Oregon State University empowers Vietnamese talent to drive global technology innovation

Dr. Jayathi Y. Murthy, President of Oregon State University (OSU). Photo courtesy of OSU

What is your take on the demand for AI and STEM education, both in Vietnam and worldwide?

I am incredibly optimistic about the future of STEM. The demand for talent in these fields is surging, driven by rapid advancements in AI and other technologies. Industries worldwide are racing to adopt AI and tech solutions, and they need talented individuals to bring these innovations to life.

In Vietnam, this is especially evident with NVIDIA setting up an R&D center, which signals the bright future for IT, AI, and STEM professionals in the country. According to the 2024 Vietnam IT Workforce Report, the IT sector will need approximately 700,000 workers by the end of the year, but projections show only 530,000 will be available. This gap of nearly 200,000 skilled professionals underscores the urgent need for high-quality STEM education.

What is exciting for Vietnamese students is that more are looking to the U.S. for their education. In 2024, over 22,000 Vietnamese students were enrolled in U.S. universities, with nearly 48% pursuing STEM fields. The momentum is incredible, and it will only continue to grow.

What makes STEM programs advanced, and how does Oregon State University stand out in that mix?

Choosing a STEM program is a significant decision, and there are key factors to consider. First, look at the university's strength in STEM, its research focus areas, faculty expertise, and infrastructure. Then, consider its commitment to research and development, as that's where innovation happens. Lastly, check out its industry partnerships—do students get hands-on experience, real-world exposure, and strong career prospects?

At Oregon State, we have designed our programs around these priorities. We are ranked in the top 1.4% of universities worldwide and are leaders in AI, robotics, and sustainability research. Our partnerships with tech giants like NVIDIA, Intel, Amazon, and Google ensure that our students are not just learning theory but actively solving real-world problems and connecting with mentors and employers who influence the global tech industry.

We have also invested heavily in state-of-the-art facilities to support student learning and innovation. One example is the upcoming Jen-Hsun Huang and Lori Mills Huang Collaborative Innovation Complex, funded by OSU alumni Jen-Hsun Huang, NVIDIA's founder and CEO, and his wife, Lori Mills Huang. Set to open in 2026, this facility will house one of the most powerful supercomputers at any U.S. academic institution, advancing research in AI, sustainability, climate science, and more.

Additionally, we are committed to supporting talented international students. Every Vietnamese resident admitted to OSU receives a four-year undergraduate scholarship, and top students with a 3.75 GPA or higher are eligible for additional funding for our prestigious Honors College.

Our commitment to research is strong. In 2024, we achieved $422 million in annual research expenditures, with plans to double that by 2030. This creates a thriving ecosystem for ambitious students to turn their ideas into impactful solutions.

OSU's data center opening in 2026. Photo courtesy of OSU

What advantages do Vietnamese students gain by studying STEM in the U.S., especially at OSU, and what challenges might they face along the way?

Vietnamese students bring immense value to OSU, and we see that every day with over 80 Vietnamese students excelling in our programs. They have a strong foundation in math and technical subjects, which prepares them well for STEM fields. Their academic excellence often earns them merit-based scholarships, and their adaptability and problem-solving skills are key assets in our research-driven environment.

Studying in the U.S. provides them with a global edge, particularly as Vietnam's tech scene expands with investments like NVIDIA's. Graduates can return home with a U.S. education, hands-on research experience, and exposure to top industry practices, positioning them as leaders in the job market.

At OSU, they can access world-leading programs in AI, robotics, and climate tech, as well as career connections with companies shaping the future. However, challenges like adapting to a new culture or managing costs can arise. We address these through a supportive international community, generous scholarships, on-campus job opportunities, and mentorship to help students settle in and thrive.

What advice would you give Vietnamese students pursuing a career in the global tech industry?

Stay curious, build a solid foundation, dive into research, and refine both your technical and problem-solving skills. The global tech industry values talented individuals who can think creatively and apply their knowledge in innovative ways.

At OSU, we encourage students to participate in real-world projects—whether through internships, research programs, or collaborations with industry leaders. Vietnam's tech talent is already making a global impact, and with the right education and experience, Vietnamese students can play a significant role in the AI and tech revolution. We are here to support them in building that future, and I look forward to seeing more of them join us at OSU to make it happen.