Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology is set to implement a new hierarchical classification system for scientific and technological fields starting December 2025. This comprehensive framework will standardize research categorization across four detailed levels, ranging from broad disciplines to specific subfields. The update aims to improve nationwide strategic planning, resource allocation, and the overall monitoring of research activities.
📌 Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology has issued Circular No. 24/2025/TT-BKHCN, introducing a new national classification system for science and technology fields. The regulation, signed by Minister of Science and Technology, will take effect on December 15, 2025, replacing Decision No. 12/2008/QĐ-BKHCN issued in 2008.
The new framework categorizes Vietnam’s science and technology landscape into four hierarchical levels. Level 1 defines six main disciplines: natural sciences; engineering and technology; medical and pharmaceutical sciences; agricultural sciences; social sciences; and humanities.
Level 2 contains 46 scientific branches, coded from 101 to 699. Level 3 expands into 328 specialized research areas, numbered from 10101 to 60499, while Level 4 includes 1,780 subfields, ranging from 1010101 to 6040799. Detailed codes and descriptions are provided in an annex attached to the Circular.
According to the Ministry, the classification will serve as a standardized tool for science and technology statistics, resource allocation, strategic planning, and policy development. It will also support integration with socio-economic statistical systems, enhancing Vietnam’s capacity to monitor and evaluate research activities nationwide.
