

B-A-HONS in Applied Psychology at University of Delhi


Delhi, Delhi
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Applied Psychology at University of Delhi Delhi?
This B.A. (Hons.) Applied Psychology program at the University of Delhi focuses on the practical application of psychological principles to real-world problems. With a strong emphasis on empirical research and evidence-based interventions, it prepares students for diverse professional roles in areas like mental health, organizational development, and social welfare in the Indian context. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with skill-based training, addressing the growing demand for skilled psychologists.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a keen interest in human behavior and societal well-being, seeking entry into psychological fields. It also suits individuals passionate about research, counselling, or human resource management. Students with strong analytical and empathetic skills, looking to make a tangible impact on individuals and communities in India, will find this specialization particularly rewarding, providing a solid foundation for higher studies or immediate career entry.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths as counsellors, human resource specialists, research assistants, or community health workers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth trajectories in private practice, NGOs, or corporate sectors. The program also serves as an excellent foundation for pursuing Master''''s degrees in Clinical, Counselling, or Organizational Psychology, aligning with professional certifications from Indian psychological associations.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Concepts with Practical Application- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with foundational theories in psychology by linking them to real-life observations and current events. Utilize case studies discussed in class and participate in departmental quizzes to reinforce learning.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Psychology textbooks (Class 11 & 12), Open-access psychology journals (e.g., PsyAcademia), Online courses on Coursera/edX for supplementary learning
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for understanding advanced topics and for entry-level roles requiring analytical thinking about human behavior.
Develop Effective Study Habits and Peer Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex topics, share notes, and quiz each other on concepts. Practice active recall and spaced repetition for better retention of psychological terms and theories.
Tools & Resources
Google Docs for collaborative note-taking, Quizlet for flashcards, University library resources, Student mentors from senior batches
Career Connection
Enhances collaborative skills vital for team-based psychological interventions and research, while improving academic performance for future opportunities.
Engage in Early Skill Building & Observation- (Semester 1-2)
Seek opportunities for basic observation in relevant settings (e.g., local NGOs working with children, elderly care homes) with ethical permission. Attend guest lectures and workshops on basic counselling skills or psychological first aid.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards for workshop announcements, Ethical guidelines for observation provided by faculty, Local community centers
Career Connection
Builds early empathy and contextual understanding, providing a realistic view of psychological practice and sparking interest in specific sub-fields.
Intermediate Stage
Apply Research Methods through Mini-Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Collaborate with peers or faculty on small-scale research projects, even if it''''s just a literature review or a basic survey. Focus on designing studies, collecting data, and interpreting results.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for statistical analysis (learn basics), Google Forms for surveys, University research labs/library for literature
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking and analytical skills, highly valued in research roles, data analysis, and preparing for higher academic pursuits.
Gain Industry Exposure via Internships & Workshops- (Semester 4-5)
Actively seek internships at mental health clinics, NGOs, HR departments, or educational institutions during summer breaks. Participate in skill-based workshops on psychometric testing, counselling techniques, or organizational development.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, LinkedIn, Internshala, Professional bodies like Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists (IACP) for resources
Career Connection
Provides practical experience, helps identify career interests, builds professional networks, and enhances resume for placements.
Participate in Academic Competitions & Conferences- (Semester 4-5)
Present research posters at inter-college psychology fests, participate in debates, or attend student conferences. This hones presentation skills and exposes you to current research trends.
Tools & Resources
University psychological society, Departmental events, National/regional psychology conferences
Career Connection
Boosts confidence, refines communication skills, and creates networking opportunities with academics and professionals, showcasing your dedication.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Placement Preparation & Mock Interviews- (Semester 6)
Dedicate time to crafting a strong resume tailored to psychology roles. Participate in mock interviews and group discussions, focusing on answering behavioral and technical questions relevant to the field.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Online job portals (Naukri.com, LinkedIn), Peer feedback
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for job market demands, improving interview performance and securing desired placements or internships leading to PPOs.
Advanced Specialization & Skill Refinement- (Semester 6)
Focus on deepening knowledge in a chosen DSE area (e.g., Clinical, I/O, Forensic). Seek out advanced workshops or online certifications in specific psychometric tools, therapy modules, or HR analytics.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL, Swayam, Specialized workshops from reputed institutes (e.g., NIMHANS, TISS), Professional associations
Career Connection
Differentiates candidates by providing niche skills, making them highly desirable for specialized roles and enhancing their prospects for master''''s programs.
