A comparison of the tertiary education in the United States and Vietnam

Abstract

This article gives a general introduction of the system and programs of tertiary education in the United States from the following quarters: tertiary system, goals of tertiary education, public governance of tertiary education, tertiary enterprises, degrees and demands, etc. Having made a comparative analysis of basic differences of the under-graduate level in the United States and Vietnam, the author gives some comments on the tertiary education in Vietnam (for instance, the training program is too long; the program is neither vocational nor educative of in-depth knowledge and creative character; the program does not provide under-graduate students with basic and comprehensive knowledge of natural sciences, humanity science, literature, arts, etc.). The author also raises the question of possible reform of training programs in Vietnam and makes certain suggestions aiming at developing a high-quality university in Vietnam.