 THE #601 ARWU
Chiang Mai University campus
Founded 1964 38,269 students Multiple Campuses $3.5k - $8k/yr

About Chiang Mai University

Chiang Mai University (CMU) is a prominent public research university in Northern Thailand, established in 1964 as the first provincial university in the country. It is recognized for its comprehensive academic offerings and commitment to research and cultural preservation. CMU aims to foster global citizens through its diverse programs and vibrant campus life.

Academics


CMU offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across 21 faculties, 4 colleges, and 3 institutes. The university is particularly strong in fields such as engineering, science, agriculture, medicine, social sciences, and environmental studies. The Faculty of Science, one of the three original faculties, is a leading center for science education and research in Northern Thailand, with over 90% of its faculty holding PhD degrees. CMU emphasizes producing graduates who are knowledgeable, thoughtful, practical, and possess strong ethical and social awareness.

International Students


Chiang Mai University offers numerous international and bilingual programs taught in English at bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, attracting students from over 40 countries. The International Student Services Center (ISSC) provides comprehensive support, including pre-arrival assistance, visa guidance, academic procedures, and student life support through an integrated online portal. International students can also engage with various student organizations, such as the International Student Club and ethnic student clubs, fostering cultural integration. As of 2023, approximately 2.6% of CMU's student body comprises international students, with a significant portion from China, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia.

Campus & Location


The main campus, Suan Sak, spans 725 acres and is nestled against the backdrop of Doi Suthep mountain, offering a blend of natural beauty and modern facilities. The campus features landmarks like the scenic Ang Kaew Reservoir, which serves as a recreational area for students and locals. Free shuttle services are available to connect the main campus with its other two campuses, Suan Dok and Mae Hia. Chiang Mai city itself offers a relaxed pace of life, rich Lanna culture, diverse culinary experiences, and numerous attractions, including temples, markets, and natural parks.

Career Outcomes


While specific employment rates are not readily available, CMU's strong emphasis on practical learning, innovation, and research across various disciplines aims to produce skilled and adaptable graduates. The university's programs are designed to meet the changing demands of the workplace, and its graduates are recognized globally. The presence of a vibrant startup culture and numerous co-working spaces in Chiang Mai also provides opportunities for entrepreneurial students.

Highlights

  • First provincial university in Thailand
  • Comprehensive academic offerings
  • Strong research in key fields
  • Vibrant international student community
  • Beautiful campus near Doi Suthep

Subject Areas

AgricultureEngineeringMedicineScienceHumanities

Student Life & Support

Visa Support Campus Housing Sports Facilities Scholarships Available

Photos

Chiang Mai University photo 1Chiang Mai University photo 2Chiang Mai University photo 3Chiang Mai University photo 4Chiang Mai University photo 5Chiang Mai University photo 6Chiang Mai University photo 7Chiang Mai University photo 8Chiang Mai University photo 9

Programs Offered at Chiang Mai University (29)

Offers programs in:

Arts & Design Business & Management Computer Science Engineering Linguistics & Literature Medicine & Health Natural Sciences Physics & Chemistry Social Sciences

Bachelor Programs (13)

Bachelor of Architecture

STEM

Architecture

Architecture
bachelor in architecturestudy architecture in thailandbachelor architecture in chiang maiba architectureenglish-taught bachelor architecture in thailand
60 months Thai Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Biology

STEM

Biology

Biology
babachelorbachelor of science in biologybengbiology
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Communication Arts

Communication Arts

Communication Arts
thai-taught bachelor communication artsstudy communication arts in thailandbachelor in communication arts in thailandcommunication arts at chiang mai universitycommunication arts in thai
48 months Thai Full-time

Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering

STEM

Computer Engineering

Computer Engineering
bachelorcomputerengineeringthailand
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Economics

Economics

Economics
economics degreebachelors of economicschiang mai university bachelor programbs in economicsbachelor in economics
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Arts in English

English Language and Literature

English Language and Literature
BachelorChiang MaiEnglishEnglish Language and LiteratureLanguage
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science

STEM

Environmental Science

Environmental Science
bachelor environmental sciencebachelor environmental science programbachelor in environmental sciencebachelor in environmental science in thailandbs in environmental science
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Thai Art

Fine Arts

Fine Arts
artartsbachelorbachelor of fine arts in thai artchiang mai
48 months Thai Full-time

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design

Graphic Design

Graphic Design
BABSChiang Mai UniversityDesignGraphic
48 months Thai Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

STEM

Mathematics

Mathematics
babachelorbengbsbsc
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Nursing Science

STEM

Nursing

Nursing
babachelorbachelor of nursing sciencebengbs
48 months Thai Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Physics

