Department of Psychology,FGU

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Q & A

Newly Created on 2023.09.22
Last Updated on 2025.02.25

I.Professional Psychology Issues: General Psychology Questions
 (a) Curiosity or stereotypes about psychology before enrolling.
II. Professional Psychology Issues: Clinical and Counseling Psychology Questions

 (a) What is clinical psychology? What is counseling psychology?
 (b) Questions related to exams and internships.
 (c) Requirements to become a clinical psychologist or counseling psychologist.

III. Questions About Psychology Course Content and Course Enrollment

 (a) Program-related questions.
 (b) Questions related to course enrollment and English proficiency.

IV. Fo Guang University Life and Administration

 (a) School administration and management.
 (b) Transportation.
 (c) Life and accommodation.

V. Questions About Personal Suitability and Career Planning

 (a) Personality traits suitable for studying psychology.
 (b) What happens after graduating with a degree in psychology?

Q: After reading this, if I have other related questions, who should I ask?
You can reach out to your academic advisor, department staff, or faculty members for further guidance. If you're looking for advice on career planning or life at the university, the campus counseling center or career services could also be helpful resources.



Psychology Professional Questions: General Psychology Questions

(1) Curiosity or Stereotypes About Psychology Before Studying It


Q1: If I study psychology, will I be able to know what others are thinking? Since you are studying psychology, can you tell what I am thinking right now?

A:Psychology is not mind reading. It is based on scientific research to understand the purposes behind our behaviors and the reasons for our thoughts. Psychology is defined as "the scientific study of the mind and behavior, and their relationship." It is a discipline that examines human minds and behavior scientifically, not by guessing people’s thoughts without any cues. The process of psychological analysis consists of three steps: (1) the subject exhibits a behavior, (2) the researcher observes it, and (3) the researcher infers the underlying causes and predicts possible outcomes based on prior experience. Without any cues from you, a psychology student cannot guess what you are thinking.

Q2:What is the difference between psychological tests and fortune-telling?

A:Psychological tests are developed based on psychological theories, using various test formats to analyze how participants respond to specific questions. These responses help infer the participant’s personality, preferences, or viewpoints. This process is grounded in past research findings, including how to design test items and verify that they measure the intended traits or preferences.

Q3:Are online psychological tests based on psychology?

A:Not necessarily. It is important to verify whether these tests have experimental and theoretical backing. Many online psychological tests use vague descriptions to encourage identification with the results, but this does not constitute psychology. Real psychology involves rigorous hypothesis formulation and testing.

Q4:What do you study in a psychology department?

A:Psychology is the scientific study of human behavior, emotions, cognition, and more. It encompasses many different schools of thought, each focusing on different aspects of human thoughts and behavior. Human thoughts and actions are complex, and psychologists try to categorize various elements, such as perception, memory, attention, emotion, language, personality, mental health, development, social interactions, behavior, consumer behavior, and more. Modern psychology differs from ancient philosophy or psychoanalysis because it emphasizes empirical evidence, requiring statistical data and proof to validate a theory or phenomenon. Therefore, some universities place psychology departments in the faculties of science or medicine.

Q5:What are the different branches of psychology?

A:As I know, psychology is divided into two main categories: basic psychology and applied psychology. Each of these categories is further subdivided into several fields. Basic psychology includes physiological psychology, social psychology, and cognitive psychology, while applied psychology includes educational psychology, clinical psychology, counseling psychology, and industrial-organizational psychology. Fo Guang University’s Department of Psychology covers all of these fields for students to learn. For more details about Fo Guang University’s Department of Psychology, visit the following link: http://psychology.fgu.edu.tw/.

Q6:Where can I find the research conducted by the faculty members?

A:You can view the faculty’s research publications on the Fo Guang University Department of Psychology website under the section for full-time faculty.

Q7:What is the difference between psychology departments in the natural sciences and social sciences?

