

MA in Psychology at University of Mysore


Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Psychology at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This MA Psychology program at University of Mysore focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, mental processes, and their applications. It blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills in research, assessment, and intervention. The program is highly relevant in India''''s growing mental health sector, corporate human resources, and education, addressing the increasing demand for skilled psychological professionals across various industries.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for psychology graduates seeking advanced studies and those with related backgrounds like social work or education looking to specialize. It attracts individuals passionate about understanding the human mind, aspiring to careers in counseling, clinical practice, organizational development, or academic research. Candidates aiming to contribute to mental health awareness and well-being in Indian society will find this program fulfilling.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including clinical psychologists, counselors in schools/colleges, HR professionals, organizational development consultants, and researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from 3-5 LPA, growing to 6-12 LPA for experienced professionals. The program prepares students for higher studies like M.Phil. or Ph.D., opening avenues in academia and specialized therapeutic practices within leading Indian institutions.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Psychological Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand fundamental theories in cognitive, social, and biological psychology. Form study groups to discuss complex concepts and use online resources like Coursera or NPTEL for supplementary learning. This builds a strong conceptual base essential for advanced studies.
Tools & Resources
Core textbooks, Peer study groups, Online academic journals
Career Connection
A solid theoretical foundation is critical for effective diagnosis, conceptualization, and intervention strategies in clinical or counseling roles, forming the bedrock for professional competence.
Excel in Research Methods and Statistics- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on developing robust research methodology and statistical analysis skills. Practice using software like SPSS or R for data interpretation. Actively participate in practical sessions for experimental psychology, gaining hands-on experience in study design and data collection.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R software, Research methodology textbooks, Lab manuals
Career Connection
Proficiency in research and statistics is highly valued in academic research, market research, and program evaluation roles, allowing graduates to contribute to evidence-based practice and policy-making.
Engage in Early Skill-Building through Practicals- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in practical sessions for psychometric theory and psychological testing. Learn to administer, score, and interpret various psychological tests under supervision. Seek opportunities to observe senior students or professionals in testing environments to gain practical insights.
Tools & Resources
Psychological test kits, Practical manuals, Departmental lab resources
Career Connection
Early exposure and hands-on practice with psychological tests are crucial for roles in assessment centers, HR departments, and clinical settings, enabling accurate evaluation and informed decision-making.
Intermediate Stage
Strategic Elective Selection and Deep Dive- (Semester 3)
Carefully select elective courses in Semester 3 that align with specific career aspirations, whether it''''s clinical, industrial, or developmental psychology. Supplement classroom learning by reading specialized journals, attending online webinars, and engaging with faculty in your chosen area.
Tools & Resources
Specialized journals, Professional webinars, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Strategic elective choices allow for early specialization, making graduates more competitive for targeted roles and advanced degrees in their chosen niche within the Indian job market.
Seek Applied Exposure through Volunteering/Internships- (Semester 3)
During breaks, volunteer or pursue short-term internships at local hospitals, NGOs, schools, or corporate HR departments. Focus on roles that offer direct exposure to counseling, organizational development, or mental health initiatives, gaining real-world experience relevant to India''''s context.
Tools & Resources
Internship portals (e.g., Internshala), NGO networks, Hospital HR departments
Career Connection
Practical exposure bridges the gap between theory and practice, enhancing employability and providing valuable networking opportunities with professionals in the Indian psychology domain.
Develop Advanced Interviewing and Counseling Skills- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in role-playing sessions for psychotherapy and counseling. Practice active listening, empathy, and rapport building. Seek feedback from professors and peers. Consider pursuing certification workshops in specific counseling techniques if available locally.
Tools & Resources
Role-play exercises, Counselling skill manuals, Local workshops
Career Connection
Strong interviewing and counseling skills are indispensable for roles in therapy, guidance, and HR, directly impacting client outcomes and professional effectiveness in diverse Indian settings.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Internship/Project Work for Portfolio Building- (Semester 4)
Treat the final semester internship or project as a capstone experience. Choose a topic that showcases your specialized skills and interests. Focus on producing a high-quality research paper or a well-documented internship report. Actively seek mentorship from your supervisor.
