.png&w=1920&q=75)
MA 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 MA Applied Psychology program at the University of Delhi focuses on the practical application of psychological principles to real-world challenges. It trains students to understand, predict, and influence human behavior in diverse settings, addressing mental health, organizational effectiveness, and societal well-being. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled psychologists in India''''s evolving healthcare, corporate, and educational sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for psychology graduates seeking advanced training for professional practice. It also caters to individuals with a relevant academic background interested in a career in counseling, organizational development, clinical psychology, or social interventions. Fresh graduates aspiring to contribute to mental health and societal development, as well as those looking to pursue research, will find the curriculum comprehensive.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as counselors, organizational psychologists, researchers, and mental health professionals. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3.5 to 6 LPA, growing significantly with experience in corporate or clinical settings. The program equips students with skills valued in NGOs, hospitals, educational institutions, and corporate HR departments, fostering professional growth.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Psychological Concepts- (Semester 1)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand fundamental theories in cognitive and social psychology. Use textbooks, attend lectures diligently, and participate in peer study groups to solidify foundational knowledge.
Tools & Resources
University Library, Online academic journals, Peer study groups, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is crucial for advanced studies and effective application in any psychological domain, from clinical diagnosis to organizational analysis.
Develop Strong Research and Statistical Skills- (Semester 1)
Actively engage with courses on research methods and statistics. Practice data analysis using software like SPSS and critically evaluate research papers. Seek opportunities for minor data analysis tasks.
Tools & Resources
SPSS software, Online tutorials, Statistical handbooks, Research methodology workshops
Career Connection
Essential for evidence-based practice, research roles, and data interpretation in clinical, organizational, or academic settings, highly valued by employers.
Engage with Elective Exploration- (Semester 1)
Even though electives start in Semester 3, start exploring different applied areas (e.g., health, organizational, counseling) through reading, seminars, and guest lectures in Semester 1 to identify your interests.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, Guest lectures, Professional psychology associations, Career counseling cells
Career Connection
Early exposure helps in making informed choices for electives and future specialization, aligning academic choices with career aspirations.
Intermediate Stage
Seek Practical Experience through Internships- (Semesters 2-3 breaks)
Actively look for short-term internships in mental health clinics, NGOs, HR departments, or research organizations during semester breaks or concurrently with studies. Focus on gaining hands-on exposure to different applied settings.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Online internship portals (Internshala, LinkedIn), Professional networking
Career Connection
Practical experience is invaluable for understanding real-world challenges, building a professional portfolio, and often leads to pre-placement offers or stronger job applications.
Specialize Through Electives and Projects- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose electives that align with your career interests (e.g., Forensic, Consumer, Health Psychology). Deep dive into these areas through projects, advanced readings, and participation in relevant workshops.
Tools & Resources
Specialized journals, Professional body memberships, Advanced workshops, Faculty guidance on project topics
Career Connection
Specialization builds expertise, making you a more attractive candidate for niche roles and demonstrating commitment to a particular field within applied psychology.
Develop Essential Counseling and Assessment Skills- (Semesters 2-3)
Actively participate in practical components of counseling and psychological assessment courses. Practice administering and interpreting tests, and engage in mock counseling sessions to refine interpersonal and diagnostic skills.
Tools & Resources
Psychological testing kits, Role-playing exercises, Supervised practice, Workshops on specific therapeutic techniques
Career Connection
These are core competencies for roles in counseling, clinical psychology, and organizational development, directly impacting your ability to provide effective psychological services.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to your dissertation or project, applying all learned research methods and statistical skills. Aim for a high-quality output that showcases your analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Tools & Resources
Research labs, Statistical software, Faculty mentors, Academic writing resources, Peer review
Career Connection
A strong dissertation acts as a portfolio piece, demonstrating advanced research capability, critical thinking, and independent work ethic, crucial for both academia and industry.
Intensive Placement Preparation- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with the university''''s placement cell. Prepare your resume, practice interview skills (behavioral and technical), and participate in mock interviews and group discussions. Network aggressively with potential employers.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Career counseling services, Online job portals, LinkedIn, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Directly leads to securing desirable full-time employment opportunities upon graduation, ensuring a smooth transition from academics to professional life.