A:Psychology departments in the natural sciences are typically housed in faculties of science, medicine, or social sciences, and the department names often include psychology or clinical psychology. These departments focus on scientific research in basic psychology. Psychology departments in the social sciences are typically located in faculties of education or humanities, with names like counseling psychology, social psychology, or educational psychology, and their core curriculum includes educational theory and counseling principles.

Q8:What are the key abilities that students in psychology-related departments need to develop during their four years of university study?

A: (1) Self-awareness and reflection: The ability to recognize one’s own feelings and thoughts, while also being able to empathize with others’ perspectives and emotions. (2) Communication skills and sensitivity: Psychology-related work often involves teaching, counseling, or interacting with clients, so it is crucial to be able to communicate effectively and sensitively, recognizing others' feelings and responding appropriately. (3) Critical thinking: The ability to objectively assess and differentiate true from false information. (4) Problem-solving skills: The ability to face challenges and think creatively to find solutions.

Q9:With the rise of AI, many jobs are expected to be replaced by machines. What new skills should psychology students acquire?

A:According to studies, jobs that are least likely to be affected by AI include those in education, management, research and development, healthcare, and social welfare. These jobs require skills and knowledge that psychology students possess, particularly in areas involving human interaction. AI still cannot fully replicate human sensitivity, especially in emotional awareness.

Q10:When applying for university admission, which items are most important for consideration?

A: For example, in written review, the following items are considered: academic records (A), extracurricular activities (such as F high school self-learning plans and achievements, M exceptional performance proofs, N summary of diverse activities), personal statements (P motivation for study, Q future learning plans and career goals), and others (R other helpful review materials). *Please refer to the specific admissions guidelines for the current year.


Psychology Professional Questions: Clinical and Counseling Psychology Questions


What is Clinical Psychology? What is Counseling Psychology?


Q1:What is Counseling Psychology?

A:In our growth process, every person faces life difficulties and needs assistance from others at some point. A counseling psychologist interacts with clients, using various therapeutic theories and techniques to help them become more self-aware, clarify problems, and explore additional possibilities. Counseling psychologists have a deeper and more objective understanding of an individual’s psychological state, emotional changes, and interpersonal behavior patterns compared to the average person. Even seemingly casual conversations have specific goals and meanings behind them. In short, counseling psychology is a specialized scientific discipline focused on helping people.

Q2:What is Clinical Psychology?

A:Clinical psychology mainly focuses on understanding, preventing, and alleviating psychological distress and mental disorders. It helps us understand and reduce discomfort and dysfunction (disturbances) while promoting individuals’ adaptation, adjustment, and personal development in response to their environment.

Q3:What is the difference between a counseling psychologist and a clinical psychologist?

A:Regarding their educational backgrounds, both counseling psychologists and clinical psychologists have master's degrees and are certified through national exams, but the graduate programs they attend and the exams they take differ. The choice of which master's program to enter determines whether one will be eligible to take the exam for becoming a clinical psychologist or a counseling psychologist. On national professional certification, psychologists are labeled either as "counseling" or "clinical." In practice, both perform psychological assessments and treatment, but the professional training processes and the scope of practice vary. A clinical psychologist must graduate from a clinical psychology program (including one year of internship) and pass the national clinical psychology exam to become licensed to practice. A counseling psychologist, on the other hand, must graduate from a counseling program (also including one year of internship) and pass the national counseling psychology exam to become licensed to practice. In terms of service content, a clinical psychologist can engage in the psychological evaluation and treatment of mental illnesses or brain-related cognitive disorders, which counseling psychologists cannot do.

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Counseling Psychologist:
A counseling psychologist provides professional psychological services when individuals experience temporary psychological distress. In a private, confidential setting, clients and psychologists discuss solutions and express emotions, helping individuals with self-exploration. The main difference from a clinical psychologist is that the scope of practice for counseling psychologists does not include the assessment and treatment of mental illnesses or brain damage.

