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B-A in Psychology at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Psychology at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This B.A. Psychology program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on building a strong theoretical foundation and practical skills in various domains of psychology. It covers core areas like cognitive, developmental, social, and abnormal psychology, alongside research methods and psychological testing. The curriculum is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled mental health professionals and researchers in India, offering a blend of academic rigor and applied knowledge.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 graduates with a keen interest in human behavior, mental processes, and societal interactions. It caters to aspiring psychologists, counselors, researchers, and human resource professionals. Individuals seeking a strong undergraduate base before pursuing master''''s degrees in clinical, counseling, or industrial psychology, or those interested in careers in social work, education, or public health, will find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including junior counselor, research assistant, HR executive, social worker, or special educator. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with significant growth trajectories for those pursuing higher education and specialized certifications. The program equips students with critical thinking, research, and interpersonal skills crucial for success in mental health and allied fields.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Psychological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with foundational theories in general psychology, developmental, and social psychology. Form study groups to discuss complex concepts, utilize flashcards for definitions, and seek clarification from professors during office hours. This solid base is crucial for understanding advanced topics and building a strong academic record.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Academic journals like Indian Journal of Psychological Science, Peer study groups, Professor office hours
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals helps in competitive exams for higher studies (e.g., UGC NET, entrance exams for MA/M.Sc Psychology) and provides the vocabulary needed for entry-level roles in research or counseling support.
Develop Essential Research and Statistical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to ''''Statistics in Psychology'''' and ''''Psychology Practical'''' courses. Practice data analysis using statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R) and understand research methodologies. Engage in basic data collection exercises and learn report writing for experiments. Participate in campus workshops on research tools.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R software (student versions), Online tutorials (e.g., Coursera, YouTube), Research methodology textbooks, Lab manuals
Career Connection
Proficiency in statistics and research methods is highly valued for research assistant roles, market research positions, and is indispensable for master''''s and PhD studies in psychology.
Enhance Life Skills and Personal Well-being- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in ''''Life Skill Courses'''' focusing on health, wellness, and digital literacy. Practice mindfulness, time management, and effective communication. Leverage university counseling services if needed. These skills contribute to overall academic performance and personal resilience in the demanding field of psychology.
Tools & Resources
University counseling center, Mindfulness apps (e.g., Calm, Headspace), Time management apps, Campus workshops on soft skills
Career Connection
Strong communication and self-management skills are transferable to any professional role, particularly in people-centric fields like HR, counseling, and social work in India.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Practical Application and Elective Specialization- (Semester 3-5)
Deep dive into ''''Psychology Practical'''' courses by actively participating in assessments and experiments. Choose electives strategically based on your career interests (e.g., Health Psychology for clinical focus, I/O Psychology for corporate). Seek opportunities to shadow professionals or volunteer in relevant settings to gain real-world exposure.
Tools & Resources
Psychological testing kits, Case studies, Departmental seminars, Networking with faculty and alumni
Career Connection
Practical experience and specialized knowledge from electives directly enhance your resume for internships and entry-level positions in your chosen sub-field within India.
Build a Research Portfolio and Network- (Semester 3-5)
Collaborate with faculty on minor research projects or write comprehensive review papers on topics of interest. Present your findings at college-level seminars or poster sessions. Attend psychology conferences or workshops to network with professionals and peers. Initiate discussions with professors about their research interests.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research labs, Academic writing guides, Conference directories, LinkedIn for professional networking
Career Connection
A strong research portfolio and professional network significantly boost your chances for admission to competitive master''''s programs and research roles in Indian universities and research organizations.
Develop Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in discussions in subjects like ''''Cognitive Psychology'''' and ''''Abnormal Psychology''''. Practice analyzing case studies and applying psychological theories to real-world problems. Join debate clubs or critical thinking workshops to sharpen your analytical abilities, crucial for both academic and professional success.
Tools & Resources
Case study books, Online problem-solving exercises, Debate societies, Critical thinking textbooks
Career Connection
These skills are fundamental for any career path, enabling effective decision-making and innovative solutions, highly valued by Indian employers in various sectors from HR to healthcare.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Project/Internship- (Semester 5-6)
For your ''''Psychology Project'''' or ''''Internship'''', choose a topic or organization aligned with your career goals. Dedicate significant effort to research design, data collection, analysis, and report writing for the project, or immerse yourself fully in the practical responsibilities of an internship. Aim for a high-quality deliverable.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (JSTOR, PubMed), Statistical software, Internship portals (Internshala, Naukri), Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
A well-executed project demonstrates independent research capability, while a successful internship often leads to pre-placement offers or strong professional references for Indian organizations.
