How to study psychology after Higher Secondary

Psychology is a fascinating subject with a widening market demand. That means students who take it up in college and at Masters level have more job opportunities now than before. It’s because our mental make-up is changing rapidly as life becomes more evolved and complex. Read on to know more about how to study this subject in India.  

What is Psychology as a study subject?

Psychology is the science of mind and human behaviour. While it is a vast subject in itself, other courses that require studying about human anatomy and related subjects also include basic concepts of psychology, for example, Psychology is generally included in counselling courses, physiotherapy, therapeutic sciences and other medical courses. Psychology course requires studying and understanding human brain development, consciousness, behaviour, personality and related topics. 

What are the Psychology courses available in India? 

Psychology courses in India are offered at various levels from diploma and certificate courses, to Bachelor degrees and postgraduate courses in Psychology. India offers BA, BSc (both 3 years), MA, MSc (both 2 years), MPhil (2 years) and PhD full time and part time courses in Psychology. Moreover, there are many research-level courses as well as part-time or online courses for working professionals in Psychology.  

Who is eligible for UG Psychology courses?

Students who have completed higher secondary or equivalent education from any state= or national education board in India can apply. Open schooling and home schooling students can also apply, provided they have cleared their Standard 12 exams. Choice of stream , i.e. Humanities, Science or Commerce in the plus two level does not matter; anyone can take up Psychology. Various universities may also have additional criteria such as cut-off marks, written admission test or an interview with the student.  

What is the career prospect after studying Psychology?

In the field of Psychology, theory and practical go hand in hand. Psychologists can work as counsellors at universities, hospitals, schools, clinics, government agencies etc or even be an independent private practitioner. Besides, psychology has wide applications in various fields from such as advertisement, user interface creation, marketing, visual merchandising, and even entertainment, and psychologists work as consultants or subject matter experts. Students who complete higher studies in Psychology often become teachers in various degree courses as related modules are part of many subject curricula.