Clinical Psychologist:
In addition to counseling services, a clinical psychologist works with psychiatrists to conduct psychological assessments, evaluating a patient’s mental state and cognitive abilities, such as for mental illnesses (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, etc.). Clinical psychologists have extensive knowledge in psychiatric medicine and clinical experience. They not only deal with temporary psychological issues but also address long-term psychological conditions and personality disorders. Clinical psychologists provide deeper treatment for physical and psychological symptoms related to such cases.For more information, you can refer to the "Psychologist's Pocket" blog: https://headshrinkerspocket.blogspot.com/2017/02/blog-post_13.html.


Questions Related to Exams and Internships


Q1:Do undergraduate students need to do internships?

A:Our department's undergraduate program does not have mandatory internship courses. However, the course instructors may organize off-campus practical activities or site visits according to the course goals and plans. Additionally, the university's Career Development Center offers opportunities such as the "Industry Academy Employment Program" and "Corporate Internships" for students.

Q2:Can only students from psychology-related fields apply for clinical psychology graduate programs? What universities in Taiwan have clinical psychology graduate programs?

A:No, students from other fields can also apply for clinical psychology graduate programs. However, if a student is not from a psychology undergraduate program, they will need to take additional foundational psychology courses once admitted to the graduate program, according to the university's requirements. Currently, the availability of clinical psychology programs in Taiwan depends on the regulations of the Examination Yuan. As long as the program offers a major in clinical psychology with courses in relevant areas, such as psychopathy (three subjects, nine credits), psychological assessment (two subjects, six credits), and psychotherapy (two subjects, six credits), totaling seven subjects and twenty-one credits, students can take the licensing exam after completing the program and passing full-time internships.

Q3:What is full-time internship?

A:Full-time internship is a graduation requirement for clinical psychology master's students in our department. Graduate students in clinical psychology are required to complete one year (12 months, without winter or summer breaks) of clinical practice at medical institutions or other training sites (e.g., adult psychiatry, pediatrics, sleep medicine, family medicine, rehabilitation, oncology, hospice, or neurology), under the supervision of a clinical psychologist.

Q4:How do I apply for full-time internships?

A:Graduate students in clinical psychology must independently apply to hospitals or institutions for internships. The Taiwan Clinical Psychology Association website lists internship opportunities at medical institutions and other sites. Students can select the institutions they are interested in, submit required documents (e.g., personal statement, resume, academic transcripts), and wait for the institution's response for an interview or oral exam.

Requirements to Become a Clinical Psychologist / Counseling Psychologist

Note: For detailed regulations regarding the clinical psychologist and counseling psychologist licensing exams, refer to the "Regulations for the Examination of Specialized Professional and Technical Personnel - Psychologist" by the Examination Yuan.


Q1:Can someone with a psychology degree become a psychologist?

A:Currently, Taiwan does not have a professional title equivalent to "psychologist" as in some foreign countries. Graduates of the psychology department who wish to work in this field must obtain a master's degree in clinical psychology and pass the "Psychologist Exam" organized by the Examination Yuan. After obtaining the license, they can work as clinical psychologists.

Q2:What are the requirements to become a psychologist?

A:To become a psychologist, you need to have a master's degree in clinical or counseling psychology, complete the required courses for the "Psychologist Exam" as stipulated by the Examination Yuan, and complete a full-time internship of at least one year. After passing the exam, you will receive the license to work as a clinical or counseling psychologist.

Q3:Do I need to graduate from a clinical psychology program to become a clinical psychologist? Can I come from other fields like social work?

A:To be eligible for the clinical psychologist or counseling psychologist licensing exam, you must major in clinical or counseling psychology at the master's level and complete at least one year of internship. Therefore, simply having an undergraduate degree (even in psychology) does not qualify you for the exam. A master's degree with the required clinical psychology or counseling psychology courses and internship is necessary to be eligible for the exam and certification.

Q4:What courses are required to graduate from a clinical psychology graduate program?

A:Clinical psychology graduate programs generally involve two years of study in core areas such as pathology, assessment, and therapy, followed by the completion of a master's thesis and a full-time one-year internship at a medical institution. Thus, at least three years are required to complete the program and qualify for the licensing exam.

