

BA in Psychology at Shahid Mangal Pandey Rajkiya Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Ballia


Ballia, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Psychology at Shahid Mangal Pandey Rajkiya Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Ballia Ballia?
This Psychology program at Shahid Mangal Pandey Rajkiya Mahila Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with MGKVP, focuses on providing a foundational understanding of human behavior, mental processes, and psychological theories. In the Indian context, this program is crucial for understanding societal dynamics and mental health challenges, preparing students for diverse roles in counselling, research, and social work. It aims to foster critical thinking and empirical analysis of mind and behavior.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh 10+2 graduates with an interest in human behavior, mental health, and social sciences, seeking entry into fields like counselling, human resources, or social welfare. It also caters to individuals aiming for postgraduate studies in psychology, clinical psychology, or related disciplines, providing a strong academic base for further specialization and research in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths as counsellors, school psychologists (after further training), HR associates, social workers, or research assistants. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5-4 LPA, with significant growth potential for experienced professionals. The program aligns with the growing demand for mental health professionals and behavioral specialists in both public and private sectors across India.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Conceptual Base- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core psychological concepts like perception, learning, memory, and motivation. Utilize textbooks, reference books, and online resources for deeper insights. Form study groups to discuss and clarify complex theories and terminology.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Psychology textbooks (Class 11 & 12), Standard university textbooks (e.g., Baron, Atkinson & Hilgard), NPTEL lectures, College library access
Career Connection
A solid theoretical foundation is crucial for excelling in entrance exams for postgraduate studies and for understanding practical applications in any psychology-related field.
Develop Observational and Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Engage in active observation of human behavior in everyday settings and try to relate it to psychological principles learned. Practice critical analysis of case studies and research papers to build analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Tools & Resources
Local case study collections, Psychology journals (e.g., Indian Journal of Clinical Psychology), Documentaries on human behavior, Online academic databases
Career Connection
These skills are fundamental for research roles, effective counselling, and informed decision-making in human resource management and social work.
Participate in Departmental Activities- (Semester 1-2)
Actively join psychology department seminars, workshops, and awareness programs conducted within the college or by affiliated bodies. Volunteer for college events related to mental health or social causes to gain practical exposure and interact with faculty and peers.
Tools & Resources
College notice boards, Department email lists, Student clubs, Local community events
Career Connection
Builds networking opportunities, enhances communication skills, and provides early exposure to the practical aspects of psychology in an Indian academic and social context.
Intermediate Stage
Seek Early Internship/Volunteering Opportunities- (Semester 3-5 (during summer breaks or part-time))
Look for short-term internships or volunteering roles at local NGOs, community centers, schools, or hospitals. Even a few weeks of exposure can provide invaluable practical experience in applying psychological principles in real-world settings.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, LinkedIn, College placement cell (if available), Local NGO directories, Social media groups
Career Connection
Practical exposure validates theoretical knowledge, builds a professional network, and makes resumes more attractive for future placements or higher studies.
Engage in Minor Research Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Collaborate with faculty members on small research projects or undertake self-initiated mini-projects related to current psychological issues in India (e.g., stress among students, digital addiction, mental health stigma). Learn basic data collection and statistical analysis techniques.
Tools & Resources
SPSS (basic versions), Google Scholar, University research labs, Faculty guidance, Open-source survey tools
Career Connection
Develops research aptitude, critical thinking, and analytical skills, essential for academic careers, market research, and evidence-based policy analysis in India.
Develop Communication and Empathy Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Actively practice active listening, verbal and non-verbal communication, and empathy, which are crucial for future counselling and HR roles. Participate in role-playing exercises, debates, or communication workshops to refine these essential soft skills.
Tools & Resources
Public speaking clubs, Peer counselling initiatives, Communication skills workshops, Toastmasters (if available locally)
Career Connection
These are highly valued soft skills in all professional fields, particularly critical in psychology-related roles dealing with human interaction and understanding.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Placement/Higher Studies Preparation- (Semester 6)
Dedicate significant time to prepare for postgraduate entrance exams (e.g., CUET PG, specific university exams for MA/MSc Psychology) or job interviews. Polish your resume/CV, practice mock interviews, and work on a strong portfolio of projects and internships.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (if opting), Online test series, Career guidance cell, Alumni network, Psychology-specific interview guides
Career Connection
Directly impacts securing admission to top postgraduate programs or landing desired entry-level jobs in India''''s competitive psychology job market.
