Applied Psychology: Admission 2024, Fees, Syllabus, Entrance Exam, Top Colleges, Career Scope

Updated on Aug 28, 2024 12:08 IST

Applied Psychology is a sub-filed or branch of Psychology. It involves the study of various principles of Psychology and is concerned with the applications of these theories and principles in real-world scenarios.

The duration of Applied Psychology may vary depending on the course level. The undergraduate-level Applied Psychology courses such as BA in Applied Psychology and BSc in Applied Psychology are of 3 years which a candidate can pursue after Class 12. Whereas postgraduate level Applied Psychology courses such as MA in Applied Psychology and MSc in Applied Psychology are of 2 years and can be pursued after graduation. Candidates can pursue higher studies in the field such as PG Diploma in Applied Psychology and PhD in Applied Psychology.

Applied Psychology is offered as a specialization in Arts and Science degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. It is also included in the course curriculum of Psychology courses. Applied Psychology courses can be pursued in regular mode as well as distance or correspondence mode of education. Admission to UG-level Applied Psychology courses is usually offered based on merit. For PG level and PhD level Applied Psychology courses candidates would have to qualify for various entrance exams to secure admission. Some of these entrance exams are CUET, IPU CET, CUET PG and UGC NET.

Some many colleges and universities offer Applied Psychology courses in India such as Delhi University (DU), Maharshi Dayanand University, Amity University, St. Francis College for Women and Galgotias University. There are a couple of colleges that offer Applied Psychology courses in Distance Mode. They are the School of Distance Education (Bharathiar University) and Annamalai University (Distance Education). The Applied Psychology courses are offered at fees ranging from INR 800 to INR 7.5 Lakh.

Those who completed Applied Psychology courses successfully can work in diverse fields in various job profiles such as Career Counselor, Organizational Psychologist, Educational Psychologist, Sports Psychologist and Forensic Psychologist. An entry-level Psychologist can expect an average salary of 4.8 LPA. Candidates who have studied Applied Psychology can be employed in a wide range of fields. Some of the top recruiters that hire them are Accenture, Freelancer, Silver Oak Health and Nones.

Applied Psychology Courses Highlights 2024

The table below presents some important information related to Applied Psychology courses such as eligibility, colleges, fees and job scope:

Particulars

Details

Course Name

Applied Psychology course

Applied Psychology Eligibility

UG: Class 12 or equivalent

PG: Graduate

PhD: Master’s degree holder

Applied Psychology Duration

UG: 3 years

PG: 2 years

PhD: 3- 6 years

Applied Psychology Fee Range

INR 800 – INR 7.5 Lakh

Applied Psychology Top Colleges

Delhi University, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Maharshi Dayanand University, Amity University, Galgotias University

, Lovely Professional University

Applied Psychology Salary Range

INR 1.2 LPA – INR 8.1 LPA

Applied Psychology Job Scope

4-5 Job Profiles

Applied Psychology Distance Colleges

School of Distance Education (Bharathiar University), Annamalai University (Distance Education)

Applied Psychology Entrance Exams

CUET, PUBDET, IPUCET, CUET PG, UGC NET

Applied Psychology Top Recruiters

YourDOST, Heart It Out, Nones, Manastha Health Solutions

Q:   What is Applied Psychology?

A:

Applied Psychology is a sub-field of Psychology that uses various Psychological and research methods to ensure the applications of principles, theories and techniques of Psychology. The field uses a problem solving approach and aims to find solutions to issues associated with human psychology and behavior. While Psychology is theoretical in nature, Applied Psychology involves the study of theories followed by its applications. Applied Psychology courses are offered at various course levels in Science and Arts degrees in India.

Q:   What are the types of Applied Psychology?

A:

Applied Psychology is a branch of Psychology that is concerned with the practical aspects of Psychology by implementing Psychological theories and finding solutions to problems. Applied Psychology can be classified into various sub-fields based on the concerns of the field. Some of these are given below:

Type of Applied Psychology

Description

Clinical psychology

Helps patients in providing support and solutions to their emotional and behavioural problems.

Educational psychology

Deals with students and provides assistance is learning and comprehending issues.

Climate and environmental psychology

Lays emphasis on the relationship between environment and human psychology and promotes conservation of the environment.

Organizational psychology

Its primary aim is to motivate the employees and explore their full potential at workplace.

Why Pursue Applied Psychology Course?