Q5:How do I obtain a psychologist license?

A:Whether for clinical or counseling psychology, you must pass the "Psychologist Exam" organized by the Examination Yuan to obtain the relevant license.
Clinical Psychologist Licensing Requirements:

  1. Graduate from an accredited clinical psychology program (at least a master's degree).
  2. Complete a one-year internship with a passing grade (usually at medical institutions or psychological health centers).
  3. The exam covers the following subjects: Basic Clinical Psychology, Advanced Clinical Psychology, Specific Clinical Topics, and Psychological Assessment and Therapy.

Counseling Psychologist Licensing Requirements:

  1. Graduate from an accredited counseling psychology program (at least a master's degree).
  2. Complete a one-year internship with a passing grade.
  3. The exam covers: Counseling Theory, Practice, and Ethics, Psychological Health, Abnormal Psychology, Case Assessment, Group Counseling, and Therapy.

Source: Regulations of the Examination for Professional and Technical Personnel, Ministry of Examination, Taiwan.


Questions Regarding the Psychology Program and Coursework


Related to the Curriculum

Q1:What is the 2+2 Dual Degree Program between Fo Guang University and a U.S. university?

A:The dual degree program allows undergraduate students to study at Fo Guang University for the first two years and then complete their junior and senior years at the University of La Sierra in the U.S. Upon meeting the graduation credit requirements, students will receive two diplomas, one from each university. The minimum eligibility requires a TOEFL score of 69. Students with a lower TOEFL score may need to take an English Proficiency Test (EPT) and based on the results, they may be required to take ESL or bridge courses. For more details, please refer to the university's international office website.
For more details, please refer to the International and Cross-Strait Affairs Office of our university's 'Understanding the Taiwan-U.S. Dual Degree Program.

Q2:How do I apply for a minor or double major? What are the requirements?

A:In order to create a diverse and flexible interdisciplinary learning environment, expand the breadth and depth of students' learning, and enhance their competitiveness, all academic units of the university have adopted a program-based curriculum planning approach.
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Requirements: 
To graduate, undergraduate students of this university must complete the general education program, their respective department's major program (including: the college's basic program, the department's core program, and the department's professional elective program), and other free electives. The total number of credits must be no less than 128 credits.
Second Major (Double Major) Program:
In addition to completing their primary major program, undergraduate students who complete the major program of another department will have a note added to their graduation certificate: "Second Major XXX Department XXX Program."
Minor Program:
Undergraduate students may choose to pursue a minor program by completing core programs or specialized programs in other departments, interdisciplinary programs across colleges, or other employment-oriented programs. The graduation certificate will indicate: "Minor in XXX College (Department) XXX Program."
How to Apply: 
Undergraduate students do not need to apply separately for a minor or double major. They can directly set their program through the university's "Program IDP System" and complete the required programs before graduation.

Q3:What courses do students need to take in the psychology department?

A: Core courses in the psychology department include General Psychology, Statistics, Biological Psychology, Psychological Testing, Experimental Methods, Developmental Psychology, Social Psychology, Personality Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, etc. The department also offers professional courses in "Social, Educational, and Business Psychology" and "Cognitive, Clinical, and Neuroscience," with electives in Educational Psychology, Psychopharmacology, Organizational Psychology, Gender Psychology, Child Mental Health, and more.
Please refer to the curriculum structure and the course schedule of previous years for this department.

Q4:How many programs does the psychology department offer?

A:In the 2024-2025 academic year, the department offers three programs: "Core Psychology Program," "Social, Educational, and Business Psychology Program," and "Cognitive, Clinical, and Neuroscience Program."

Q5:Can I audit a psychology course at Fo Guang University?

A:Whether or not you can audit courses offered by the Psychology Department of Fo Guang University is decided by the course instructor. Each class may have different restrictions (e.g., whether participation in exams is required, whether assignments must be submitted, etc.). It is recommended that anyone interested in auditing a class email the instructor before the semester ends or before classes begin in the first week.
If you want to take a more comprehensive set of courses related to the psychology department, we recommend applying for "credit student" status through the university's Office of Academic Affairs to enroll in courses.

