Objective

Thirty Plus University Pilot Program aims to place universities at the center of lifelong learning by expanding flexible and interdisciplinary learning opportunities for adults aged 30 and above. Through specialized fields of study and flexible academic systems, the program guides learners to accumulate credits through problem-based learning, update their knowledge, and enhance their competencies.

Implementation Strategies and Key Measures

Thirty Plus University Pilot Program was launched in response to Taiwan’s transition into a super-aged society, as well as the growing demand for knowledge renewal, in-service learning, and career redesign brought about by artificial intelligence, Industry 4.0, and rapid industrial transformation.

Targeting adults aged 30 and above, the program integrates universities’ professional capacities with flexible academic systems to provide opportunities for interdisciplinary learning, credit accumulation, and pathways toward obtaining a bachelor’s degree. Centered on the concept of “Life 100 Literacy,” the program includes a required two-credit core course, “Forward-Looking Responses to Life 100,” which guides learners to understand trends in an aging society and develop concepts of lifelong learning and independent living.

The program also encourages universities to design 12- to 18-credit professional credit programs based on three major modules: Holistic Health Design, Career Transition Design, and Social Connection Design. These programs may cover fields such as elderly care, health management, artificial intelligence applications, digital transformation, sustainable governance, adult education, career planning, and social services.

In terms of implementation, the program adopts independent admission and additional enrollment quotas for adults aged 30 and above who possess at least a senior high school diploma or equivalent qualifications. The maximum period of study is 10 years, and courses may be offered through flexible formats, including daytime, evening, weekend, online, in-person, practical, and mobile learning models, to accommodate adult learners’ needs in balancing work, family, and study.

To ensure learning quality, participating universities are required to establish mechanisms for course quality assurance, learning outcome assessment, and feedback. They are also encouraged to provide support services such as learning consultation, psychological counseling, career guidance, interpersonal networking, and achievement presentations. Overall, the program not only offers adults aged 30 and above diverse opportunities for continuing education and degree attainment, but also promotes universities as lifelong learning hubs that support interdisciplinary learning, career transition, and social innovation.