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Welcome Speech by the Department Chair/Vice Chair
Dear Freshmen,
Welcome to the Department of Social Work at Asia University!
Our department, established in 2001, upholds the philosophy of Asia University: “Health, Care, Innovation, and Excellence.” We are devoted to cultivating social work professionals who are warm, empathetic, sincere, and equipped with both professional competence and innovative energy. Since our founding, we have continually refined our teaching and strengthened our connection to practical work, establishing an excellent reputation and a robust departmental culture.
Our faculty team is highly qualified, with many holding doctoral degrees in social work, social welfare, counseling, sociology, psychology, or adult education. They are passionate educators who provide well-designed courses and internship programs, along with open and responsive channels for student feedback. Our curriculum meets the requirements set by the Ministry of Examination for the Social Worker License Exam and, in line with current trends, offers two major professional tracks: “Child and Family” and “Medical and Mental Health.” Through diverse internship opportunities, students can choose placements based on their interests in areas such as government agencies, child and family services, domestic violence prevention, schools, the judiciary, hospitals, long-term care, disability services, community work, and nonprofit organizations—bridging classroom learning with real-world practice and laying a solid foundation for future careers.
Our department is also rich in distinctive features. First, we continue to expand international development opportunities, enabling students to participate in overseas volunteer services and internships. In recent years, our programs have expanded to Japan and India, fostering greater cross-cultural understanding and enhancing global mobility. Second, our strong collaboration with both public and private sectors provides students and alums with valuable hands-on experiences and career opportunities, while also helping faculty integrate teaching, research, and the latest trends in social welfare.
Moreover, our faculty actively mentors students in applying for research projects funded by the National Science Foundation and the National Science and Technology Council. The number of proposals and approved projects ranks among the top social work departments nationwide, fostering students’ critical thinking and independent research abilities. We also offer professional license counseling, promote interdisciplinary learning, and help students expand their career development and competitiveness.
In terms of academic and personal support, the department has established a comprehensive mentorship system, including class advisors, mentoring programs, and career guidance. These provide assistance and companionship from course selection to career planning. The Department of Social Work at Asia University takes pride in its “teacher-as-mentor-and-friend” culture, maintaining close bonds even after graduation. Alums from different years stay connected through student associations, clubs, sports teams, and family-based mentoring systems. From the first class to the present, our alumni have consistently demonstrated strong loyalty and a deep sense of identity with the department, earning high recognition in their professional fields—something we take great pride in.
Social work is a helping profession and a calling that honors the value of life. In this fast-changing world, it allows us to find meaning and stability while promoting social harmony. Over the next four years, we will accompany you through learning, internships, challenges, and personal growth—exploring and practicing social care together, and nurturing you to become compassionate, justice-oriented, and professionally competent social workers.
Head of Social Work Department
Chen Mei-Zhi
August 11, 2025