Information on how to apply for credit student status: https://academic.fgu.edu.tw/zh_tw/RCD/RCDformdownload.

You can find all the courses on the Fo Guang University course website: https://selcourse2.fgu.edu.tw/course_plan/cs_cont_menu.aspx.
To find all courses offered by the Psychology Department, follow these steps:
  1. Go to the Fo Guang University course website.
  2. Enter the search page (no login required).
  3. Select the current academic year and semester.
  4. Choose either "Undergraduate Courses" or "Master’s Program Courses."
  5. Select the "College of Social Sciences" category.
  6. Choose "Psychology Department Undergraduate Program" or "Psychology Department Master's Program."
  7. You will be able to view all courses offered in that semester.


 Issues Related to Course Enrollment and English Proficiency


Q1: Does the Psychology Department use textbooks in the original language or in Chinese? Can I keep up with the course if my English is not good?

A:Most of the textbooks used in our department are in the original language (English), but don't worry too much. Most of the professors provide Chinese explanations in their PowerPoint slides during lectures. If you prefer to use textbooks in Chinese, you can find them in the library or ask the course instructor or teaching assistants for recommendations on Chinese textbooks, which you can then purchase on your own. We had a student in our department who started with an English proficiency level of only 7 points, but through the English courses arranged by the department and the university, this student successfully participated in the 2+2 program with Western University in the United States.


IV. Life and Administration at Fo Guang University

 School Administration and Management
Q1: Will the tuition fees be very expensive?

A:Our university receives support from the Fo Guang Shan system, which provides financial aid, making the tuition fees for undergraduate students comparable to those of public universities. However, if you do not attend classes or fail the courses, your eligibility for financial aid will be canceled. For detailed information, please refer to the "Fo Guang University Undergraduate Financial Aid Regulations" on the Office of Student Affairs' website.

Q2: What additional scholarships can I apply for?

A:Our university offers various scholarships and financial assistance, including the "Sheng Yun Award," "Book Roll Award," and many other scholarships from both internal and external sources. Additionally, students can inquire about work-study opportunities at different offices. For more details, please refer to the "Scholarship and Financial Aid Handbook" to learn about the available scholarships.

Q3:What is the Fo Guang IDP system?

A:The Fo Guang IDP system is the "Individual Development Plan (IDP)" system. It is a course planning system that allows students to understand which courses they need to take during their four years at university and provides the ability to plan their course schedule in advance, enhancing their course selection priority.

Q4:How can I check the latest courses offered by the Psychology Department?

A:All courses can be found on the Fo Guang University course website: https://selcourse2.fgu.edu.tw/course_plan/cs_cont_menu.aspx
To check all courses offered by the department, follow these steps:
Go to the Fo Guang University course website.
Enter the course search (no login required).
Select the academic year and semester.
Choose "Undergraduate Courses" or "Master's Courses."
Under "College of Social Sciences," select "Psychology Department - Undergraduate" or "Psychology Department - Master's."
You will be able to see all the courses offered for that semester.

Q5:How many credits can I take each semester?

A:The maximum number of credits that can be taken per semester is 27. If you need to take more than 27 credits, you must fill out an over-credit application form.

Q6:How can I apply for credit exemptions?

A:Students may apply for credit exemptions for courses they have completed before entering the university. These courses should be from public universities, accredited private universities, or institutions that meet the Ministry of Education’s standards, including online courses (but excluding extension education). Students should apply, and upon review and approval by the department and the Office of Academic Affairs, credit exemptions may be granted. For more information, refer to Fo Guang University's credit exemption regulations.
Fo Guang University Credit Exemption: https://academic.fgu.edu.tw/zh_tw/HOME/page201/page201_3

Q7:What extracurricular learning activities are available in the department?