Specialized Skill Development & Certification- (Semester 6)
Identify a specific area of interest within psychology (e.g., clinical, organizational, developmental) and pursue online courses, workshops, or certifications. For instance, basic counselling skills certification, a course in psychometric testing, or child psychology workshops.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, NPTEL, Udemy, Specialized institutes offering short-term courses (e.g., in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy basics), Psychology associations
Career Connection
These certifications add significant value to your profile, making you more competitive for specialized roles and demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning in a specific psychological domain.
Build a Professional Network- (Semester 6)
Actively connect with alumni, faculty, and professionals in the field through platforms like LinkedIn, professional psychology associations (e.g., Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists), and industry events. Attend career fairs and seminars to expand your contacts.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional conferences/webinars, Alumni meets, University career services, Industry networking events
Career Connection
A strong network opens doors to job opportunities, mentorship, collaborative projects, and provides insights into industry trends, crucial for long-term career growth in the Indian professional landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) or equivalent from a recognized board
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 144 (approximate, as per NEP 2020 guidelines for 3-year UG programs) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (for theory papers), 50% (for practical papers), External: 75% (for theory papers), 50% (for practical papers)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology (मनोविज्ञान का परिचय) | Core/Major | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope and Goals of Psychology, Methods of Psychology (Observation, Experimental, Correlational), Biological Basis of Behavior (Nervous System, Endocrine Glands), Sensation, Perception, Attention, Learning and Memory, Motivation and Emotion, Intelligence and Personality |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSY201 | Social Psychology (सामाजिक मनोविज्ञान) | Core/Major | 4 | Nature, Scope and Methods of Social Psychology, Social Perception and Cognition, Attitudes: Formation, Change, Measurement, Social Influence: Conformity, Obedience, Persuasion, Prejudice and Discrimination, Interpersonal Attraction and Relationships, Aggression and Prosocial Behavior |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSY301 | Developmental Psychology (विकासात्मक मनोविज्ञान) | Core/Major | 4 | Nature, Scope and Methods of Developmental Psychology, Theories of Development (Piaget, Erikson, Freud), Prenatal Development and Infancy, Childhood: Cognitive, Social and Emotional Development, Adolescence: Physical, Cognitive and Socio-emotional Changes, Adulthood and Aging |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSY401 | Abnormal Psychology (असामान्य मनोविज्ञान) | Core/Major | 4 | Concept of Abnormality: Historical and Modern Perspectives, Classification of Mental Disorders (DSM-5, ICD-10), Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Substance-Related Disorders, Causes of Abnormal Behavior (Biological, Psychological, Sociocultural) |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSY501 | Cognitive Psychology (संज्ञानात्मक मनोविज्ञान) | Core/Major Elective | 4 | Introduction to Cognitive Psychology, Attention and Perception, Memory Systems and Processes, Language and Thought, Problem Solving and Decision Making, Artificial Intelligence and Cognition |
| PSY502 | Psychology Practical I (मनोविज्ञान प्रयोगात्मक I) | Lab/Practical | 2 | Introduction to Psychological Testing, Intelligence Tests (e.g., Raven''''s Progressive Matrices), Personality Inventories (e.g., Eysenck Personality Questionnaire), Attitude Scales, Memory Experiments, Attention Span Measurement |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSY601 | Counselling Psychology (परामर्श मनोविज्ञान) | Core/Major Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of Counselling Psychology, Counselling Process and Skills, Theories of Counselling (Client-Centered, Gestalt, CBT), Ethical Issues in Counselling, Types of Counselling (Individual, Group, Family), Applications of Counselling |
| PSY602 | Psychology Practical II (मनोविज्ञान प्रयोगात्मक II) | Lab/Practical | 2 | Advanced Psychological Testing, Adjustment Inventories, Emotional Intelligence Scales, Creativity Tests, Social Influence Experiments, Research Project/Dissertation in Psychology |