Network with Alumni & Industry Leaders- (Semester 6)
Attend alumni talks, connect with psychology professionals on LinkedIn, and reach out for informational interviews. Understand current industry trends, job market requirements, and career trajectories.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University alumni portal, Departmental networking events, Professional association meetings
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, hidden job opportunities, and invaluable insights that can guide career planning and accelerate professional growth post-graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Class XII (or equivalent) in relevant subjects, followed by a valid score in the Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG) as per University of Delhi admission guidelines.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 148 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-1 | Introduction to Psychology | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Psychology, Schools of Psychology, Methods of Psychological Research, Biological Bases of Behavior, States of Consciousness |
| DSC-2 | Basic Cognitive Processes | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Attention, Perception, Learning, Memory, Problem-Solving and Decision Making |
| DSC-3 | Social Psychology | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Introduction to Social Psychology, Social Perception and Cognition, Attitudes and Attitude Change, Interpersonal Attraction and Close Relationships, Group Processes and Intergroup Relations |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective - 1 | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | Choice-based from other departments. Topics vary based on selection. |
| AECC-1 | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course - 1 | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 4 | Choice-based (e.g., Environmental Science or Modern Indian Language). Topics vary based on selection. |
| VAC-1 | Value Addition Course - 1 | Value Addition Course (VAC) | 2 | Choice-based from University list. Topics vary based on selection. |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-4 | Developmental Psychology | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Introduction and Theoretical Perspectives, Infancy and Early Childhood, Middle Childhood and Adolescence, Adulthood and Aging, Socio-emotional Development |
| DSC-5 | Statistical Methods for Psychology | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Introduction to Statistics in Psychology, Measures of Central Tendency and Variability, Correlation and Regression, Probability and Hypothesis Testing, Introduction to Inferential Statistics |
| DSC-6 | Organizational Behavior | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Introduction to Organizational Behavior, Foundations of Individual Behavior, Group Dynamics and Team Building, Leadership Theories and Styles, Power, Politics and Conflict |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective - 2 | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | Choice-based from other departments. Topics vary based on selection. |
| AECC-2 | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course - 2 | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 4 | Choice-based (e.g., Environmental Science or Modern Indian Language, if not taken in Sem 1). Topics vary. |
| VAC-2 | Value Addition Course - 2 | Value Addition Course (VAC) | 2 | Choice-based from University list. Topics vary based on selection. |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-7 | Research Methods in Psychology | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Scientific Inquiry and Psychological Research, Research Design and Types of Research, Sampling Techniques, Methods of Data Collection, Ethics in Psychological Research |
| DSC-8 | Abnormal Psychology | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Concept of Abnormality and Classification, Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders, Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar), Schizophrenia and Psychotic Disorders, Personality Disorders |
| DSC-9 | Psychological Assessment | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Introduction to Psychological Testing, Intelligence Testing, Personality Assessment, Projective Techniques and Neuropsychological Assessment, Ethical Considerations in Assessment |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective - 3 | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | Choice-based from other departments. Topics vary based on selection. |
| SEC-1 | Skill Enhancement Course - 1 | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Choice-based from Department list (e.g., Youth and Peace Building, Psychological Skills for Enhancing Health and Wellbeing). Topics vary. |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-10 | Health Psychology | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Introduction to Health Psychology, Stress, Coping and Illness, Health Behaviors and Lifestyle, Chronic Illness and Pain Management, Psychological Interventions in Health |
| DSC-11 | Counselling Psychology | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Introduction to Counselling, The Counselling Process, Theories of Counselling, Counselling for Specific Issues (e.g., Grief, Trauma), Ethical and Professional Issues in Counselling |
| DSC-12 | Practicum: Psychological Testing | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Introduction to Practicum and Ethical Guidelines, Administration and Scoring of Tests, Interpretation and Report Writing, Application of Psychological Tests (Intelligence, Personality), Observational Techniques and Interviews |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective - 4 | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | Choice-based from other departments. Topics vary based on selection. |
| SEC-2 | Skill Enhancement Course - 2 | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Choice-based from Department list. Topics vary based on selection. |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-13 | Biological Psychology | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Structure and Function of the Nervous System, Brain and Behavior, Sensory and Motor Systems, Hormones, Genes and Behavior, Biological Basis of Emotion and Motivation |
| DSC-14 | Industrial/Organizational Psychology | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Introduction to I/O Psychology, Personnel Selection and Training, Motivation and Job Satisfaction, Leadership and Management, Organizational Culture and Development |
| DSE-1 | Discipline Specific Elective - 1 (Example: Positive Psychology) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Introduction to Positive Psychology, Well-being and Happiness, Character Strengths and Virtues, Flow and Optimal Experience, Positive Interventions and Applications |
| DSE-2 | Discipline Specific Elective - 2 (Example: Educational Psychology) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Introduction to Educational Psychology, Theories of Learning, Motivation in Education, Classroom Management and Instruction, Assessment and Evaluation in Education |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-15 | Cognitive Neuroscience | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Introduction to Cognitive Neuroscience, Methods of Cognitive Neuroscience, Perception and Attention, Memory and Language, Emotion and Social Cognition |
| DSC-16 | Applied Social Psychology | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Social Influence and Persuasion, Group Dynamics and Intergroup Relations, Prosocial Behavior and Aggression, Prejudice, Stereotyping and Discrimination, Social Change and Policy Interventions |
| DSE-3 | Discipline Specific Elective - 3 (Example: Clinical Psychology) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Introduction to Clinical Psychology, Assessment in Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapeutic Approaches, Child and Adolescent Disorders, Ethical and Professional Issues in Clinical Practice |
| DSE-4 | Discipline Specific Elective - 4 (Example: Forensic Psychology) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Introduction to Forensic Psychology, Psychology and the Legal System, Criminal Behavior and Profiling, Witness and Victim Psychology, Interventions in Forensic Settings |




