Cheng Shiu University Launches New Department of Nursing: Integrating AI and Simulation-Based Teaching to Cultivate Professional Talent

After three years of dedicated planning, Cheng Shiu University officially inaugurated its Department of Nursing in August 2024. University President Dr. Jui-Chang Kung stated that, in developing this newly established department, the university strategically incorporated AI technology and scenario-based simulation teaching, and forged alliances with 22 industry and healthcare partners. These collaborations ensure that both instructional methods and technical applications meet the current standards and evolving needs of the nursing profession, thereby enhancing students’ clinical competency and driving innovation in nursing education.

In response to the growing difficulties in recruiting healthcare professionals—evidenced by reports of hospital ward closures due to nursing shortages—President Kung emphasized in a recent interview with University Guide that the establishment of the Department of Nursing reflects the university’s comprehensive investment in facilities, faculty, curriculum, and clinical partnerships. By introducing AI-assisted instruction and immersive simulation systems, the program aims to equip students with workplace-ready skills and address societal healthcare demands.

President Kung shared that the journey to establish the department was met with multiple challenges. Cheng Shiu University strictly followed government procedures to submit the program proposal and successfully received approval within three years. The planning phase began by securing support from the healthcare sector, followed by the recruitment of highly qualified nursing educators and the design of a robust and modern curriculum. "The founding of this department marks a new milestone in Cheng Shiu University’s 60-year educational legacy, and offers aspiring nursing students an exceptional platform for professional growth," he remarked.

Originally known for its excellence in engineering, Cheng Shiu University also excels in general education, offering a rich liberal arts and digital learning environment. President Kung highlighted the department’s educational objectives: to nurture nursing professionals with foundational clinical skills, innovative research literacy, cloud-based information management competencies, and the ability to solve complex clinical problems. This vision leverages the university’s strengths and is designed to attract passionate students to pursue careers in nursing.

Professor Chiu Yen-Fen, Director of the Department of Nursing, noted that Taiwan’s healthcare system is currently facing a significant nursing workforce shortage, making this an opportune time to enter the profession. She emphasized that nursing is a licensed and regulated discipline, with clearly defined core competencies and skill standards established by the Taiwan Nurses Association and the Ministry of Health and Welfare.

At present, Cheng Shiu University has appointed 14 nursing faculty members, all of whom hold doctoral degrees and possess extensive clinical experience. The department plans to expand its faculty based on curriculum needs. Professor Chiu stressed that nursing education goes beyond technical instruction—it must also foster empathy and emotional intelligence in students, with the goal of cultivating the next generation of advanced nursing professionals. “We envision our graduates becoming vital contributors to the healthcare system, bringing hope to patients and compassion to society,” she affirmed.