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M-SC in Psychology at GITAM (Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management)
Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Psychology at GITAM (Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management) Visakhapatnam?
This M.Sc. Psychology program at GITAM, Visakhapatnam, focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, cognition, and emotion. It offers a strong foundation in psychological theories and research methodologies, preparing students for diverse roles in India''''s growing mental health and HR sectors. The program''''s blend of core and elective subjects allows for specialized learning, addressing the increasing demand for skilled psychologists.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in Psychology or related fields like Nursing or Social Work, seeking entry into the mental health domain. It also caters to working professionals aiming to upskill in counselling, clinical, or organizational psychology, and career changers transitioning into psychology-centric roles within wellness or HR industries. Strong analytical and empathetic skills are beneficial for applicants.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including roles as counsellors, clinical psychologists (after further training), HR specialists, researchers, or educators. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in hospitals, NGOs, schools, corporate HR departments, and private practice, aligning with the rising awareness of mental health in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Core Theoretical Understanding- (Semester 1)
Deeply engage with foundational psychological theories (Cognitive, Psychopathology, Social). Form study groups, discuss case studies, and relate classroom learning to real-world scenarios. Prioritize understanding concepts over rote memorization to build a strong base for advanced topics.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Academic journals, Online psychology resources like Simply Psychology, Peer discussion groups
Career Connection
A robust theoretical foundation is critical for effective application in all psychological domains, from therapy to research, enhancing analytical and problem-solving skills.
Master Foundational Research & Statistics- (Semester 1)
Actively participate in statistics and research methods labs. Practice data analysis using software like SPSS. Volunteer for small research projects with faculty to gain practical experience in data collection and preliminary analysis. Focus on understanding the interpretation of statistical results.
Tools & Resources
SPSS software, Online tutorials (e.g., YouTube channels for statistics in psychology), Research article reviews, GITAM library databases
Career Connection
Strong quantitative and research skills are highly valued in academic research, market analysis, and evidence-based practice roles, providing a competitive edge.
Develop Basic Psychological Assessment Skills- (Semester 1)
Focus on understanding the principles and ethics of psychological testing during Practicum I. Practice administering basic intelligence and personality tests under supervision. Pay close attention to test interpretation and ethical considerations, especially regarding cultural sensitivity in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Psychological test manuals, Practicum guides, Ethical guidelines from Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists, Mock assessment sessions
Career Connection
Competence in basic assessment is essential for entry-level roles in psychological screening, educational guidance, and initial client assessment in various settings.
Intermediate Stage
Deepen Specialization Knowledge- (Semester 2)
As courses become more specialized (e.g., Advanced Statistics, Biological Basis of Behavior), explore how these integrate with core psychology. Seek out supplementary materials, webinars, or online courses related to areas like neuroscience or advanced quantitative methods to broaden understanding.
Tools & Resources
Advanced textbooks, Online learning platforms (e.g., edX, Coursera for neuroscience courses), Academic conferences, Specialized journals
Career Connection
A deeper, interdisciplinary understanding strengthens expertise, preparing students for more complex roles in clinical settings, neuropsychology, or specialized research.
Refine Advanced Assessment & Practicum Skills- (Semester 2)
Build upon Semester 1 practicum by engaging in more complex assessment techniques (e.g., projective tests, neuropsychological screening) in Practicum II. Practice writing comprehensive psychological reports and case formulations. Seek regular feedback from supervisors to hone practical skills.
Tools & Resources
Advanced test kits (under supervision), Case study analyses, Peer review sessions, Supervisor feedback
Career Connection
Advanced assessment skills are critical for clinical and counselling roles, enabling thorough diagnosis, treatment planning, and effective client management in diverse healthcare settings.
Network and Explore Career Avenues- (Semester 2)
Start attending psychology-related seminars, workshops, and career fairs hosted by GITAM or other professional bodies in India. Network with faculty, alumni, and professionals in fields like counselling, HR, or clinical psychology. Explore potential internship opportunities for the upcoming year.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional psychology associations (e.g., IPA), Career services at GITAM, Industry events
Career Connection
Early networking helps in identifying potential mentors, understanding industry trends, and securing internships or job placements post-graduation.
Advanced Stage
Master Counselling & Intervention Techniques- (Semester 3-4)
In Semesters 3 and 4, actively participate in Practicum III & IV focusing on counselling skills and interventions. Practice various therapeutic approaches (CBT, psychodynamic, humanistic) through role-playing and mock sessions. Seek external training or certifications in specific intervention techniques if possible.
Tools & Resources
Counselling skills manuals, Therapy demonstration videos, Supervised client interaction (if available), Workshops on specific therapeutic modalities
Career Connection
Hands-on mastery of intervention techniques is directly applicable to roles as counsellors, therapists, or mental health practitioners, highly sought after in hospitals and private practice.
Undertake an Impactful Project/Dissertation- (Semester 3-4)
Choose a dissertation topic that aligns with your career interests and offers practical relevance, potentially addressing a prevalent psychological issue in India. Work closely with your supervisor, meticulously plan your research, execute data collection, and produce a high-quality dissertation. Aim for publishable quality.
Tools & Resources
Research ethics guidelines, Statistical software, Academic writing guides, GITAM research support, Peer review
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases advanced research capabilities, critical thinking, and a specialized area of expertise, which can enhance job applications, especially for research or academic roles.
Specialize and Prepare for Placements- (Semester 3-4)
Strategically choose Elective subjects (e.g., Industrial & Organizational, Clinical, Positive Psychology) that align with desired career paths. Tailor your resume and interview skills to target specific job roles. Actively seek internships or entry-level positions in relevant organizations (hospitals, NGOs, corporates) and leverage GITAM''''s placement cell resources.