A:The department frequently organizes psychology-related activities, including:

  • Psychology camps, allowing high school students to explore Fo Guang University’s Psychology Department and engage in simple counseling activities, such as outdoor games.
  • Psychology Week, where students can apply what they have learned by introducing psychology to students from other departments.
  • The department also organizes regular lectures, workshops, thesis review meetings, end-of-semester exhibitions, and learning activity weeks, providing students with a variety of extracurricular learning opportunities.

Q8:Are there many student clubs at the university?

A:The university offers a variety of student clubs, including:

  • Autonomous clubs (e.g., department associations, student government).
  • Service-oriented clubs (e.g., volunteer service teams, goodwill ambassador).
  • Recreational clubs (e.g., dance clubs, ballroom dancing clubs).
  • Academic and arts clubs (e.g., guitar club, coffee club).
  • Sports clubs (e.g., kendo club, cycling club).
  • Social clubs (e.g., game clubs, networking clubs).

Q9:What resources does the university provide, such as exchange student programs?

A:The university offers various programs, including the Taiwan-US dual degree program, short-term study abroad programs, exchange student programs, and opportunities for overseas research and short-term study. For more information on these programs, please visit the Office of International and Cross-Strait Affairs.

Q10:Where can Fo Guang University students go for exchange programs?

A:Students can participate in exchange programs in countries like China, Japan, the United States, Australia, South Korea, and more. For detailed information, visit the Office of International and Cross-Strait Affairs.

Q11:Is Fo Guang University a religiously managed institution?

A:No, Fo Guang University is a general university founded by Fo Guang Shan. The university's systems and structures are similar to those of other general universities, and there is no religious affiliation or requirement within the departments.

Q12:Do students at Fo Guang University have to be vegetarian?

A:There is no requirement for students or faculty members to be vegetarian. The university has vegetarian restaurants and bakeries, as well as restaurants offering non-vegetarian food, so students who prefer meat can find suitable options.


Transportation


Q1:Can I ride a motorcycle or drive to campus?

A:Since Fo Guang University is located in the Linmei Mountain area, the access roads are winding, and many first-year students are newly licensed drivers who may not be very familiar with road conditions, the university has regulations restricting first-year undergraduate students from applying for an electronic vehicle access pass (unless they are over 20 years old and have held a driver's license for more than a year, or if they have both a driver's license and a disability handbook). The university provides a shuttle bus service, including regular buses that travel between Fo Guang University and Jiaoxi, as well as between Fo Guang University and Yilan. The number of buses may be increased based on demand. Additionally, the Green 11 bus route is available, and it is more convenient to take this bus on weekends.

Q2:Can I use an EasyCard to ride the campus shuttle?

A:The university shuttle buses currently only accept iPass (一卡通). Fo Guang University also sells a special version of the iPass at the Yunqi Building.

Q3:Where is Fo Guang University located?

A:Our university is located in Jiaoxi Township, Yilan County, not in Fo Guang Mountain in Kaohsiung.

Q4:Where is the Department of Psychology located?

A:The Department of Psychology is located on the 5th floor of Yunhui Building. Some classrooms and laboratories are located on the 1st floor of Yunhui Building.


Life and Accommodation


Q1:Is it mandatory for freshmen to stay in the dormitory?

A:The current school policy allows freshmen to stay in the dormitory, but if students have valid reasons (such as being from the Yilan area), they can apply to not stay in the dormitory. Since the application deadlines vary each semester, please check with your class advisor or the Student Affairs Office for detailed information.

Q2:How is the dormitory environment?

A:The dormitories at our school offer both two-person and four-person rooms. Each room has its own independent bathroom with separated wet and dry areas, and the space is quite sufficient. Each floor is equipped with a washing machine, dryer, dehydration machine, water dispenser, and clothes drying area. Last year, a small kitchen with a microwave was also added, and there are some cooking utensils available for use. Additionally, there is a refrigerator on the second floor for storing items. For more details, please refer to the Student Affairs Office's Dormitory and Housing Information.

Q3:How are the relationships with faculty members and seniors in the department?

