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M-SC 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 M.Sc. Psychology program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on building a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and mental processes. It integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills essential for diverse applications in India''''s growing mental health, corporate, and educational sectors. The program emphasizes both foundational and advanced psychological concepts, preparing students for impactful careers.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in Psychology or related fields seeking entry into clinical, counseling, or organizational psychology roles. It also suits working professionals aiming to upskill in specialized areas like health or forensic psychology, as well as career changers transitioning into the rapidly expanding mental healthcare industry in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as counselors, clinical psychologists, HR specialists, and researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15 LPA+. The program aligns with professional body guidelines for licensure, fostering growth trajectories in mental health organizations, hospitals, and corporate consultancies across India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Foundational Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus deeply on core subjects like Cognitive Psychology, Biological Psychology, and Research Methods. Actively participate in lectures, review theories, and clarify doubts promptly to establish a robust understanding of psychological principles.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, online psychology journals (e.g., PsycINFO), academic discussion forums, study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for advanced studies, research roles, and building effective interventions in clinical or organizational settings.
Excel in Psychological Testing Labs- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention during Psychological Testing Labs (Lab I & II). Master the administration, scoring, and interpretation of various psychological tests. Practice writing precise lab reports and case formulations.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, psychological test kits, SPSS/R for data analysis, sample case studies
Career Connection
Proficiency in psychological assessment is a fundamental skill for counselors, clinical psychologists, and researchers, directly impacting diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning.
Develop Effective Study Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Implement structured study routines, time management techniques, and active recall methods. Utilize university library resources and peer learning groups to discuss complex topics and prepare for examinations collaboratively.
Tools & Resources
Study planners, Pomodoro Technique, flashcards, library databases, peer mentorship
Career Connection
Efficient learning habits ensure academic success, reduce stress, and build discipline transferable to professional environments in India''''s competitive landscape.
Intermediate Stage
Gain Practical Counseling and Organizational Skills- (Semester 3)
Actively engage in role-plays and simulations during Counseling Psychology and Organizational Psychology courses. Seek opportunities for volunteer work or brief observations in related settings (e.g., NGOs, HR departments) to apply theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Counseling skills training videos, case study discussions, mock interviews for HR roles
Career Connection
Hands-on experience in these areas is highly valued by employers in counseling centers, corporate HR departments, and consulting firms in India.
Explore Elective Specializations- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose Elective subjects (Professional Electives) that align with your career interests (e.g., Educational Psychology, Criminal Psychology). Deep dive into these areas through additional reading and related projects.
Tools & Resources
Specialized textbooks, online courses on platforms like Coursera/edX related to chosen electives, industry reports
Career Connection
Specializing early helps in building a niche, making you more marketable for specific roles in education, forensic science, or clinical practice in India.
Network and Attend Workshops- (Semester 3)
Attend psychology conferences, workshops, and guest lectures organized by the department or professional bodies in India. Network with faculty, alumni, and industry professionals to explore career opportunities and mentorship.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, professional psychology associations (e.g., Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists), university career services
Career Connection
Networking is vital for internships, placements, and understanding current industry trends in India, paving the way for future collaborations.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Project Work and Research- (Semester 4)
Invest significant effort in the Project Work and Viva Voce. Choose a topic relevant to your career aspirations, conduct thorough research, apply appropriate methodologies, and develop strong presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology guides, statistical software (SPSS, R), academic writing tools, faculty mentorship
Career Connection
A well-executed project demonstrates research aptitude and problem-solving skills, highly valued in academic, research, and specialized roles in India.
Prepare for Placements and Higher Studies- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with the university''''s placement cell. Prepare a strong resume/CV, practice interview skills, and research potential employers (hospitals, NGOs, corporate firms). Consider options for further specialization or Ph.D. in India or abroad.
Tools & Resources
University placement portal, mock interview sessions, career counseling, GRE/NET preparation materials
Career Connection
Proactive placement preparation ensures successful entry into the workforce or provides a strong foundation for advanced academic pursuits, crucial for career progression in India.
Develop Professional Ethics and Soft Skills- (Semester 4)
Understand and internalize the ethical guidelines for psychologists. Cultivate crucial soft skills like empathy, active listening, critical thinking, and professional communication through various program activities and external engagements.
