Since the 2012 academic year, Fo Guang University has adopted a modular curriculum system, organizing courses into structured programs based on their nature. This initiative has made department courses more systematic and coherent, providing students with clearer direction in course selection, enabling a step-by-step and progressive learning experience. Taking advantage of this reform, the Department of Psychology has conducted a comprehensive review of all past course offerings, integrating and restructuring them into an enhanced curriculum to provide students with higher-quality psychology education.
The core objectives of this curriculum reform include:
Aligning with the university’s founding spirit.
Implementing the department’s educational mission.
Establishing clear professional pathways for students.
Our goal is to build a strong foundation in psychological knowledge, cultivate the critical thinking and analytical skills unique to psychologists, and provide opportunities for students to explore specialized areas of interest.
However, psychology is a discipline that has evolved for over a century, with a vast and complex structure that continues to advance rapidly. Despite its broad scope and diverse branches, psychology has an inherent knowledge framework that must be learned progressively and systematically, rather than through fragmented or rushed study. To ensure effective learning outcomes, our programs include mandatory core courses and prerequisite structures to maintain a logical learning sequence.
A key reminder for students: The value of psychology lies in its fundamental theories. Only applications grounded in solid theoretical knowledge meet professional standards. This foundational understanding distinguishes psychology graduates from those in other disciplines. Regardless of your ultimate career aspirations—whether as a clinical psychologist, child development specialist, human resources expert, or advertising professional—a solid psychological foundation is essential for achieving your goals.
This curriculum restructuring incorporates these considerations. However, we encourage students to approach course selection with an open mind, free from preconceived notions or unrealistic expectations. Discuss your academic plan with your advisor to create a logical and personalized course list that best suits your development.
Education is a journey of both challenges and rewards. True growth comes from overcoming obstacles. Thus, the pathway we have designed is not one without effort, but one that encourages students to embrace challenges with determination and courage. When this modular curriculum structure is fully implemented, our faculty will be there, ready to guide you through this journey of academic and personal growth.
I. Undergraduate Program Structure
The Department of Psychology offers three major academic tracks:
- Core Theoretical and Methodological Program in Psychology
- Social, Educational, and Counseling Psychology Program
- Cognitive, Clinical, and Neuroscience Program
Core Theoretical and Methodological Program in Psychology
Includes fundamental courses such as:
- Psychology
- Statistics
- Experimental Psychology
- Psychological Testing
- Developmental Psychology
- Cognitive Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Physiological Psychology
- Perception Psychology
- Personality Psychology
Social, Educational, and Counseling Psychology Program
Covers areas including:
- Interpersonal Relationships
- Statistical Research Techniques
- Counseling Psychology
- Psychological Test Development
- Educational Psychology
- Psychometric Scales
- Psychological Knowledge Dissemination
- Ecological Psychology
- Data Analysis
- Applied Developmental Psychology Research
- Basic Counseling Techniques and Practice
- Group Counseling Theories and Techniques
- Creativity Theories and Applications
- Child Behavior Assessment and Intervention Strategies
- Child Cognitive Development Program Design
- Psychology and Human Factors Design
Cognitive, Clinical, and Neuroscience Program
Focuses on:
- Career Planning in Psychology
- Applied Statistical Research
- Introduction to Cognitive Neuroscience
- Psychological Measurement
- Experimental Psychology Techniques
- Abnormal Psychology
- Introduction to Cognition and Emotion
- Introduction to Clinical Psychology
- Applied Psychological Knowledge
- Health Psychology
- Data Analysis
- Psychopharmacology
- Addiction Behaviors
- Introduction to Thinking Psychology
- Introduction to Attention Research
II. Educational Philosophy and Approach
The Department of Psychology emphasizes "people" over mere academic, professional, or technical skills. Our education is designed to cultivate insight, critical thinking, and personal growth. Whether students are learning fundamental theories or applied knowledge, our approach encourages them to study human nature, understand others, and ultimately contribute to the well-being of society.
By providing a solid academic foundation, fostering unique psychological perspectives, and offering exposure to specialized fields, we aim to inspire curiosity and academic exploration while equipping students with valuable knowledge for their future careers.
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