There are several reasons why candidates prefer to study Applied Psychology. Some of these are mentioned below:

  • Applied Psychology focuses on the applications of Psychology that make the candidates who pursue the course more practical for real-world situations.
  • The course involves research as well as fieldwork that improves the employability of a candidate.
  • Applied Psychology courses can be pursued by candidates who wish to be a part of the research field.
  • Those who pursue these courses can work in a variety of fields such as educational institutions, healthcare institutions, corporations and legal institutions.
  • The average salary of a senior level Psychologist is 29 LPA.

Candidates can also read:

Q:   What is the scope of studying psychology?

A:

To make a career in the field of psychology, students need to first have the intrinsic characteristics mentioned above. The higher the degree a person has, the better their career options are. In the field of Psychology, theory and practicals go hand in hand and with the demand growing for practitioners, a career in Psychology is highly rewarding. Psychologists can work as counsellors at universities, hospitals, schools, clinics, government agencies etc.

Q:   What are the benefits of studying Applied Psychology?

A:

There are various benefits of studying Applied Psychology. Some of which are as follows:

  • It enhances critical thinking skills and interpersonal skills
  • It helps you understand human behaviour
  • It enhances personal growth
  • It offers a broad range of job prospects

Applied Psychology Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for admission into Applied Psychology courses is determined by colleges and entrance exam conducting bodies.  The candidates are expected to have completed their previous educational qualification from a recognized institute. For Applied Psychology undergraduate courses the candidates are expected to pursue Class 12 from a recognized board such as CBSE, ICSE or State Board.

Candidates can find below the basic eligibility criteria that have to be fulfilled in order to secure admission to Applied Psychology courses in India:

Course Level

Eligibility Criteria

Applied Psychology UG

Class 12 or equivalent in any stream with a minimum of 50% marks

Applied Psychology PG

Graduate in same or related field with minimum 50% marks

Applied Psychology PhD

Master’s degree holder with at least 50% marks

Note: The eligibility criteria may vary depending on the colleges providing admission in Applied Psychology courses.

Q:   Can an Arts student pursue Applied Psychology course?

A:

Yes, an Arts student can pursue Applied Psychology courses. As per the basic eligibility for Applied Psychology courses, a candidate from any stream in Class 12 can apply for the course. Candidates are advised to refer to the marks criteria for admission in Applied Psychology courses. Applied Psychology is available as a specialisation in various Arts and Science courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. One can also study Applied Psychology courses as a specialisation in PG Diploma and also can pursue a PhD in Applied Psychology.

Applied Psychology Courses Entrance Exams 2024

In India, admission to Psychology courses is offered through various entrance exams. Through national-level Psychology entrance exams such as CUET, CUET PG and UGC NET candidates can secure admission in reputed colleges across different locations in India. The university-level entrance exams for Psychology such as IPU CET and PUBDET offer admission in the concerned universities as well as in their affiliated colleges. Candidates are advised to check for the release of the notifications of the respective exams and fill in the application forms without much delay.

Given below are some of the entrance exams through which candidates can secure admission in Psychology courses offered at various course levels:

Applied Psychology Entrance Exams

Applied Psychology Exam Dates

Applied Psychology Exam Schedule

Common University Entrance Test (CUET)

15 May '24 to 24 May '24.

CUET Schedule

Presidency University Bachelor Degree Entrance Test (PUBDET)

27 Jul '24 - 28 Jul '24

PUBDET Schedule

Indraprastha University Common Entrance Test (IPU CET)

Apr '25 (Tentative)

IPU CET Schedule

Common University Entrance Test-  Postgraduate (CUET PG)

Mar '25 (Tentative)

CUET PG Schedule

University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test(UGC NET)

18 Jun '24

UGC NET Schedule

Note: There are more entrance exams through which one can secure Admission in Applied Psychology courses.

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Counselling Start

TENTATIVE

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Result

TENTATIVE

21 Feb ' 25

SAT Registration Deadline for March Test

25 Feb ' 25

SAT Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation, a...

Feb '25 - Apr '25

CUET 2025 Application Process

TENTATIVE

Apr '25

CUET UG 2025 Application Form Correction

TENTATIVE

21 Sep ' 24

Second Phase of Counselling Begins

20 Sep ' 24

Reporting to Respective Colleges

Applied Psychology Courses Syllabus

Applied Psychology courses have core subjects and electives. Applied Psychology courses involve studying about the utilization of Psychology on people belonging to all walks of life. Its major focus is on applications of Psychology and its subfields. Since, there is immense scope for research in the field, Quantitative and Qualitative Research methods are also a part of the course curriculum.

