Psychology Career – Courses, Job prospects, Pay, Top Colleges

Psychology Career Scope, Eligibilty and Job Prospects

The study of psychology includes the study of the attitude and mental characteristics of a group of people. It is the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. The study of psychology is not only used to treat mental problems but is also applied to human problems in various spheres of life. The major schools of thought in psychology are biological, behavioral, social, cognitive and psycho-analysis. This is a great career opportunity for students who have a scientific bend of mind and are fascinated by the working of the conscious and unconscious mind. Psychologists work either in research, medical, clinical or diagnostic fields. They use various techniques, tests, scales, questionnaires etc to assess, analyze and treat the problem. There are various specialties that a student can dive into in order to have a successful career and it is best suited for people with strong interpersonal skills and ethical base.

 

Eligibility

Undergraduate degree
The basic eligibility criteria for pursuing an undergraduate degree in psychology (B.A/B.Sc) is qualifying 10+2 or equivalent examination in any stream from a recognized board of the country.

 

Post Graduation degree
The basic eligibility criteria for pursuing a post graduate degree in psychology (M.A/M.Sc) is having an undergraduate degree in psychology with minimum 45-50% marks. Most colleges also conduct an entrance exam for admission to their master’s programme.

 

Suitability for a Psychology Course

A candidate is expected to do well in a Psychology major course if she/he possesses the follows traits/skills:

    • Good communication and listening skills as well as a fair amount of patience
    • Genuine interest in people’s problem and the ability to empathize
    • Ability to work with different people from diverse backgrounds and all age groups
    • Interest in continuing education to be able to keep up with new techniques and research
  • Problem solving abilities, trustworthiness, discretion and open mindedness

 

Courses in Psychology

    • Associate’s degree in Psychology
    • Bachelor’s of Arts/Hons. in Psychology (3 year programme)
    • Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology (3 year programme)
    • Master’s of Arts in Psychology (2 year programme)
    • Master’s of Science in Psychology (2 year programme)
    • Ph.D. in Psychology
  • Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) (More focused on professional practice of psychology and clinical work than a traditional Ph.D.)

One can specialize in different fields within psychology after completing their under graduate degree. Some of these specializations are listed below:

    • Clinical Psychology
    • Health Psychology
    • Counseling Psychology
    • Forensic Psychology
    • Child development and behavior Psychology
    • Engineering Psychology
    • Perception, Cognition and Cognitive Neuroscience
    • Addiction Psychology
    • Media Psychology
    • Sports Psychology
    • Experimental Psychology
    • Biopsychology
    • Industrial Organization Psychology
  • Environmental Psychology

 

Job Prospects

Psychology is a strong field when it comes to job prospects and future growth. The demand for psychologists is increasing rapidly especially for those who specialize in clinical, counseling, industrial and forensic psychology. There is a booming demand for school counselors. Forensic psychologists get to closely work with the police, lawyers, judges and insurance companies while others may choose to work with MNCs after pursuing an MBA in Human Resources. A psychologist may choose from a number of other lucrative jobs like career counselors, researchers, therapists, clinical psychologists, social worker, correctional officer, rehabilitation specialist etc.

A psychologist works for an average 7-8 hours a day but it may vary according to the job profile of a person. If a person is required to visit prisons, clinics, schools, rehabilitations facilities etc then it may lead to longer working hours. On the other hand, private practice would lead to a more flexible working schedule.

 

Pay Packages

The pay package for a psychologist varies significantly according to their field of expertise, experience and educational qualifications. The field offers numerous lucrative and high paying jobs. While a person may earn around Rs. 10,000/- to Rs. 15,000 per month in the beginning, with increased qualification and experience he/she may earn up to Rs. 2,00,000 per month.

 

Top Colleges for pursuing a Psychology Degree (Approximate Fees for 1 year)

    • Lady Shri Ram College For Women, Delhi (Fees – Rs. 18,000/- approx for a general category student)
    • Indian Institute of Psychology and Research, Bangalore (Fees – intimated to selected students at the time of admission)
    • Jesus And Mary College, Delhi (Fees – Rs. Rs. 13,000/- approx)
    • Presidency College, Chennai (Fees – Rs. 12,000/- to Rs. 14,000/-)
    • Fergusson College, Pune (Fees – Rs. 3,000/-)
    • Christ University, Bangalore (Fees – Rs. 85,000/-)
    • St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai (Fees – Rs. 30,000/-)
    • Miranda House, Delhi (Fees – Rs. 20,000/-)