The Doctoral Program in Cultural Industries and Cultural Policies was established in 2013 as the first Ph.D. program in Taiwan dedicated to the study of cultural and creative industries and related policies. The program integrates faculty members and researchers from five departments and programs, with the Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) serving as its director.

Cultural and creative industries are widely recognized by the government, academia, and business sectors as “sun-rising industries” with strong growth potential. The term refers to a broad range of economic activities centered on the creation, production, and commercialization of cultural knowledge and information. In different contexts, these may also be called the “cultural industries” (particularly in Europe), the “creative economy,” or, more recently, the “Orange Economy” in Latin America and the Caribbean. The scope of cultural and creative industries is extensive, encompassing advertising and marketing; architecture; crafts; product, graphic, and fashion design; film, television, video, radio, and photography; IT, software, and computer services; publishing; museums, galleries, and libraries; music, performing and visual arts, and more.

This multidisciplinary program examines the development, management, and policy of cultural and creative industries, exploring both practical and theoretical challenges faced by cultural entrepreneurs, professionals, and policymakers. Drawing on analytical tools from sociology, management, public policy, linguistics, informatics, and cultural studies, the curriculum combines the academic expertise of CHSS faculty with insights from experienced industry professionals.

The program is designed for individuals seeking a career in the arts or creative industries, as well as arts professionals and managers aiming to expand their knowledge and enhance career prospects. It also provides solid preparation for doctoral research in culture, media, and creative industries.

Ph.D. candidates typically complete the program within two to seven years. In addition to a doctoral dissertation, students must earn 21 course credits, comprising 9 credits of required courses and 12 credits of electives, and present three conference papers. They are also required to publish at least one paper in a peer-reviewed journal or book.

Scholarships may be awarded based on a student’s qualifications and academic performance. However, foreign applicants are strongly advised to have advanced proficiency in Mandarin, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing, as English-taught courses are limited. Furthermore, because the program emphasizes cultural industries and policies in the Greater China region, Mandarin proficiency is an essential tool for academic and professional success.