Given below are some of the main topics of Applied Psychology that are covered in various degrees and course levels of Applied Psychology and Psychology:

Applied Psychology Subjects

Introduction to Applied Psychology

Community Psychology

Quantitative Research Methods

Applied Cognitive Psychology

Applied Psychometrics

Qualitative Research Methods

Psychopathology

Applied Industrial/Organizational Psychology

Forensic Psychology

Childhood Psychopathology

Training and Consultancy in Organizations

Critical Psychology

Neuropsychological Rehabilitation

Cognitive Behavioural Interventions

Psychoneuroendocrinology

Organizational Culture and Climate

Note: The Applied Psychology syllabus may vary depending on the course level, degree and college offering the course.

Q:   Are there any good books for Applied Psychology course?

A:

Yes, there are several Applied Psychology books that are prescribed by various universities that offer courses involving the study of Applied Psychology. Some of which are listed below:

Applied Psychology Books

Author

An introduction to applied psychology

Griffith

Community Mental Health—A critical analysis

Bloom, B.

Community Clinical Psychology. London: Croon Helm

Koch, C.H.

Community Psychology: Concepts and Application

Mann, P.A.

Community Psychology: Values, Research and Action

Rappaport, J.

Q:   What are the various levels of analysis in Applied Psychology?

A:

It is believed that an individual’s behavior is affected by the people and surroundings. Thus, analysis at different levels is required to comprehensively understand human behavior. Given below are analysis in Applied Psychology at various levels:

Level

Description

Societal level

Social norms and customs affect a person’s behavior in public spaces.

Communal Level

The geographical area and the values of the community to which a person belongs.

Organisational Level

The job profile and job role a person has in an organisation along with the hierarchical structure and communication system of the organisation

Group Level

General rules or practices in a group of people be it formal or informal grouping.

Individual

The learnings from other people incorporated into one’s life.

Types of Applied Psychology Courses

Applied Psychology is offered as a specialization in Arts and Science degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These courses involve the study of Applied Psychology. BA in Applied Psychology and MA in Applied Psychology emphasized the sociocultural facets of Applied Psychology whereas BSc in Applied Psychology and MSc in Applied Psychology emphasized the physical aspects of Applied Psychology. Candidates can opt for either of the degrees offering Applied Psychology based on their interests, preferences and job prospects. Several colleges in India offer PG Diploma and PhD in Applied Psychology. Applied Psychology is also a major part of Psychology courses that are offered at various course levels.

Given below are some of the Psychology and Applied Psychology courses offered at various course levels in India:

Types of Applied Psychology courses

BA in Applied Psychology

BSc in Applied Psychology

BA in Psychology

MA in Psychology

MA in Applied Psychology

MSc in Applied Psychology

BSc in Psychology

MSc in Psychology

PG Diploma in Applied Psychology

PhD in Applied Psychology

Note: Applied Psychology can be covered as a subject or specialization in several other courses apart from those mentioned above.

Applied Psychology Online Courses

Given below are some Applied Psychology Courses available to pursue in the online mode of education along with course provider, course duration and average fee:

Applied Psychology Online Courses

Offered by

Course Duration

Average Fee (in INR)

Diploma in Modern Applied Psychology (DiMAP.)

UDEMY

52 Hours

389

Graduate Diploma in Applied Psychology

The University of Auckland

18 months

35,98,195 

Certificate in Applied Psychology: Mental Health Services

College of Southern Nevada

12 months

20,21,060 

Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology with a concentration in Media and Technology

University of Phoenix-Arizona

48 months

39,59,585 

Psychology and Human Relations Course

UDEMY

13 Hours

649 

Q:   What is the difference between psychology and applied psychology degrees?

A:
Psychology is a broad field that encompasses the study of human behavior and mental processes. An undergraduate degree in psychology provides a comprehensive education in the subject, covering topics such as developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and cognitive psychology. In contrast, an applied psychology degree focuses on the practical application of psychological principles in specific fields. Applied psychology degrees typically involve more specialised coursework and training than a general psychology degree. For example, you may pursue a degree in applied psychology in areas such as clinical psychology, counseling psychology, industrial-organizational psychology, forensic psychology, or sports psychology. These programs are designed to prepare students to apply their knowledge of psychology to solve practical problems and address specific issues in these fields. In summary, while a general psychology degree provides a broad foundation in the discipline, an applied psychology degree offers specialised knowledge and training to apply psychological principles to specific fields or contexts. Psychology is a vast subject that prioritizes theory and fundamental understanding over practical problem-solving solutions. In contrast, Applied Psychology focuses on the practical application of these theories in order to better serve the community. It is less theory-driven and more based on practical experiences.

