Are you a recent graduate looking to embark on a rewarding career? Do you want to help people by understanding their thought processes and behaviours? If so, then psychology courses may be the perfect choice for you. With an increasing focus on mental health and well-being, the field of psychology has become more important than ever before.

In this article, we'll explore various career paths available in psychology, types of courses offered after 12th grade, and popular specialisations and skills required for success in the field.

What is Psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour, thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Psychologists help individuals deal with life’s challenges by applying their knowledge to diagnose and treat mental illnesses or behavioural disorders. They are trained to identify the underlying causes of psychological issues and provide treatment to manage them.

The role of a psychologist involves conducting research, identifying patterns in behaviour, and developing strategies to address these issues.

Popular Career Paths in Psychology

A career in psychology can be very rewarding for those who have an interest in understanding human behaviour. Two popular career paths that one can pursue after completing 12th grade are Clinical Psychology and Counselling Psychology.

Clinical Psychology

Clinical psychology is a popular career option for individuals interested in helping people who are struggling with mental health issues.

To become a clinical psychologist, you need a postgraduate degree in clinical psychology from a recognised institution. A specialisation in clinical neuropsychology can enhance your career prospects further.

Educational Qualifications Required: A bachelor’s degree in psychology followed by a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology

Specialisations available: Clinical Neuropsychology, Forensic Psychology, and Sports Psychology.

Job Potential: Hospitals, clinics, private practice

Average salary: ₹3-8 lakhs per annum

Counselling Psychology

Counselling psychology deals with providing therapy and support to people dealing with emotional or behavioural difficulties across settings like schools, hospitals, or rehabilitation centres.

Educational Qualifications Required: A bachelor’s degree in psychology followed by a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology

Specialisations available: Educational counselling, Rehabilitation counselling, Marriage and Family Therapy, Addiction Counselling, and Career Counselling.

Job Potential: Hospitals, clinics, schools

Average salary: ₹2-5 lakhs per annum

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Types of Psychology Courses After 12th

Bachelor’s Degrees in Psychology

Bachelor's degrees are undergraduate-level programmes offering a thorough understanding of fundamental concepts related to the field of psychology, including social psychology, developmental psychology, etc.

The curriculum covers theoretical concepts about social psychology, personality development, and cognitive processes, along with practical training through internships and projects.

Eligibility criteria for admission:

• Minimum aggregate score of 50%
• Entrance exams like DUET/UET/JAMIA/BHU/PATNA/IISER, etc. are required for admission.

Course duration and fee structure:

• Three years
• Tuition fees range between ₹1-3 lakhs per annum.

Master’s Degrees in Psychology 

Master's degrees in psychology are postgraduate programmes that can be pursued after completing a Bachelor's degree in Psychology.

The course offers specialised knowledge about various aspects of psychology, including Cognitive neuroscience, behavioural science, etc. The curriculum covers advanced-level concepts along with practical training through internships and research projects.

Eligibility criteria for admission:

• Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in psychology or related fields.
• Entrance exams like GATE/NET/JAMIA/BHU/PATNA/IISER are required for admission.

Course duration and fee structure:

• Two years
• Tuition fees range between ₹2 and 5 lakhs per annum.

Diploma/Certificate Courses in Psychology

Diploma and certificate courses offer vocational training on specific aspects of psychology. These courses are ideal for individuals who want to gain knowledge and skills to add value to their current profession or anyone looking to explore different horizons within psychology.

Diploma and certificate courses offer specialised knowledge in various areas of psychology, including Child Psychology, Organisational behaviour, etc. These programmes provide students with a foundational understanding of the particular subject matter along with practical applications.

Eligibility criteria for admission: Variable by course

Course duration and fee structure: 6 months to 1 year; fee is usually below ₹50,000.

Upskilling Opportunities in Psychology

Certification courses are an excellent way to upskill yourself in specialised areas of psychology that are gaining increasing popularity in India. These courses include:

• CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy)
• DBT (Dialectical Behaviour Therapy)
• REBT (Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy)
• Abnormal Psychology
• Positive Psychology
• Forensic Psychology

To pursue a certification course in any specialised field of psychology, you must have completed at least a master's degree or a bachelor's degree from any recognised institution or university.

The duration and fee structure of these programmes depend on their nature and complexity. For example, a six-month course on CBT can cost around ₹ 50K, while a one-year programme on DBT can cost around ₹2 lakhs.

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In-Demand Skills for a Successful Career as a Psychologist

To succeed in the field of psychology, employers look for various skills, which include:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Emotional intelligence and empathy
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving ability
• Ethics and professionalism
• Knowledge of psychological theories, models, and research methodology

Many courses offer training in psychological skills that are in demand by employers. Online courses on communication skills, analytical thinking, or ethics can help you upskill from the comfort of your home. Additionally, internships and mentorship programmes provide hands-on experience while honing your professional competencies.

Growth Prospects for Psychologists in India

The field of psychology has enormous growth potential in India, as people are becoming increasingly aware of mental health issues and seeking professional help. With growing awareness around the importance of mental well-being, there is a rising demand for psychologists across various sectors.

According to a report in the Employment Outlook 2020 report by TeamLease Services, there will be a 20–25% growth in employment opportunities for mental health professionals by 2025.

Importance of Psychology Courses After 12th

In today's fast-paced world, psychology has become an increasingly significant field. From clinical to counselling psychology, there are multiple career paths that you can pursue with psychology courses after 12th grade. Continuous learning and upskilling are crucial in this field to stay updated and grow in your career.

Remember, WIZR offers financing options through their platform for eligible candidates who wish to enrol in career-focused upskilling or certification programmes.

FAQs

1. Which branch of psychology will have better growth in the future?

Organisational psychology is expected to grow rapidly as businesses seek professionals who can enhance workplace productivity and employee well-being.

2. Is there a demand for Indian psychologists for jobs abroad?

Yes, there is a growing demand for Indian psychologists abroad due to their strong academic background and intercultural competence.

3. How much does a session with a child psychologist cost?

The cost of a child psychologist session varies between INR 1000 and INR 3000, depending on their experience and location.

4. Can I seek counselling online?

Yes, online counselling is becoming increasingly popular due to its convenience and accessibility.

5. Are criminal psychologists part of investigative teams?

Yes, criminal psychologists are often part of investigative teams as they provide valuable insights into criminal behaviour and motives.

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