Pursue Advanced Certifications/Workshops- (Semester 4)
Identify and enroll in short-term certifications or advanced workshops relevant to your chosen specialization (e.g., CBT, psychometric testing, organizational development). This adds tangible skills beyond the core curriculum.
Tools & Resources
Professional training institutes, Online platforms (NPTEL, Coursera for specialized courses), Workshops endorsed by psychological associations
Career Connection
These additional qualifications enhance your resume, demonstrate proactive learning, and provide a competitive edge in specialized roles within the Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A./B.Sc. (Hons) Psychology / Applied Psychology from University of Delhi or any other recognized university with 55% or more marks OR B.A./B.Sc. degree from University of Delhi or any other recognized university with Psychology as one of the subjects with 60% or more marks OR Any other Bachelor''''s Degree from University of Delhi or any other recognized university with 60% or more marks AND one-year Post Graduate Diploma in Psychology.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPA 101 | Cognitive Psychology | Core | 4 | Nature of Cognition, Attention and Perception, Memory Systems, Language Acquisition, Problem Solving and Decision Making, Intelligence |
| MPA 102 | Social Psychology | Core | 4 | Social Cognition, Attitudes and Persuasion, Group Dynamics, Interpersonal Attraction, Aggression and Altruism, Prejudice and Discrimination |
| MPA 103 | Research Methods in Applied Psychology | Core | 4 | Scientific Research Process, Experimental Designs, Non-experimental Methods, Sampling Techniques, Ethical Considerations in Research, Qualitative Research Methods |
| MPA 104 | Statistical Methods for Applied Psychology | Core | 4 | Descriptive Statistics, Inferential Statistics (t-test, ANOVA), Correlation and Regression, Non-parametric Tests, Introduction to Psychometrics, Data Interpretation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPA 201 | Health Psychology | Core | 4 | Stress and Coping, Health Behaviours, Chronic Illness Management, Pain Management, Health Promotion, Psychological Interventions in Health |
| MPA 202 | Organizational Psychology | Core | 4 | Work Motivation, Leadership Theories, Organizational Culture, Job Satisfaction, Performance Appraisal, Team Dynamics |
| MPA 203 | Psychological Assessment in Applied Settings | Core | 4 | Principles of Psychological Testing, Test Construction, Intelligence Testing, Personality Assessment, Projective Techniques, Ethical Issues in Assessment |
| MPA 204 | Psychological Counseling | Core | 4 | Counseling Process, Therapeutic Relationship, Counseling Skills, Theories of Counseling, Crisis Intervention, Ethical Guidelines in Counseling |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPA 301 | Psychopathology | Core | 4 | Classification of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Personality Disorders, Eating Disorders |
| MPA 302 | Positive Psychology | Core | 4 | Foundations of Positive Psychology, Well-being and Happiness, Strengths and Virtues, Resilience, Flow Experiences, Positive Interventions |
| MPA 303 | Elective I (e.g., Applied Social Psychology / Consumer Psychology) | Elective | 4 | Social Influence and Persuasion, Group Conflict and Cooperation, Environmental Psychology, Consumer Decision Making, Branding and Advertising, Market Research in Psychology |
| MPA 304 | Elective II (e.g., Community Psychology / Forensic Psychology) | Elective | 4 | Social Change and Prevention, Empowerment and Diversity, Community Assessment, Legal System and Criminal Behavior, Assessment in Forensic Settings, Eyewitness Testimony and Victimology |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPA 401 | Intervention Strategies in Applied Psychology | Core | 4 | Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapies, Family and Group Therapy, Mindfulness-based Interventions, Eclectic Approaches to Therapy |
| MPA 402 | Neuropsychology | Core | 4 | Brain Structure and Function, Cognitive Neuropsychology, Neurological Disorders, Neuropsychological Assessment, Rehabilitation Psychology, Brain Imaging Techniques |
| MPA 403 | Elective III (e.g., Human Resource Management / Psychology of Media and Technology) | Elective | 4 | HR Functions and Policies, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Performance Management, Employee Relations, Organizational Development |
| MPA 404 | Dissertation/Project | Core | 4 | Research Proposal Development, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Literature Review, Ethical Considerations in Research, Independent Research Project |
