Introduction

Thammasat University, located in Bangkok, Thailand, is one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Established in 1934, the university has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, social engagement, and political activism. Thammasat University is renowned for its commitment to democracy, human rights, and social justice, making it a symbol of intellectual freedom and progressive thinking in Thailand.

Founding History

Thammasat University was founded with the vision of providing higher education opportunities for all Thai citizens, regardless of their social or economic backgrounds. In the 1930s, Thailand was undergoing a period of political and social transformation, and there was a pressing need for an institution that would promote democratic values and critical thinking.

The university was officially established on June 27, 1934, by the enactment of the Thammasat University Act. It was named after King Prajadhipok, also known as King Rama VII, whose birth name was Thammasat Sakdinarong. The name “Thammasat” itself means “University of Morality.”

From its inception, Thammasat University became a center for intellectual discourse, political activism, and social justice. It played a pivotal role in shaping Thailand’s political landscape, with its students and faculty advocating for democratic reforms and social equality.

Departments and Faculties

Thammasat University is organized into several faculties and departments, each specializing in different academic disciplines. The university’s faculties ensure that students have access to a comprehensive education across a wide range of fields.

• Faculty of Law: The Faculty of Law is one of the flagship faculties at Thammasat University. It offers programs in law and legal studies, preparing students for careers in legal practice, judiciary, and public service.
• Faculty of Political Science: This faculty focuses on political science, international relations, and public administration. It trains students to understand and analyze political systems, global affairs, and governance.
• Faculty of Economics: The Faculty of Economics provides programs in economics, finance, and business administration. It prepares students to understand economic systems, make informed decisions, and excel in the business world.
• Faculty of Journalism and Mass Communication: This faculty offers programs in journalism, advertising, public relations, and communication studies. It equips students with the skills and knowledge to excel in the dynamic and ever-evolving field of communication.
• Faculty of Liberal Arts: The Faculty of Liberal Arts offers programs in humanities, social sciences, and interdisciplinary studies. It fosters critical thinking, cultural understanding, and social awareness.
• Faculty of Science and Technology: This faculty provides programs in various scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and computer science. It fosters scientific inquiry and research to deepen our understanding of the natural world.
• Faculty of Engineering: The Faculty of Engineering offers programs in various engineering disciplines, including civil, electrical, mechanical, chemical, and computer engineering. It prepares students to tackle engineering challenges and find innovative solutions.
• Faculty of Architecture and Planning: This faculty prepares students to become skilled architects and urban planners who can create sustainable and aesthetically pleasing built environments.
• Faculty of Medicine: The Faculty of Medicine offers programs in medicine, nursing, and public health. It trains future healthcare professionals and emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and clinical practice.
• Faculty of Social Administration: This faculty focuses on social work, social administration, and community development. It equips students with the skills to address social issues and promote social justice.

Courses Offered

Thammasat University offers a wide range of courses that cater to students’ academic interests and career goals. The university is committed to providing a holistic education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their chosen fields.

Some of the notable courses offered at Thammasat University include:

• Law: The law program at Thammasat University prepares students for legal practice, judiciary, and public service. It covers various aspects of Thai and international law.
• Political Science: The political science program focuses on the study of political systems, international relations, and public administration. It prepares students for careers in government, diplomacy, and public service.
• Journalism: The journalism program equips students with the skills to excel in the field of journalism, covering areas such as news reporting, investigative journalism, and multimedia storytelling.
• Economics: Thammasat University’s economics program provides a solid foundation in economic theory, policy analysis, and quantitative methods. It prepares graduates to understand and analyze economic systems.
• Mass Communication: The mass communication program focuses on various forms of media, including print, broadcast, and digital media. It prepares students for careers in advertising, public relations, journalism, and media production.
• Computer Science: This program focuses on computer programming, software development, and computer systems. It prepares students for careers in the rapidly evolving field of technology.
• Architecture: The architecture program at Thammasat University combines design principles with sustainable practices, preparing students to create innovative and environmentally friendly built environments.
• Medicine: The medicine program at Thammasat University provides a comprehensive medical education, combining theoretical knowledge with clinical practice. It prepares students to become doctors who provide quality healthcare.
• Social Work: The social work program focuses on addressing social issues, advocating for social justice, and promoting community development. It equips students with the skills to make a positive impact on society.
• Environmental Science: This program focuses on studying and preserving the environment. It equips students with the skills to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.

Summary

Thammasat University, with its long history, commitment to academic excellence, and dedication to democratic values, stands as a symbol of intellectual freedom and progressive thinking in Thailand. The university’s diverse faculties, state-of-the-art facilities, and wide range of courses provide a vibrant and dynamic learning environment for students seeking higher education. Whether students are interested in law, politics, economics, journalism, or science, Thammasat University offers a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment for academic and personal growth. With its focus on democracy, human rights, and social justice, Thammasat University continues to shape the future of education and contribute to the betterment of society.