STEM

Physics

Physics
applied physicsbabachelorbsbsc
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Arts in Thai Language and Culture

Thai Language and Culture

Thai Language and Culture
study thai language and culturestudy thai language and culture in thailandbachelors thai language and culture in thailandbachelor thai language and culturebachelor in thai language and culture in thailand
48 months Thai Full-time

Master Programs (7)

Master of Science in Biotechnology

STEM

Biotechnology

Biotechnology
biotechnologymaster's degreemaster in biotechnologystudy in thailandthailand
24 months English Full-time

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Business Administration

Business Administration
administrationbusinesschianggraduatema
24 months English Full-time

Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering

STEM

Civil Engineering

Civil Engineering
engineeringthailandcivilinfrastructurecivil engineering
24 months English Full-time

Master of Science in Environmental Science

STEM

Environmental Science

Environmental Science
environmentalenvironmental sciencemastermaster of science in environmental sciencescience
24 months English Full-time

Master of Science in Food Science and Technology

STEM

Food Science and Technology

Food Science and Technology
masters in Food Science and Technologymaster's in Food Science and TechnologyMaster of Science in Food Science and Technologystudy Food Science and Technology in ThailandFood Science and Technology in Chiang Mai
24 months English Full-time

Master of Arts in Linguistics

Linguistics

Linguistics
applied linguisticsartsgrammarlanguagelinguistics
24 months English Full-time

Master of Arts in Social Science

Social Science

Social Science
master's in social scienceMSc Social ScienceMA Social Sciencestudy social science in Chiang Maisocial science program Thailand
24 months English Full-time

PhD Programs (9)

PhD in Agriculture

STEM

Agriculture

Agriculture
phd in agriculturestudy agriculturestudy agriculture in thailandphd agriculture thailandagriculture program chiang mai
36 months English Full-time

Doctor of Philosophy in Agriculture

STEM

Agriculture

Agriculture
agriculturephdphilosophythailand
36 months English Full-time

PhD in Chemistry

STEM

Chemistry

Chemistry
phd chemistry in chiang maiphd chemistrydoctorate chemistry in chiang maidoctorate chemistry in thailanddoctorate in chemistry
36 months English Full-time

Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry

STEM

Chemistry

Chemistry
chemistry thailanddoctor of philosophy in chemistryDOPICchemical scienceslab science
36 months English Full-time

PhD in Electrical Engineering

STEM

Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineering
phd in electrical engineeringphd electrical engineeringphd electrical engineering degreephd electrical engineering programdoctorate in electrical engineering
36 months English Full-time

Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering

STEM

Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineering
doctorelectricalengineeringphdphilosophy
36 months English Full-time

Doctor of Philosophy in Materials Science

STEM

Materials Science

Materials Science
doctoraldoctoratematerialsmetallurgynanomaterials
36 months English Full-time

PhD in Public Health

STEM

Public Health

Public Health
healthphdpublicthailand
36 months English Full-time

Doctor of Philosophy in Public Health

STEM

Public Health

Public Health
doctorhealthphdphilosophypublic
36 months English Full-time

Chiang Mai University Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate

5+ IELTS
61+ TOEFL
2.5+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Open (60%+)
Intakes Fall, Spring
Tuition (per year) $3.5k - $8k/yr
Housing (monthly) ~$5000
Application Fee $1200
Teaching Language English, Thai, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, Spanish
Accreditation
Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Thailand

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Frequently Asked Questions About Chiang Mai University

Common questions from international students considering Chiang Mai University.

What is the acceptance rate at Chiang Mai University?

Chiang Mai University is classified as "Open (60%+)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.

How much does Chiang Mai University cost for international students?

Tuition at Chiang Mai University ranges from $3.5k - $8k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing (approximately $5000/month), books, and living expenses.

What is Chiang Mai University ranked globally?

Chiang Mai University holds the following rankings: QS World #526, Times Higher Education #1001, ARWU #601, #3 in Thailand. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.

What English language requirements does Chiang Mai University have?

Chiang Mai University typically requires IELTS 5+ or TOEFL 61+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.

Are scholarships available at Chiang Mai University?

Yes, Chiang Mai University offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.

When does Chiang Mai University start its semesters?

Chiang Mai University has intakes starting in Fall, Spring. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.

How many English-taught programs does Chiang Mai University offer?

Chiang Mai University offers 23+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.

Where is Chiang Mai University located?

Chiang Mai University is located in Chiang Mai, Thailand 🇹🇭. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.

What programs does Chiang Mai University offer?

For specific details about Chiang Mai University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

Are there scholarships at Chiang Mai University?

For specific details about Chiang Mai University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

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