A:Our department is well-known for its unity and the familial bond between students and faculty. The student association regularly organizes events to foster relationships among juniors and seniors, such as a semester-end dinner and a teaching improvement meeting at the end of each semester.

V. Questions on Suitable Studying and Career Planning


Personality Traits Suitable for Studying Psychology


Q1:What basic skills or personality traits are required to study psychology?

A:The Department of Psychology at Fo Guang University is part of the College of Social Sciences. Most of our students come from the first-category group, with admissions based on the annual university entrance examination guidelines. Since psychology is closely related to natural sciences, we welcome students from the natural science category as well. Psychology spans both natural and social sciences, focusing on understanding human behavior and mental processes. It studies the brain, behavior, child development, social behavior in adults, as well as human relationships and interactions. People with a variety of interests and traits can explore psychology. Therefore, we do not limit admissions to a specific category. Regardless of the skills or personality traits you have, you can explore the field of psychology. We welcome you to join our psychology family!

Q2:If I am good at listening to others, does that mean I am suited to study psychology?

A:While it is great that people are willing to confide in you, this does not necessarily mean you will enjoy the training in psychology. Being empathetic and being trained in psychology are two different things. To determine whether psychology is right for you, you need to consider more factors, such as your understanding of your own personality or abilities (stress management, problem-solving skills), your interest in exploring human behavior and mental processes, and whether you are willing to invest time in learning the various training courses in psychology (even if it includes challenging subjects such as statistics or reading English textbooks).

Q3:Should I choose education, cognition, perception, business, counseling, or clinical psychology?

A:For freshmen, it may be a bit too early to choose between counseling or clinical psychology. It is recommended to explore the field by taking courses. The department also offers a career planning course for freshmen, which is highly recommended to take. Besides the course content, faculty members from various psychology specialties will share their experiences, helping students more clearly decide on their future direction.


What Comes After Graduating with a Degree in Psychology?


Q1:Do I need to pursue a graduate degree after graduating from university?

A:If you wish to become a licensed clinical psychologist or counselor, you will need to complete a master's program in clinical or counseling psychology and take the licensing exam. Alternatively, if you are interested in academic research in psychology, you can pursue further studies in the related fields.

Q2:Where can I work after graduating from Fo Guang University?

A:Fo Guang University collaborates with many well-known enterprises, providing internship opportunities during your studies. If you perform well during the internship, there is a good chance of being offered a job directly at the company you interned with after graduation.

Q3:What career paths are available after studying psychology?

A:Psychology offers many career possibilities. You can work as a counselor/clinical psychologist, school counselor, or in human resources in business. The Ministry of Health and Welfare also offers relevant jobs (e.g., drug/smoking prevention, case manager). You may also work in research labs, providing therapy to people of different age groups, using various forms such as counseling, behavior therapy, occupational therapy, music, and art therapy. If you are interested in consumer or user behavior, you can work in research teams for software or hardware development companies, or take psychological testing positions in government jobs. You may also enter academia or education as a research assistant or teaching assistant. Google, for instance, has 62 job categories related to psychology, including user experience, behavioral analysis, product and market analysis, and data analysis. In short, because psychology is the science of studying human behavior and mental processes, "wherever there are people, psychology is needed!"
For undergraduate students who do not plan to pursue research, clinical, or counseling careers, the department is actively helping to expand possible career development paths, including: 1. In addition to "educational psychology" practical courses, we are planning a "post-school care staff training program"; 2. Starting in the second semester of 2024, we will offer "Family and Gender Psychology" as the foundation for "Family Education Professional Personnel" certification; 3. In the first semester of 2025, we plan to offer "Ecopsychology," which can lead to careers in adventure, horticultural therapy, and more.

For further details, visit our department’s future career development webpage or the Lanyang Psychology Information Website.

 


Q:What should I do if I have further related questions?

A:You can contact the department secretary for more information at 03-9871000 ext. 27101 or email us at psychology@mail.fgu.edu.tw.