Tools & Resources
APA/BPS ethical guidelines (adapted for Indian context), communication workshops, peer feedback
Career Connection
Strong ethical grounding and well-developed soft skills are indispensable for building trust with clients and colleagues, leading to successful and impactful careers in psychology across diverse Indian settings.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. / B.Sc. in Psychology / Applied Psychology / Clinical Psychology / Human Development / Social Work / Counseling Psychology / Home Science / Nursing (or) Any Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum of 60% marks and two years of experience in psychology related areas will be considered.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 85 Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS21101 | Cognitive Psychology | Core | 3 | Introduction to Cognitive Psychology, Perception and Attention, Memory Systems, Language and Thought, Problem Solving and Decision Making |
| PS21102 | Biological Psychology | Core | 3 | Foundations of Biopsychology, Neural Communication, Brain Structures and Functions, Sensory and Motor Systems, Hormones and Behavior |
| PS21103 | Statistics for Psychologists | Core | 3 | Introduction to Statistics, Measures of Central Tendency and Dispersion, Probability and Distributions, Hypothesis Testing (Parametric Tests), Non-Parametric Tests |
| PS21104 | Research Methods in Psychology | Core | 3 | Nature of Psychological Research, Research Design and Sampling, Data Collection Methods, Ethical Issues in Research, Report Writing and Publication |
| PS21105 | Developmental Psychology | Core | 3 | Introduction to Developmental Psychology, Cognitive Development, Social and Emotional Development, Language Development, Adolescence and Adulthood |
| PS211L1 | Psychological Testing – Lab I | Core Lab | 2 | Principles of Psychological Testing, Test Construction and Standardization, Intelligence Testing, Personality Assessment, Aptitude and Interest Inventories |
| PS21106 | Open Elective I | Open Elective | 3 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS21201 | Social Psychology | Core | 3 | Introduction to Social Psychology, Social Cognition, Attitudes and Persuasion, Group Processes, Prosocial and Antisocial Behavior |
| PS21202 | Theories of Personality | Core | 3 | Introduction to Personality Theories, Psychodynamic Theories, Humanistic and Existential Theories, Trait Theories, Cognitive and Behavioral Theories |
| PS21203 | Psychopathology | Core | 3 | Understanding Abnormal Behavior, Anxiety and Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia and Psychotic Disorders, Personality Disorders, Childhood and Adolescent Disorders |
| PS21204 | Health Psychology | Core | 3 | Introduction to Health Psychology, Stress and Coping, Health Behavior and Promotion, Chronic Illness and Management, Psychoneuroimmunology |
| PS212L2 | Psychological Testing – Lab II | Core Lab | 2 | Advanced Intelligence Testing, Projective Techniques, Diagnostic Assessment Tools, Neuropsychological Assessment, Ethical Considerations in Testing |
| PS21205 | Elective I (Professional Elective - Choose One) | Professional Elective | 3 | Options: Human Resource Management, Sports Psychology, Consumer Psychology |
| PS212E1 | Human Resource Management | Professional Elective | 3 | Introduction to HRM, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Performance Management, Employee Relations |
| PS212E2 | Sports Psychology | Professional Elective | 3 | Introduction to Sports Psychology, Motivation and Performance, Stress and Anxiety in Sports, Team Dynamics, Mental Skills Training |
| PS212E3 | Consumer Psychology | Professional Elective | 3 | Introduction to Consumer Behavior, Consumer Decision Making, Motivation and Perception, Attitudes and Persuasion, Cross-Cultural Consumer Behavior |
| PS21206 | Open Elective II | Open Elective | 3 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS21301 | Counseling Psychology | Core | 3 | Foundations of Counseling, Counseling Process and Skills, Psychodynamic Counseling, Humanistic and Cognitive Behavioral Approaches, Ethical Issues in Counseling |
| PS21302 | Organizational Psychology | Core | 3 | Introduction to Organizational Psychology, Job Analysis and Design, Motivation and Job Satisfaction, Leadership and Management, Organizational Culture and Change |
| PS21303 | Life Skills and Well-being | Core | 3 | Introduction to Life Skills, Self-Awareness and Empathy, Communication and Interpersonal Skills, Stress Management, Decision Making and Problem Solving |
| PS21304 | Psychotherapeutics | Core | 3 | Introduction to Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Humanistic and Existential Therapies, Family and Group Therapy |
| PS213L3 | Psychological Testing – Lab III | Core Lab | 2 | Projective Tests, Clinical Interviews and Case History, Behavioral Assessment, Psychodiagnostic Formulations, Interpretation of Test Batteries |
| PS21305 | Elective II (Professional Elective - Choose One) | Professional Elective | 3 | Options: Educational Psychology, Criminal Psychology, Geriatric Psychology |
| PS213E1 | Educational Psychology | Professional Elective | 3 | Introduction to Educational Psychology, Learning Theories, Motivation in Education, Classroom Management, Assessment and Evaluation |
| PS213E2 | Criminal Psychology | Professional Elective | 3 | Introduction to Criminal Behavior, Theories of Crime Causation, Investigative Psychology, Forensic Assessment, Treatment of Offenders |
| PS213E3 | Geriatric Psychology | Professional Elective | 3 | Introduction to Gerontology, Cognitive Changes in Aging, Mental Health Issues in Elderly, Caregiving and Support Systems, End-of-Life Issues |
| PS21306 | Open Elective III | Open Elective | 3 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS21401 | Forensic Psychology | Core | 3 | Legal System and Psychology, Eyewitness Testimony, Criminal Profiling, Competency and Insanity, Rehabilitation of Offenders |
| PS21402 | Project Work & Viva Voce | Core Project | 10 | Research Proposal Development, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation and Viva Voce, Ethical Research Practices |
| PS21403 | Elective III (Professional Elective - Choose One) | Professional Elective | 3 | Options: Positive Psychology, Environmental Psychology, Neuropsychology |
| PS214E1 | Positive Psychology | Professional Elective | 3 | Introduction to Positive Psychology, Happiness and Well-being, Strengths and Virtues, Resilience and Post-Traumatic Growth, Positive Interventions |
| PS214E2 | Environmental Psychology | Professional Elective | 3 | Human-Environment Interaction, Environmental Perception, Stress and Urban Environment, Sustainable Behavior, Environmental Design |
| PS214E3 | Neuropsychology | Professional Elective | 3 | Brain-Behavior Relationships, Neuropsychological Assessment, Cognitive Disorders, Rehabilitation Strategies, Brain Imaging Techniques |
| PS21404 | Open Elective IV | Open Elective | 3 |