Prepare for Higher Education and Career Placement- (Semester 6)
Begin preparing for entrance exams for postgraduate programs (MA/M.Sc Psychology) or competitive job interviews. Develop a strong resume and cover letter, focusing on your psychology-specific skills and experiences. Participate in campus placement drives and mock interviews to hone your presentation and communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling services, Mock interview sessions, Online aptitude tests, Company websites for placement research
Career Connection
Proactive preparation significantly increases your chances of securing admissions to top Indian universities for further studies or landing desirable jobs in the competitive Indian market post-graduation.
Cultivate Ethical Practice and Professionalism- (Semester 6)
Internalize the ethical guidelines discussed in ''''Counseling and Psychotherapy'''' and ''''Psychological Testing''''. Practice professional communication and maintain confidentiality in all practical work. Understand the legal and ethical frameworks governing psychology practice in India, ensuring you are a responsible and trustworthy professional.
Tools & Resources
Ethics codes for psychologists (e.g., APA, Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists), Professional development workshops, Mentorship from practicing psychologists
Career Connection
Adherence to ethical standards is non-negotiable in mental health and counseling professions, building trust and credibility essential for long-term career success and client well-being in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates who have passed 10+2 / HSC / CBSE / ICSE or equivalent examination with a minimum of 50% aggregate.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18LEH101T | English | Core | 3 | Reading and Comprehension, Writing Skills, Listening and Speaking, Grammar and Vocabulary, Literary Appreciation |
| 21LAD101T | Environmental Science | Core | 3 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Natural Resources Management, Climate Change and Global Issues, Sustainable Development Goals |
| 21LAD102T | Introduction to Psychology | Core | 4 | Definition and Goals of Psychology, Schools of Thought, Research Methods in Psychology, Biological Basis of Behavior, Sensation and Perception, States of Consciousness |
| 21LAD103T | General Psychology I | Core | 4 | Learning Theories, Memory Processes, Cognition and Thinking, Intelligence Theories, Motivation and Emotion |
| 21LAD104T | Psychology Practical I | Core | 2 | Introduction to Psychological Experimentation, Data Collection Methods, Report Writing Format, Experiments on Attention, Experiments on Perception and Memory |
| 21LAD105T | Life Skill Course-I (Health and Wellness) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Physical Health and Fitness, Mental Health Awareness, Stress Management Techniques, Healthy Lifestyle Choices, Nutrition Basics |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18LEH102T | Advanced English | Core | 3 | Advanced Reading Strategies, Academic Writing Skills, Critical Thinking and Analysis, Presentation Techniques, Professional Communication |
| 21LAD201T | General Psychology II | Core | 4 | Developmental Stages Across Lifespan, Personality Theories, Introduction to Social Psychology, Abnormal Behavior Introduction, Therapeutic Approaches Overview |
| 21LAD202T | Statistics in Psychology | Core | 4 | Descriptive Statistics, Measures of Central Tendency and Variability, Inferential Statistics Basics, Probability and Sampling, Hypothesis Testing, Correlation and Regression |
| 21LAD203T | Psychology Practical II | Core | 2 | Introduction to Statistical Software, Data Analysis Techniques, Basic Research Design, Administration of Aptitude Tests, Intelligence and Personality Assessment |
| 21LAD204T | Life Skill Course-II (Digital and Financial Literacy) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Digital Tools and Resources, Cyber Security and Ethics, Personal Financial Planning, Investment Basics, Entrepreneurial Mindset |
| 21LAD205L | Value Added Course-I (Mindfulness and Meditation) | Value Added | 1 | Introduction to Mindfulness, Basic Meditation Techniques, Stress Reduction through Mindfulness, Emotional Regulation Practices, Benefits of Mindful Living |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21LAD301T | Developmental Psychology | Core | 4 | Theories of Development, Prenatal Development and Infancy, Childhood and Adolescence, Adulthood and Aging, Socio-emotional Development |
| 21LAD302T | Social Psychology | Core | 4 | Social Cognition and Perception, Attitudes and Persuasion, Prejudice and Discrimination, Group Dynamics and Influence, Prosocial Behavior and Aggression |
| 21LAD303T | Abnormal Psychology I | Core | 4 | Concepts of Abnormality and Mental Illness, Classification Systems (DSM-5), Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar), Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Personality Disorders |
| 21LAD304T | Psychology Practical III | Core | 2 | Observational Methods in Research, Case Study Method, Interview Techniques, Psychological Assessment Tools, Attitude Scales and Sociometry |
| 21LAD305T | Life Skill Course-III (Critical Thinking & Problem Solving) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Logical Reasoning Skills, Problem-Solving Models, Decision Making Strategies, Creative Thinking Techniques, Argument Analysis and Evaluation |
