Applied Psychology

In an era where mental health has become a global concern, Applied Psychology stands out as a highly practical and career-oriented discipline. If you're seeking a field of study that balances academic depth with social impact, this could be your ideal path.

Program Overview

Applied Psychology is an important branch of psychology that focuses on studying human mental activities and behavioral patterns. It explores mechanisms behind individual differences, social behavior, cognitive processes, and personality development. 

The core value of this discipline lies in applying psychological theories and methods across various fields such as education, healthcare, justice, human resources, and corporate management to solve real-world problems and serve societal development.

Training Objectives

This program aims to cultivate high-level talents in applied psychology with a global perspective, solid theoretical foundation, and strong practical skills. Students are expected to master systematic psychological theories, develop capabilities in scientific research, psychological assessment, counseling, and intervention, and adapt to the demands of psychological services in multicultural contexts.

Specific requirements include:

• Mastery of core concepts and fundamental theories in psychology
• Proficiency in research methods and statistical techniques
• Strong ability in independent thinking, analysis, and problem-solving
• Solid skills in cross-cultural communication and professional English
• Healthy psychological quality and strong interpersonal skills

Who is Suitable for This Major?

This major is especially suitable for students who:

• Are passionate about understanding human psychology and social issues
• Enjoy listening, helping others, and show strong empathy
• Wish to work in education, healthcare, human resources, counseling, law, or research
• Possess logical thinking, analytical, and communication skills
• Care about mental health, personal growth, and community development

If you’re looking for a field that allows both self-development and the ability to support others, Applied Psychology is the right choice.

Study Mode and Duration

• Duration: 2 years
• Mode: Full-time or part-time (depending on university arrangement)

Curriculum

Professional Practice

Professional practice includes three parts: course-based internships, institutional internships, and research internships.

• Course-based Internship: Conducted alongside compulsory and elective courses during the first academic year, including summer term. Not credited independently but contributes to total internship hours.
• Institutional Internship: Scheduled during holidays or early second year. Minimum duration: 3 months. Students must submit a detailed internship plan and apply for approval. Supervised by both university instructors and field mentors. A report of no less than 3,000 words must be submitted upon completion and graded on a five-tier scale (Excellent, Good, Average, Pass, Fail) for 3 credits.
• Research Internship: Conducted in the first and early second academic years. Minimum duration: 3 months. Students are required to complete research tasks and publish a journal article. Graded by advisor for 1 credit.

Training Model

• Multidimensional Curriculum:
  The program integrates theoretical knowledge, methodological training, and practical skills through structured core courses, seminars, and hands-on workshops.
• Dual-Mentorship System:
  Students are guided by academic advisors (university-based) and external mentors (industry-based) for academic research, project planning, and practical experience. Teaching faculty include in-house professors, industry experts, and international scholars.
• Career Development Support:
  A dedicated guidance team supports students with career planning and internship consultations.

Research Directions

• Social Psychology
• Human Resource Management and Talent Assessment
• Psychological Counseling and Behavioral Correction

Degree Conferment

Students who complete the required credits and successfully defend their thesis will be awarded a Master's Degree in Applied Psychology upon approval by the academic degree committee.

Career Prospects

Graduates can pursue careers in:

• Education: Psychological guidance, student support
• Healthcare: Counseling, mental health intervention
• Corporate: HR management, employee wellbeing
• Legal and Judicial Systems: Criminal profiling, rehabilitation
• Research and NGOs: Academic research, program coordination

Related Majors

• Basic Psychology
• Educational Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Social Work and Policy

Leading Universities in China in This Field

1. Peking University
2. East China Normal University
3. South China Normal University
4. Tianjin Normal University
5. Renmin University of China
6. Nanjing Normal University
7. Southwest University
8. Central China Normal University
9. Southwest Jiaotong University
10. Shaanxi Normal University

Evaluation of the Applied Psychology Major

Applied Psychology is an integration of scientific theory and real-world practice. The program not only equips students with foundational knowledge in psychology but also practical skills in assessment, counseling, and intervention across various settings—schools, businesses, healthcare institutions, communities, and legal systems.

As China expands its educational landscape, many universities are now offering strong Master's programs in Applied Psychology, featuring expert faculty, well-structured training, and abundant internship opportunities. Earning a Master’s degree in Applied Psychology from a Chinese university helps students enhance their expertise and opens doors to multicultural career paths.

The above provides an overview of the Master’s program inApplied Psychology. Visit the “Major Search” section to explore more details about study programs in China!

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