Q:   What is the difference between applied psychology and clinical psychology?

A:
Applied psychology is the application of principles learned in scientific psychological research to real-world applications. Clinical psychology is the application of principles of scientific psychological research to the treatment of psychopathological conditions. Some of the treated conditions may be acute disorders but most are acute exacerbations of chronic mental disorders. Clinical psychology can also be usefully applied to helping mentally and emotionally healthy individuals maintain their state of health. In itself, clinical psychology applies the scientific method to treating patients.

Best Applied Psychology Colleges

Candidates can pursue Applied Psychology Courses from various government and private colleges. The government institutes offering Applied Psychology courses can be either under the Central Government or the State Government. The private institutes offering Applied Psychology courses can either be autonomous or be affiliated with a government college or another private institute. Candidates are advised to check if the college providing Applied Psychology courses is recognized by UGC and approved by AICTE.

Best Applied Psychology Government Colleges

Multitudinous government colleges offer Applied Psychology courses. These colleges are preferred by candidates for the excellent standard of education, recognition and brand value as well as affordability.

Given below are some of the top Applied Psychology government colleges in India that offer Applied Psychology course at various course levels:

Applied Psychology Government College

Applied Psychology Government College Fees (in INR)

Delhi University (DU)

10,890

MSU - The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda

27,500

Maharshi Dayanand University

800

Gautam Buddha University

2 Lakh – 2.8 Lakh

Bharathiar University

7,920

Best Applied Psychology Private Colleges

There are more number of private colleges in India than government colleges that offer Applied Psychology courses. Many candidates prefer private colleges as they provide good infrastructural facilities, industrial exposure, skills training and placement opportunities.

Given below are some of the top Applied Psychology government colleges in India that offer Applied Psychology course at various course levels:

Applied Psychology Private College

Applied Psychology Private College Fees (in INR)

Amity University, Noida

3.44 Lakh - 13.2 Lakh

Galgotias University

92,000 - 1.5 Lakh

Lovely Professional University

2 Lakh

Sharda School of Humanities & Social Sciences

1.93 Lakh

St. Francis College for Women

17,890

Applied Psychology Distance Education

Several colleges offer Applied Psychology courses in distance mode of education. These colleges offer direct admission to candidates based on merit. By enrolling in Distance education candidates can pursue Applied Psychology courses without attending regular college. They might have to attend seminars and submit assignments and projects.

Given below are some of the Applied Psychology Distance colleges in India along with their respective total course fee:

Applied Psychology Distance College

Applied Psychology Distance College Fees (in INR)

School of Distance Education, Bharathiar University

-

Annamalai University (Distance Education), Tamil Nadu

16,400

3.8 L - 13.2 L
3.0

#44 The Week

17.89 K
5.75 LPA

#42 Outlook

1 Course
76.5 K
4.42 LPA

#43 India Today

92 K - 1.5 L
3.3

#79 India Today

1.56 L - 3.28 L
3.6 - 4 LPA

#84 India Today

10.89 K
5.5 LPA

Q:   Which are the colleges that provide courses involving the study of Applied Psychology with low fees?

A:

There are various government and private colleges in India that offer Psychology courses with low fees. In these courses Applied Psychology is also covered. Some of these colleges are listed below:

Psychology Colleges

Fees (in INR)

Maharshi Dayanand University

800

GJUST-Guru Jambheshwar University of Science And Technology

4,400 – 8,800

Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for Women

4,400

Periyar University

6,000

Bharathiar University, Coimbatore

7,920

Q:   Does Delhi University offer any scholarship for Applied Psychology course?

A:

Delhi University (DU) offers various scholarships that are applicable to all colleges under DU for all courses. Some of which are listed below:

DU Scholarship Name

Course

The Delhi State Co-operative Union Book-Grant

1st  year in U.G.