| 21LAD3E1T / 21LAD3E2T / 21LAD3E3T | Elective I (Choose one from: Educational Psychology, Health Psychology, Industrial & Organizational Psychology) | Elective | 3 | Educational Psychology: Learning Theories, Motivation in Education, Classroom Management, Health Psychology: Stress and Illness, Health Belief Models, Coping Strategies, Industrial & Organizational Psychology: Job Analysis, Personnel Selection, Motivation at Work |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21LAD401T | Cognitive Psychology | Core | 4 | Attention and Consciousness, Perception and Pattern Recognition, Memory Systems and Processes, Problem Solving and Decision Making, Language Acquisition and Processing |
| 21LAD402T | Personality Psychology | Core | 4 | Psychodynamic Theories (Freud, Jung), Humanistic Theories (Rogers, Maslow), Trait Theories (Big Five), Social-Cognitive Theories, Personality Assessment Methods |
| 21LAD403T | Abnormal Psychology II | Core | 4 | Eating Disorders, Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders, Sexual Dysfunctions and Paraphilic Disorders, Somatic Symptom Disorders, Childhood and Adolescent Disorders, Forensic Psychology Introduction |
| 21LAD404T | Psychology Practical IV | Core | 2 | Projective Techniques Administration, Psychometric Testing Principles, Ethical Guidelines in Assessment, Report Writing for Psychological Tests, Rorschach Inkblot Test, Thematic Apperception Test |
| 22LAD405T | Life Skill Course-IV (Interpersonal & Communication Skills) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Verbal and Non-verbal Communication, Active Listening Skills, Conflict Resolution Strategies, Empathy and Emotional Intelligence, Presentation and Public Speaking |
| 21LAD4E1T / 21LAD4E2T / 21LAD4E3T | Elective II (Choose one from: Counselling Psychology, Sports Psychology, Consumer Psychology) | Elective | 3 | Counselling Psychology: Counselling Process, Therapeutic Relationship, Ethical Issues, Sports Psychology: Motivation in Sports, Anxiety and Performance, Mental Training, Consumer Psychology: Consumer Behavior Models, Decision Making, Advertising Effectiveness |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21LAD501T | Biological Psychology | Core | 4 | Nervous System Structure and Function, Endocrine System and Hormones, Brain Structures and Their Roles, Neurotransmitters and Behavior, Sensory Systems and Motor Control, Biological Basis of Motivation and Emotion |
| 21LAD502T | Research Methods in Psychology | Core | 4 | Scientific Method in Psychology, Quantitative and Qualitative Research Designs, Sampling Techniques, Data Collection Tools (Surveys, Interviews), Ethical Considerations in Research, Research Report Writing |
| 21LAD503T | Psychological Testing | Core | 4 | Principles of Psychological Testing, Test Construction and Item Analysis, Reliability and Validity of Tests, Standardization and Norms, Culture and Psychological Testing, Ethical Use of Tests |
| 21LAD504T | Psychology Practical V | Core | 2 | Test Administration Protocols, Scoring and Interpretation of Tests, Psychodiagnostic Tool Usage, Ethical Practice in Assessment, Report Writing for Clinical Assessments |
| 21LAD5E1T / 21LAD5E2T / 21LAD5E3T | Elective III (Choose one from: Positive Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Geriatric Psychology) | Elective | 3 | Positive Psychology: Well-being, Happiness, Strengths, Resilience, Forensic Psychology: Criminal Behavior, Eyewitness Testimony, Correctional Psychology, Geriatric Psychology: Aging Process, Mental Health in Elderly, Caregiving |
| 21LAD5P1 / 21LAD5P2 | Project / Internship | Project/Internship | 2 | Research Proposal Development, Data Collection and Analysis (Project), Report Writing and Presentation (Project), Field Experience and Skill Application (Internship), Professional Networking (Internship) |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21LAD601T | Counseling and Psychotherapy | Core | 4 | Major Therapeutic Approaches (CBT, Psychodynamic), Humanistic and Existential Therapies, Counseling Skills and Techniques, Group Therapy and Family Counseling, Ethics in Counseling Practice |
| 21LAD602T | Health Psychology | Core | 4 | Stress and Coping Mechanisms, Health Belief Models, Psychological Factors in Illness, Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Chronic Illness and Pain Management, Behavioral Interventions |
| 21LAD603T | Organizational Behavior | Core | 4 | Individual Behavior in Organizations, Group Dynamics and Teamwork, Leadership Theories and Styles, Motivation in the Workplace, Organizational Culture and Climate, Conflict Management |
| 21LAD604P | Psychology Project | Project | 4 | Independent Research Design, Extensive Literature Review, Data Collection and Advanced Analysis, Thesis Writing and Documentation, Project Presentation and Viva Voce |
| 21LAD6E1T / 21LAD6E2T / 21LAD6E3T | Elective IV (Choose one from: Child and Adolescent Psychology, Neuropsychology, Media Psychology) | Elective | 3 | Child and Adolescent Psychology: Childhood Disorders, Developmental Psychopathology, Intervention Strategies, Neuropsychology: Brain and Behavior, Cognitive Disorders, Assessment of Brain Damage, Media Psychology: Media Effects, Persuasion, Social Media Impact |