Tools & Resources
Research databases, Statistical software, University library resources
Career Connection
A strong internship/project adds significant weight to your resume, demonstrating practical expertise and research capabilities, which are highly valued by employers and for further academic pursuits in India.
Comprehensive Placement and Further Studies Preparation- (Semester 4)
Begin preparing for placements early. Create a professional resume and portfolio, participate in mock interviews, and attend career counseling sessions. For higher studies (M.Phil./Ph.D.), prepare for entrance exams and research proposal writing. Network with alumni for career insights.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling cell, Resume builders, LinkedIn
Career Connection
Proactive preparation ensures smooth transition into the workforce or advanced academic programs, maximizing opportunities for securing desired roles in top Indian organizations or universities.
Engage in Professional Networking and Ethics- (Semester 4)
Attend university-organized psychology conferences, seminars, and workshops. Join professional psychology associations in India (e.g., Indian Association of Clinical Psychologists). Understand and internalize professional ethics and social responsibility, which are crucial for credible practice.
Tools & Resources
Professional association websites, Conference notices, Networking events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and collaboration, while a strong ethical foundation builds trust and reputation, vital for long-term career success and impact in the Indian psychological community.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree with Psychology as a major/optional subject, or any Bachelor''''s degree with 40% aggregate and 50% in relevant subject areas, such as Sociology, Social Work, Philosophy, B.Ed., M.Ed., B.S.W., etc.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 92 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSH 401 | Cognitive Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Cognitive Psychology, Attention and Pattern Recognition, Memory Systems, Language and Comprehension, Problem Solving and Reasoning, Cognition in Artificial Intelligence |
| PSH 402 | Social Psychology | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Social Psychology, Social Perception and Cognition, Attitudes and Persuasion, Interpersonal Attraction, Group Dynamics and Influence, Aggression and Prosocial Behavior |
| PSH 403 | Research Methods in Psychology | Core | 4 | Scientific Method and Research Process, Experimental and Non-Experimental Designs, Sampling Techniques, Tools for Data Collection, Ethical Issues in Psychological Research, Report Writing |
| PSH 404 | Psychometric Theory | Core | 4 | Introduction to Psychometrics, Foundations of Psychological Measurement, Reliability of Psychological Tests, Validity of Psychological Tests, Item Analysis and Test Construction, Psychological Scaling |
| PSH 405 | Applied Statistics in Psychology | Core | 4 | Basic Statistical Concepts, Measures of Central Tendency and Variability, Probability and Normal Distribution, Inferential Statistics (t-tests, ANOVA), Correlation and Regression, Non-Parametric Statistics |
| PSH 406 | Experimental Psychology Practical-I | Lab | 4 | Experiments on Sensation, Experiments on Perception, Experiments on Attention, Experiments on Memory, Experiments on Learning, Experiments on Thinking |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSH 411 | Psychology of Personality | Core | 4 | Theories of Personality (Psychodynamic, Humanistic), Trait and Social Cognitive Theories, Personality Assessment Methods, Personality Development, Culture and Personality, Self and Identity |
| PSH 412 | Biological Psychology | Core | 4 | Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology, Neural Communication, Sensory and Motor Systems, Biological Basis of Emotion and Motivation, Sleep and States of Consciousness, Higher Cognitive Functions |
| PSH 413 | Psychopathology | Core | 4 | Concepts of Abnormality, Classification Systems (DSM-5), Anxiety and Stress-Related Disorders, Mood Disorders, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Personality Disorders |
| PSH 414 | Psychological Testing | Core | 4 | Intelligence Testing, Personality Assessment Techniques, Projective and Objective Tests, Aptitude and Interest Inventories, Neuropsychological Assessment, Ethical Issues in Testing |
| PSH 415 | Human Resource Development | Core | 4 | Concepts and Goals of HRD, Training and Development, Performance Appraisal Systems, Career Planning and Development, Employee Engagement and Well-being, Organizational Change and Development |
