Embedded Spring: Rutgers-Leading with Wisdom in the Age of AI in Taiwan
The Program
Discover Taiwan as a living laboratory where cutting-edge technology meets ancient wisdom. As the global hub of semiconductor innovation and a society shaped by rich philosophical traditions, Taiwan offers a unique setting in which to study leadership in the age of AI. You’ll explore the leadership, human resources management, and labor relations principles that drive TSMC—the world’s leading chipmaker powering the AI revolution—alongside Taiwan’s thriving culture of social entrepreneurship. Beyond academics, experience the vibrancy of Taiwan through bustling night markets, tea ceremonies, majestic temples, scenic landscapes, high-speed train adventures, and modern icons like Taipei 101.
Program Locations
Taiwan
Taipei
Taipei, the capital city of Taiwan, is a dynamic urban hub known for its cutting-edge technology, lively night markets, and deep cultural traditions. As the political, cultural, and economic center of the island, Taipei offers a unique blend of modern innovation and rich heritage. Visitors can explore historical temples, experience the bustle of street food culture, and learn about Taiwan’s pivotal role in the global semiconductor industry. Taipei also provides a living classroom for understanding how Eastern philosophies and democratic values shape leadership, labor, and society in an increasingly interconnected world.
Taiwan
Hsinchu
The TSMC Museum of Innovation in Hsinchu highlights both Taiwan’s role in the global chip industry and the leadership of its founder, Morris Chang. Students visiting the museum not only learn how semiconductors power modern life but also see how Chang’s vision, integrity, and long-term strategy shaped TSMC into a global leader. The exhibits illustrate how his blend of innovation and discipline created a company culture built on trust, excellence, and adaptability—offering students a powerful lesson in leadership for the technology-driven world.
Taiwan
Kaohsiung
Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s lively southern port city, is home to the renowned Fo Guang Shan Monastery, the island’s largest Buddhist center and a hub of Humanistic Buddhism. Closely linked is Fo Guang University, which blends academic study with ethical and cultural development. Together, Kaohsiung, the monastery, and the university showcase how Taiwan combines urban energy, spiritual traditions, and educational innovation—offering students a unique setting to explore leadership, culture, and global citizenship.
Academics
Through academic readings, lectures, site visits, guided reflection, and direct engagement with Taiwanese academics, businesses, social enterprises, government agencies, and cultural institutions, students will be able to:
- Understand Taiwan’s history and evaluate the role of the role of its semiconductor industry in shaping global business and technological leadership.
- Explain how East Asian wisdom traditions influence contemporary leadership, management styles, and workplace culture in Taiwan.
- Analyze the challenges of cross-cultural management and labor relations in the context of global technology expansion.
- Develop cultural competencies for leading, managing, working, and living in East Asian contexts.
- Apply leadership theories to real-world observations and experiences during site visits and cultural engagement.
This program is offered in collaboration with Fulbright Taiwan.
Housing and Meals
The program includes 7 nights in Taiwan, where students will stay in double occupancy rooms at a hotel. Breakfast is included at the hotel, and all meals are included with the program. A welcome and farewell dinner is included with the program. Students will travel through the island of Taiwan with overnight stays in Taipei and Kaoshiung.
Scholarships
Faculty Leaders
Dr. Tracy F. H. Chang is an Associate Professor and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs in the School of Management and Labor Relations.