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INTEGRATED-M-SC-PSYCHOLOGY in General at St. Thomas College (Autonomous), Thrissur
Thrissur, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is General at St. Thomas College (Autonomous), Thrissur Thrissur?
This Integrated M.Sc. Psychology program at St. Thomas College, Thrissur, offers a comprehensive five-year journey into the diverse realms of human behavior and mind. It uniquely blends undergraduate foundational knowledge with advanced master''''s level insights, preparing students for diverse roles in India''''s rapidly growing mental health and organizational psychology sectors. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, a key differentiator in the Indian educational landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates aspiring for a deep dive into psychology, fresh graduates seeking direct entry into the mental health field, or individuals passionate about understanding human cognition and behavior. It particularly suits those aiming for careers in counselling, clinical settings, human resources, or academic research within India, providing a structured and comprehensive learning pathway from foundational concepts to advanced specializations.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to emerge as highly competent psychology professionals, ready for roles such as counsellors, clinical psychologists (after further supervised practice), HR specialists, researchers, or educators. The integrated nature accelerates career progression in India, with potential starting salaries ranging from INR 3-6 LPA for entry-level positions, growing significantly with experience in clinical practice or corporate roles. Professional certifications like RCI registration (with appropriate post-M.Sc. training) become accessible pathways.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core psychological concepts from ''''Foundations of Psychology'''' and ''''Cognitive Psychology''''. Actively participate in discussions, clarify doubts immediately, and use concept maps or flashcards to reinforce learning.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Academic journals, Online psychology dictionaries, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid base in theories is crucial for all advanced applications and competitive exams in psychology, aiding in research and clinical understanding.
Develop Academic and Research Skills Early- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to ''''Academic Skills for Psychology'''' and ''''Introductory Statistics''''. Practice academic writing, presentation, and data interpretation consistently. Start familiarizing yourself with basic research ethics and methodologies.
Tools & Resources
APA style guide, Microsoft Word/Google Docs for writing, Basic Excel for data organization, Institutional library resources
Career Connection
Strong academic and research skills are essential for higher studies, professional report writing, and evidence-based practice in any psychology domain.
Engage in Peer Learning and Discussion- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex topics, share perspectives, and prepare for internal assessments. Teaching concepts to peers helps solidify your own understanding and improves communication skills.
Tools & Resources
College common rooms, Online collaboration tools (e.g., WhatsApp groups, Google Meet), Whiteboards
Career Connection
Enhances teamwork and communication, crucial skills for collaborative work in counselling, clinical teams, and organizational settings.
Intermediate Stage
Apply Theoretical Knowledge through Mini-Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities to conduct small-scale studies or case analyses based on ''''Developmental Psychology'''', ''''Social Psychology'''', or ''''Psychopathology''''. This could involve surveys, observations, or literature reviews on specific topics.
Tools & Resources
Online survey platforms (Google Forms), Academic databases (JSTOR, PubMed), University mentors
Career Connection
Practical application bridges theory-practice gap, develops analytical skills, and provides portfolio examples for internships or job applications.
Shadow Professionals or Attend Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Look for opportunities to shadow counsellors, psychologists, or HR professionals in local settings. Attend college-organized workshops or external webinars on topics like ''''Counselling Psychology'''' or ''''Health Psychology'''' to gain practical insights.
Tools & Resources
Department faculty, Local hospitals/counselling centers (with prior permission), Professional associations (e.g., Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists)
Career Connection
Provides real-world exposure, helps clarify career paths, builds professional network, and makes learning more experiential and relevant for placements.
Master Psychological Testing and Lab Skills- (Semester 5-6)
Dedicate significant effort to the ''''Psychological Testing Lab'''' and related theory courses. Practice administering, scoring, and interpreting various psychological tests under supervision, and rigorously record observations in the Experimental Psychology Lab.
Tools & Resources
Lab manuals, Actual psychological tests (under supervision), SPSS/R for data analysis
Career Connection
Essential for roles in clinical assessment, HR selection, educational guidance, and research, directly impacting employability in psychology-related careers.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Comprehensive Research Projects and Dissertation- (Semester 7-10)
Engage deeply in ''''Research Project I & II'''' and the final ''''Dissertation''''. Choose a research topic aligned with your career interests, execute data collection and analysis rigorously, and refine your academic writing for the thesis.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R/JASP for advanced statistics, Research guides, University''''s ethical review board, Supervisor''''s expertise
Career Connection
A strong dissertation is a key credential for academic careers, research positions, and often impresses employers for its demonstration of critical thinking and independent work.
Seek Specialized Internships and Fieldwork- (Semester 9)
Actively pursue internships or fieldwork opportunities (as per INPS9F01) in clinical settings, corporate HR, counselling centers, or educational institutions related to your chosen elective areas. This hands-on experience is critical for professional development.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Professional networks, Online job portals for psychology internships, Industry mentors
Career Connection
Direct industry experience is invaluable for placements, provides practical skills, builds professional contacts, and often leads to pre-placement offers.