Pt. Man Mohan Nath Dhar Book-Grant

1st year U.G./P.G

Sardar Kartar Singh Grover Memorial Book-Grant

BCA/BSC 1st Year

Puran Chand Khatri Book-Grant

1st year of 3 year degree course

Popular Private Applied Psychology Colleges in India

3.8 L - 13.2 L
3.0

#44 The Week

5 L - 6 L
1 Course
2.1 L
5.0

Applied Psychology Applications open. Apply Now

1 Course
2 L
6 LPA

Applied Psychology Applications open. Apply Now

4.8 L

Applied Psychology Applications open. Apply Now

6 L

Popular Applied Psychology UG Courses

Following are the most popular Applied Psychology UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Applied Psychology PG Courses

Following are the most popular Applied Psychology PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

Applied Psychology Course Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

Applied Psychology is considered a good career path. The field of Psychology and its branches are expected to grow in the coming years with the increasing awareness and emphasis on mental health. Applied Psychology has a wide range of applications and its knowledge can be used in various domains such as schools, colleges, hospitals, clinics, courts and government departments.

Candidates can also refer to: Career in Psychology 

Applied Psychology Job Profiles

There are various types of Psychologists each mastering in a specific area of work. Many colleges provide excellent placement opportunities to students pursuing Applied Psychology courses through which they can work in clinics and companies. They can also apply on online job portals that offer jobs in the field of Applied Psychology.

Given below are some of the top Applied Psychology job profiles along with their respective average annual salaries:

Applied Psychology Job Profiles

Average Salary (in INR)

Career Counselor

3.6 LPA

Organizational Psychologist

8.1 LPA

Educational Psychologist

1.2 LPA – 3 LPA

Sports Psychologist

4.9 LPA

Forensic Psychologist

6 LPA

Note: The Applied Psychology salaries mentioned above may vary depending on the company, its location and other factors.

Top Applied Psychology Course Recruiters

There are many government organisations and private companies that hire candidates who have studied Applied Psychology. These companies look for candidates with thorough subject knowledge, soft skills, industrial experience and good aptitude. Candidates can enhance their job prospects by making good projects and having internship experience.

Given below are some of the top Applied Psychology recruiters in India:

Applied Psychology Recruiters

YourDOST

Accenture

Heart It Out

Freelancer

Nones

Silver Oak Health

Manastha Health Solutions

Standard Chartered Bank

Q:   What are the skills required to become a good Psychologist?

A:

There are certain basic skills that a professional has to possess in order to be good in their profession.The candidates who have studied Applied Psychology and would like to pursue their career as a Psychologist are expected to have the below mentioned skills:

Good Psychologist Skills

Observer

Analyst

Avid Reader

Logical

Patient

Composed

Calm

Research Skills

Team Worker

Leader

Sensitive

Communication Skills

Applied Psychology FAQs: 2024

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions related to Applied Psychology:

Q:   Can you suggest some research topics related to Applied Psychology?

A:

Given below are some research topics on Applied Psychology that can be useful for candidates who wish to pursue PhD in Applied Psychology:

  • Current issues in cross-cultural psychology
  • Corporate Psychology
  • Student psychology
  • Self-Discipline and Self Control

Q:   What are the scientific core values that should a Psychologist should have?

A:

Applied Psychology is an interdisciplinary subject with a pragmatic approach that uses scientific methods to conduct research based on qualitative and quantitative tools. The core values of Applied Psychology that are scientific in nature are as follows:

Scientific Core Values of Applied Psychology

Description

Ethics

A primary value that is required by a Psychologist.

Scepticism

Scientific analysis and acceptance on the basis of logic and reasoning.

Accuracy

Precise measurement of readings and accurate information avoiding errors.

Open-mindedness

Can accept results without narrowing one’s view.

Objectivity

Can work keeping aside personal beliefs.

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Answered a month ago

Amity University Bengaluru has underpinned all those qualities that have made Amity institutions world-class over the last two decades. Amity has instituted global standards in education, training, and research with state-of-the-art infrastructure and the latest teaching methodologies to nurture the

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Surbhi Sahu

Guide-Level 13

Answered a month ago

Coursing through the northern eastern regional Institute Of Management (NERIM) which is located in Guwahati is a two year full time M.A .in Applied Psychology programme that is offered by Dibrugarh University. Feedbacks from §tudents on the course programme have been found to be mostly positive, wit

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Arindam Modak

Contributor-Level 9

Answered a month ago

Amity University, Noida BA (Hons) in Psychology course syllabus is inclusive of subjects related to the field of Psychology and related terms. The course curriculum includes both theory and practical subjects. Mentioned below are some of the subjects taught in the UG course:

  • Basics of Educational Psy

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Manori Sahni

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 2 months ago

Yes, you can often still get admission for an MA in Applied Psychology as a late admission, but it depends on the university and its specific deadlines. Some programs have flexible deadlines or accept late applications on a case-by-case basis. It’s best to check with the admissions office of the ins

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Nikita Kumari

Contributor-Level 6