Abbreviations have been used to save space in writings of all kinds for a long time. In the fields of science and technology where conciseness is needed, abbreviations play an increasing role as many new words have been coined. Similarly, the names of various organizations, agencies, institutions, etc. are often shortened by the use of acronyms - a new word formed from the first (or first few) letters of a series of words.

In Assumption University community, many abbreviations and acronyms are used in various writings by various authorities. It is sometimes difficult for anyone outside the field or discipline to understand the meaning of these abbreviated words or acronyms. This publication attempts to compile most of the abbreviations and acronyms commonly found in various writings within Assumption University.

It is hoped that this small publication would be of some value to the faculty members and staff of Assumption University as well as other readers who may run across these abbreviations and acronyms in various publications, announcements, brochures, etc.

On behalf of Assumption University, I wish to express my sincere thanks to Dr. Narong Chomchalow, Editor of AU Journal of Technology, for his initiative, as well as hard work involved in compiling, editing, and preparing the manuscripts of the AU Abbreviations and Acronyms - 2005. I also wish to thank Dr. C. Gigante MacBaine, Assistant Editor of AU Journal of Technology, who assisted in editing the manuscripts of this publication.

Dr. Bancha Saenghiran, FSG
President, Assumption University