Prepare for Professional Certifications and Higher Studies- (Semester 9-10)
Explore pathways for RCI registration (if aspiring to be a clinical psychologist), or other relevant professional certifications in counselling or HR. Simultaneously, research and prepare for entrance exams for further specialized M.Phil/PhD programs if higher academia or advanced clinical roles are desired.
Tools & Resources
RCI website, Professional association guidelines, Coaching centers for entrance exams, Career counselling services
Career Connection
Proactive planning for certifications and higher education ensures clear career progression, unlocks specialized roles, and increases earning potential in the long term.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A candidate must have passed the Plus Two / VHSE / AIHSE / Equivalent Examination with Psychology as one of the optional subjects or any other subject from a recognized Board / University, with a minimum of 45% aggregate marks (or equivalent grade). Relaxation as per University/Government rules applies for various categories.
Duration: 5 years (10 semesters)
Credits: 185 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INPS1A01 | Foundations of Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Psychology, Schools of Psychology, Methods in Psychology, Biological Basis of Behavior, Sensation and Perception, States of Consciousness |
| INPS1A02 | Academic Skills for Psychology | Core | 4 | Academic Reading, Academic Writing, Presentation Skills, Critical Thinking, Digital Literacy in Psychology |
| INPS1C01 | Introductory Statistics in Psychology | Complementary | 4 | Nature of Statistics, Measures of Central Tendency, Measures of Variability, Correlation, Normal Probability Curve |
| IN1GE01 | Common Course I - English | Common | 4 | Reading and Literary Criticism, Creative Writing, Communication Skills, Literary Genres, Language Usage |
| IN1GE02 | Common Course II - English | Common | 3 | Advanced Academic English, Presentation Techniques, Report Writing, Public Speaking, English for Professional Communication |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INPS2A03 | Cognitive Psychology | Core | 4 | Nature of Cognition, Attention, Perception, Memory, Language, Problem Solving and Creativity |
| INPS2A04 | Social Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Social Psychology, Social Perception, Attitudes, Interpersonal Attraction, Group Dynamics, Prosocial and Antisocial Behavior |
| INPS2C02 | Research Methodology in Psychology | Complementary | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Designs, Sampling, Data Collection Methods, Report Writing |
| IN2GE03 | Common Course III - English | Common | 4 | Reading Prose, Poetics, Literary Theory, Critical Appreciation, Argumentative Writing |
| IN2GE04 | Common Course IV - English | Common | 3 | Academic Discourse, Research Paper Writing, Literary Analysis, Ethical Communication, Rhetoric |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INPS3A05 | Developmental Psychology | Core | 4 | Theories of Development, Prenatal Development, Infancy and Childhood, Adolescence, Adulthood and Aging, Death and Dying |
| INPS3A06 | Personality Theories | Core | 4 | Introduction to Personality, Psychodynamic Theories, Humanistic Theories, Trait Theories, Social Cognitive Theories, Assessment of Personality |
| INPS3C03 | Advanced Statistics in Psychology | Complementary | 4 | Probability, Hypothesis Testing, t-test, ANOVA, Non-parametric Statistics, SPSS Applications |
| IN3GE05 | Common Course V - English | Common | 4 | Literary History, Cultural Studies, Film Studies, Gender Studies, Modern Critical Approaches |
| IN3AL01 | Common Course VI - Additional Language | Common | 4 | Advanced Grammar, Literary Texts, Translation Skills, Cultural Context, Communication in Additional Language |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INPS4A07 | Psychopathology | Core | 4 | Concept of Abnormality, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia, Personality Disorders, Childhood Disorders |
| INPS4A08 | Physiological Psychology | Core | 4 | Nervous System, Brain Structures and Functions, Hormonal System, Sleep and Wakefulness, Motivation, Emotion |
| INPS4C04 | Psychological Testing | Complementary | 4 | Principles of Psychological Testing, Test Construction, Intelligence Tests, Personality Inventories, Projective Techniques, Ethics in Testing |
| IN4GE06 | Common Course VII - English | Common | 4 | Postcolonial Literature, Diasporic Writings, Environmental Literature, Digital Humanities, Critical Theory |
| IN4AL02 | Common Course VIII - Additional Language | Common | 4 | Classical Literature, Contemporary Literature, Media Studies, Creative Expression, Discourse Analysis |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INPS5B09 | Positive Psychology | Core | 4 | Foundations of Positive Psychology, Well-being, Happiness, Strengths and Virtues, Flow and Optimal Experience, Positive Interventions |