| PSH 416 | Psychological Testing Practical-II | Lab | 4 | Testing related to Intelligence, Testing related to Personality, Testing related to Aptitude, Testing related to Interest, Testing related to Creativity, Testing related to Adjustment |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSH 501 | Health Psychology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Health Psychology, Stress, Coping, and Illness, Health Behaviors and Lifestyle, Chronic Illness and Pain Management, Psychological Interventions in Health, Patient-Provider Communication |
| PSH 502 | Psychotherapy & Counselling | Core | 4 | Introduction to Psychotherapy, Psychoanalytic and Psychodynamic Therapies, Behavioral and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, Humanistic and Existential Therapies, Group Therapy and Family Therapy, Ethics in Counselling and Psychotherapy |
| PSH 503 | Organizational Psychology | Core | 4 | Organizational Behavior and Theories, Work Motivation and Job Satisfaction, Leadership Theories and Styles, Organizational Culture and Climate, Workplace Stress and Well-being, Group Dynamics in Organizations |
| PSH 504 | Applied Social Psychology | Core | 4 | Social Influence and Persuasion, Consumer Behavior, Environmental Psychology, Legal Psychology and Justice, Community Psychology and Intervention, Social Change and Development |
| PSH 505 | Clinical Psychology | Elective | 4 | Assessment in Clinical Psychology, Diagnosis and Classification of Disorders, Child and Adolescent Psychopathology, Geriatric Mental Health, Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention, Psychopharmacology Basics |
| PSH 506 | Industrial Psychology | Elective | 4 | Personnel Selection and Recruitment, Training and Development in Industry, Performance Management Systems, Work-Life Balance and Employee Retention, Organizational Culture and Climate, Employee Motivation and Job Design |
| PSH 507 | Developmental Psychology | Elective | 4 | Theories of Human Development, Cognitive Development Across Lifespan, Socioemotional Development, Infancy and Early Childhood, Adolescence and Adulthood, Aging and Gerontology |
| PSH 508 | Forensic Psychology | Elective | 4 | Psychology and Legal System, Criminal Profiling, Eyewitness Testimony, Competency to Stand Trial, Correctional Psychology, Victimology and Rehabilitation |
| PSH 509 | Educational Psychology | Elective | 4 | Learning Theories and Application, Motivation in Education, Classroom Management, Assessment and Evaluation in Education, Special Education and Inclusive Practices, Teacher Effectiveness and Student Development |
| PSH 510 | Communication Skill & Personality Development | Soft Skill | 2 | Verbal and Non-verbal Communication, Interpersonal Communication Skills, Presentation Skills, Self-awareness and Personal Branding, Time Management and Goal Setting, Emotional Intelligence |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSH 521 | Internship / Project Work | Core | 8 | Independent Research Project Design, Data Collection and Field Work, Advanced Statistical Analysis, Scientific Report Writing, Presentation of Research Findings, Ethical Considerations in Applied Research |
| PSH 522 | Counseling Psychology | Elective | 4 | Counselling Process and Techniques, Crisis Intervention and Grief Counselling, Family and Marital Counselling, Career and Vocational Counselling, School and Adolescent Counselling, Multicultural Counselling |
| PSH 523 | Consumer Psychology | Elective | 4 | Consumer Behavior Theories, Consumer Decision Making Process, Perception, Attention, and Memory in Consumption, Attitudes and Persuasion in Marketing, Impact of Culture on Consumer Behavior, Advertising Effectiveness |
| PSH 524 | Positive Psychology | Elective | 4 | Foundations of Positive Psychology, Well-being and Happiness, Strengths and Virtues, Flow and Optimal Experience, Gratitude and Forgiveness, Resilience and Post-Traumatic Growth |
| PSH 525 | Geriatric Psychology | Elective | 4 | Theories of Aging, Cognitive Changes in Older Adults, Mental Health Issues in Aging, Caregiving and Support Systems, Dementia and Alzheimer''''s Disease, End-of-Life Issues |
| PSH 526 | Sports Psychology | Elective | 4 | Motivation and Goal Setting in Sports, Anxiety and Stress Management for Athletes, Mental Toughness and Resilience, Team Dynamics and Cohesion, Concentration and Attention in Performance, Injury Rehabilitation Psychology |
| PSH 527 | Professional Ethics & Social Responsibility | Soft Skill | 2 | Ethical Principles in Psychology, Professional Conduct and Boundaries, Confidentiality and Informed Consent, Social Justice and Advocacy, Cultural Competence in Practice, Ethical Decision Making |




