The Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training (MoET) has introduced a new regulation that will alter the names of numerous university programs, effective from January 1, 2027. This initiative, outlined in Circular 74/2026, aims to modernize the educational framework and ensure that program titles reflect contemporary academic and professional standards.

According to the new guidelines, many existing fields of study will undergo renaming. For instance, several foreign language teacher training programs, such as English, French, and German, will be consolidated under the broader category of foreign language teaching. This change is expected to streamline the educational offerings and clarify the qualifications of graduates.

In the business sector, programs will also see significant renaming. Areas such as brand management and business technology will now be categorized under business administration. Additionally, marketing programs will be redefined to include digital marketing and communication strategies, while others will transition to commerce-related titles, such as fashion business and agricultural entrepreneurship.

Experts have expressed mixed feelings about these changes. Nguyen Huu Duy Khang, Deputy Head of the University Training Department at Can Tho University, noted that while the new titles may facilitate broader educational frameworks, they could also create confusion regarding graduates' specific qualifications. He emphasized the need for diplomas to clearly indicate the specific training programs completed by students.

Trần Hữu Duy, Vice President of Dalat University, echoed similar sentiments, stating that while the changes could enhance program flexibility and development, it is crucial to maintain clarity in the titles and descriptions of the programs offered.

The Ministry of Education has stated that these changes are based on scientific and practical considerations, aiming to align educational programs with the evolving demands of the labor market. Institutions are encouraged to adapt their curricula accordingly and ensure that they meet the new standards by the implementation date.

As Vietnam prepares for these educational reforms, stakeholders are urged to engage in discussions to refine the transition process, ensuring that the new program titles serve both educational institutions and students effectively.