| INPS5B10 | Counselling Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Counselling, Counselling Process, Therapeutic Techniques, Ethical Issues, Specific Counselling Approaches |
| INPS5B11 | Health Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Health Psychology, Stress and Coping, Health Beliefs, Chronic Illness, Pain Management, Health Promotion |
| INPS5B12 (P) | Psychological Testing Lab | Core Lab | 4 | Administration of Tests, Scoring and Interpretation, Report Writing, Intelligence Tests, Personality Tests, Neuropsychological Tests |
| INPS5D01 | Open Course | Open | 3 | Interdisciplinary concepts, General knowledge application, Problem-solving skills, Critical analysis, Diverse subject exploration |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INPS6B13 | Educational Psychology | Core | 4 | Learning Theories, Motivation in Education, Classroom Management, Individual Differences, Assessment in Education, Giftedness and Learning Disabilities |
| INPS6B14 | Organizational Behavior | Core | 4 | Introduction to OB, Individual Behavior, Group Dynamics, Leadership, Motivation, Organizational Culture |
| INPS6B15 | Clinical Psychology | Core | 4 | Role of Clinical Psychologist, Assessment in Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy Approaches, Ethics, Consultation, Rehabilitation |
| INPS6B16 (P) | Experimental Psychology Lab | Core Lab | 4 | Perception Experiments, Attention and Memory Tasks, Learning Experiments, Cognitive Tasks, Social Psychology Experiments, Data Analysis |
| INPS6B17 (P) | Psychological Statistics Lab | Core Lab | 4 | SPSS for Descriptive Statistics, Hypothesis Testing using SPSS, Regression Analysis, Factor Analysis, Interpretation of Statistical Output |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INPS7C18 | Advanced Social Psychology | Core | 4 | Social Cognition, Social Influence, Intergroup Relations, Aggression, Prejudice and Discrimination, Applied Social Psychology |
| INPS7C19 | Cognitive Neuropsychology | Core | 4 | Brain and Cognition, Neurological Disorders, Assessment in Neuropsychology, Cognitive Rehabilitation, Memory Disorders, Language Disorders |
| INPS7C20 | Psychometrics | Core | 4 | Test Theory, Reliability, Validity, Item Analysis, Scaling, Factor Analysis in Test Construction |
| INPS7C21 (P) | Research Project I | Core Project | 4 | Literature Review, Research Problem Formulation, Hypothesis Development, Research Design, Pilot Study, Data Collection Planning |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INPS8C22 | Counselling and Psychotherapy | Core | 4 | Major Psychotherapy Schools, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Group Therapy, Family Therapy |
| INPS8C23 | Industrial Psychology | Core | 4 | Personnel Selection, Performance Appraisal, Training and Development, Motivation in Workplace, Work-Life Balance, Organizational Change |
| INPS8C24 | Community Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Community Psychology, Community Intervention, Prevention Programs, Social Justice, Empowerment, Program Evaluation |
| INPS8C25 (P) | Research Project II | Core Project | 4 | Data Analysis, Interpretation of Results, Report Writing, Ethical Considerations in Research, Presentation of Findings, Dissertation Preparation |
Semester 9
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INPS9D26 | Advanced Psychological Statistics | Core | 4 | Multivariate Analysis, Multiple Regression, ANCOVA, MANOVA, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), Research Software for Statistics |
| INPS9E01 | Elective I (e.g., Neuropsychological Assessment) | Elective | 3 | Neuropsychological Batteries, Clinical Interviews, Cognitive Function Assessment, Executive Functions, Memory, Language |
| INPS9E02 | Elective II (e.g., Sports Psychology) | Elective | 3 | Psychological Skills in Sport, Motivation in Sport, Anxiety and Stress, Team Cohesion, Performance Enhancement, Injury Rehabilitation |
| INPS9F01 | Internship/Field Work | Core | 6 | Practical Application of Skills, Observational Learning, Report Preparation, Case Studies, Professional Ethics, Supervision |
Semester 10
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INPS10D27 | Ethics in Psychology and Professional Practice | Core | 4 | Ethical Principles, Confidentiality, Informed Consent, Professional Boundaries, Dual Relationships, Ethical Decision Making |
| INPS10D28 | Seminar | Core | 2 | Literature Review, Presentation Skills, Critical Discussion, Academic Writing, Peer Feedback, Research Communication |
| INPS10E03 | Elective III (e.g., Forensic Psychology) | Elective | 3 | Psychology and Law, Criminal Profiling, Eyewitness Testimony, Competency to Stand Trial, Correctional Psychology, Victimology |
| INPS10E04 | Elective IV (e.g., Applied Psychotherapy) | Elective | 3 | Case Conceptualization, Intervention Strategies, Therapeutic Alliance, Termination, Relapse Prevention, Advanced Therapeutic Techniques |
| INPS10G01 | Dissertation | Core Project | 8 | Independent Research, Data Collection, Advanced Analysis, Thesis Writing, Oral Defense, Contribution to Knowledge |