Tools & Resources
GITAM placement cell, Career counselling services, Mock interview platforms, LinkedIn for job searches, Industry-specific job portals
Career Connection
Strategic specialization combined with proactive placement preparation maximizes opportunities for securing rewarding roles immediately after graduation in the competitive Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A./B.Sc. in Psychology / Applied Psychology / Clinical Psychology / Human Development / Home Science / Nursing / Social Work / Human Resource Management / Industrial Relations from any recognised University with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent grade. OR B.Ed. (Special Education) from any recognised University with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent grade.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 82 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% (Theory), 50% (Practical/Project), External: 60% (Theory), 50% (Practical/Project)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22MPY101 | Cognitive Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Cognitive Psychology, Perception, Attention, Memory, Language, Problem Solving and Reasoning |
| 22MPY102 | Psychopathology I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Psychopathology, Historical Perspectives, Classification and Assessment, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia |
| 22MPY103 | Research Methods in Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Design, Sampling, Data Collection Methods, Ethical Issues in Research, Report Writing |
| 22MPY104 | Basic Statistics for Behavioral Sciences | Core | 4 | Introduction to Statistics, Measures of Central Tendency, Measures of Variability, Correlation, Regression, Probability |
| 22MPY105 | Practicum I (Psychological Testing and Assessment) | Practical | 4 | Introduction to Psychological Testing, Test Construction, Intelligence Tests, Personality Inventories, Aptitude Tests, Ethical Use of Tests |
| 22ENH101 | Communication Skills | AECC | 2 | Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication, Listening Skills, Presentation Skills, Group Discussion, Interview Skills, Report Writing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22MPY106 | Social Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Social Psychology, Social Cognition, Attitudes, Social Influence, Group Processes, Prejudice and Discrimination |
| 22MPY107 | Psychopathology II | Core | 4 | Personality Disorders, Eating Disorders, Substance-Related Disorders, Somatic Symptom Disorders, Dissociative Disorders, Childhood Disorders |
| 22MPY108 | Advanced Statistics for Behavioral Sciences | Core | 4 | Hypothesis Testing, Parametric Tests (t-test, ANOVA), Non-Parametric Tests, Chi-Square, ANCOVA, Factor Analysis |
| 22MPY109 | Biological Basis of Behavior | Core | 4 | Nervous System Structure and Function, Neurotransmitters, Endocrine System, Sensory Systems, Motor Systems, Consciousness |
| 22MPY110 | Practicum II (Advanced Psychological Testing and Assessment) | Practical | 4 | Advanced Psychometric Techniques, Projective Techniques, Neuropsychological Assessment, Forensic Assessment, Career Assessment, Report Writing |
| 22MPH102 | Human Values and Professional Ethics | AECC | 2 | Values and Ethics, Professional Ethics, Ethical Dilemmas, Integrity, Transparency, Social Responsibility |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22MPY201 | Counselling Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Counselling, Counselling Process, Theories of Counselling (Psychodynamic, Humanistic, CBT), Crisis Intervention, Group Counselling, Ethical Issues in Counselling |
| 22MPY202 | Health Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Health Psychology, Stress and Coping, Health Behaviors, Chronic Illness, Pain Management, Health Promotion |
| 22MPY203 | Psychological Interventions | Core | 4 | Introduction to Interventions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Group Therapy, Family Therapy |
| 22MPY204 | Practicum III (Counselling Skills and Intervention Techniques) | Practical | 4 | Basic Counselling Skills, Empathy, Active Listening, Interviewing Techniques, Role-Playing, Case Studies, Supervision |
| 22MPY2E1A | Industrial & Organizational Psychology (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Personnel Selection, Training & Development, Motivation, Leadership, Organizational Culture, Stress in Organizations |
| 22MPY2E1B | Clinical Psychology (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Clinical Assessment, Psychotherapy Techniques, Child Psychopathology, Health Psychology, Neuropsychology, Forensic Psychology |
| 22MPY2E1C | Educational Psychology (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Learning Theories, Motivation in Education, Intelligence, Classroom Management, Assessment in Education, Special Education |
| 22MPY2E1D | Developmental Psychology (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Lifespan Development, Cognitive Development, Social and Emotional Development, Attachment, Parenting Styles, Adolescent Development |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22MPY205 | Community Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Community Psychology, Social Justice, Prevention and Promotion, Empowerment, Program Evaluation, Social Change |
| 22MPY206 | Practicum IV (Advanced Counselling and Psychotherapy) | Practical | 4 | Advanced Therapeutic Techniques, Case Formulation, Supervision in Psychotherapy, Ethical Practices, Cross-Cultural Counselling, Professional Development |
| 22MPY299 | Project Work / Dissertation | Project | 6 | Research Proposal, Literature Review, Methodology, Data Collection, Data Analysis, Dissertation Writing, Presentation |
| 22MPY2E2A | Positive Psychology (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Well-being, Happiness, Strengths and Virtues, Resilience, Gratitude, Positive Interventions |
| 22MPY2E2B | Forensic Psychology (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Legal System, Criminal Behavior, Witness Psychology, Correctional Psychology, Risk Assessment, Competency to Stand Trial |
| 22MPY2E2C | Neuropsychology (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Brain Structure and Function, Neuropsychological Assessment, Cognitive Disorders, Rehabilitation, Neurological Disorders, Brain Imaging Techniques |
| 22MPY2E2D | Geriatric Psychology (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Aging Process, Cognitive Changes in Elderly, Mental Health in Old Age, Dementia, Caregiving, End-of-Life Issues |
