The Faculty of Psychology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) welcomed 127 new graduate students for the 2026/2027 Academic Year through the New Student Academic Orientation (OAMABA), which began at Hall D of the Faculty of Psychology UGM on Monday (August 10). The opening and joint orientation session was attended by students from three study programs: 48 students from the Professional Psychology Education Program, 69 students from the Master’s Program in Psychology, and 10 students from the Doctoral Program in Psychology.
“We always emphasize the selection process to ensure that expectations are aligned between your expectations and those of the faculty,” said Rahmat.
Dean of the Faculty of Psychology UGM, Rahmat Hidayat, S.Psi., M.Sc., Ph.D., explained that the new students had undergone lengthy and rigorous selection processes at their respective levels. For the Professional Psychology Education Program, the selection process included a written examination, interview, and a two-month bridging course. Meanwhile, the Master’s Program in Psychology conducted written examinations and interviews, while applicants to the Doctoral Program in Psychology underwent a longer selection process, including initial discussions and consultations with prospective supervisors.
“Through this occasion, the Faculty of Psychology UGM formally welcomes and receives you with great pride and gratitude, as well as appreciation for the trust you have placed in the Faculty of Psychology as the place where you will grow and develop,” Rahmat said.
Rahmat also outlined the expected study duration for each program. The Professional Psychology Education Program is expected to be completed in three semesters, followed by a competency examination. The Master’s Program is expected to be completed within three to four semesters, while the Doctoral Program has an eight-semester curriculum, with students expected to reach their doctoral promotion stage by the seventh semester.
During the joint session, students received various materials to help them become familiar with the academic environment of the Faculty of Psychology UGM, including an introduction to UGM, academic ethics, faculty orientation, and an introduction to various faculty units.
“God willing, we will become a family that supports one another,” Rahmat said.
Following the joint sessions, OAMABA activities continued separately within each study program. In the Professional Psychology Education Program, for example, the orientation included First Step Together, a curriculum review, discussions on expectations for professional psychology students, course registration, an introduction to the academic information system, and an outbound activity.
Through OAMABA, new students are expected to become familiar with the faculty environment from the beginning of their studies. The orientation serves as part of the students’ adaptation process as they embark on their learning and academic journey at the Faculty of Psychology UGM.
Writer & Photos: Erna Tri Nofiyana