What is Applied Psychology: Full Form, Course Duration, Admission 2025, Colleges, Salary & Scope

Updated on Jan 7, 2025 04:04 IST
Muskan Chugh

Muskan ChughContent Writer

You can study Applied Psychology at various levels of your career, like UG, PG, and doctoral.Psychology courses are a study of the mind and behavior, exploring how people think, feel, and act. It teaches students how to understand Psychology in real-world applications.

Applied Psychology Courses: Highlights 

Students interested in pursuing an Applied Psychology course can take a look at the details in the table below:

Particulars

Details

Course Name

Applied Psychology

Levels

Graduation, Post Graduation, Doctoral

Duration

Graduation: 3 Years

Post-graduation: 2 Years

Doctoral: 3 Years

Eligibility

Graduation: Pass class 12 from a recognized board and secured a minimum of 50%

Post-Graduation: Graduate from a recognized board and secured a minimum of 45%

Exams

CUET, CUET PG, UGC NET

Top Colleges

Delhi University, Dibrugarh University, Gautam Buddha University, Amity University

Fees

INR 10,000- INR 1.5 Lakh

Distance Learning Colleges

Annamalai University and School of Distance Education, Bharathiar University

Top Job Profiles

Clinical Psychologists, Consultants, Psychotherapists, Therapists, Practitioners, Counsellors, etc. 

Top Recruiters

Amity University, T & A Solutions, Fortis Healthcare, Shiv Nadar University, Roots and Routes Counselling & Psychotherapy Centre, ACRO, Pearson, etc.

Average Salary

INR 4 LPA - INR 9 LPA

 

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.

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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.

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Q:   What are Psychology courses?
A:

Psychology courses are vast course and they can be divided into several specialisations. Both Arts and Science streams are offered in this domain. Psychology is rarely offered as a five-year integrated course in colleges. The duration of the Psychology course varies according to the programme level (undergraduate or postgraduate) and type (full-time, part-time, certificate, etc.).
For a full-time programme, the UG level programmes are of three years duration, whereas the PG programmes are of two years duration. The pedagogy of Psychology courses involves both theories as well as practical lessons.

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Table of content
  • Why Pursue Applied Psychology Courses
  • Applied Psychology Courses: Eligibility Criteria
  • Applied Psychology Courses: Admission 2025
  • Applied Psychology Courses: Entrance Exams 2025
  • Types of Applied Psychology Courses
  • Applied Psychology Courses Syllabus
  • Best Applied Psychology Colleges
  • Popular Private Applied Psychology Colleges in India
  • Applied Psychology Course Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
  • Applied Psychology FAQs: 2024
  • Popular Applied Psychology UG Courses
  • Popular Applied Psychology PG Courses
View More

Why Pursue Applied Psychology Courses

There are many benefits to pursuing Applied Psychology courses. Some of these benefits of pursuing Applied Psychology courses have been listed below:

  • Applied Psychology degrees focus on applying the study of Psychology in the real world. Many companies hire candidates with a profound knowledge of Psychology.
  • Applied Psychology courses involve theoretical, research-centered as well as human-interaction-based projects, that improve the employability of a candidate.
  • A degree in Applied Psychology will open up many professional opportunities in fields like policy-making, counseling, healthcare institutions, corporations, and legal institutions, human resources, etc.

Similar Courses:

Bachelor of Arts Course

BA Philosophy Course

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.

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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
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Applied Psychology Courses: Eligibility Criteria

 

Applied Psychology Course

Eligibility Criteria

Applied Psychology UG Courses

Pass class 12 from a recognized board and secured a minimum of 50% marks.

Applied Psychology PG Courses

Graduate in any discipline and secure a minimum of 55% aggregate marks.

Applied Psychology PhD Courses

The candidate should have completed their postgraduate degree in Applied Psychology or a relevant field.

Applied Psychology Certificate Courses

Pass class 12th can also go for one-year certificate courses related to Applied Psychology courses

Source: Multiple external sites (information may vary)

Also Read:

Ph.D. in Psychology Course

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.

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Q:   Do I need to study Psychology in 12th for B.A Applied Psychology?
A:

Hi!

No, it is not necessary for a student to study Psychology in 12th if they want to study BA Applied Psychology courses. Students from all streams and academic backgrounds can study BA Applied Psychology if they have completed their class 12th from a recognised board, with at least 45% marks. 

All students can pursue the BA Applied Psychology course if they wish to study about the Psychological theories and apply those theories to real-world applications, to help a company/oranization grow.

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Applied Psychology Courses: Admission 2025

Candidates can check a general overview of the Applied Pshycology admission process below:

  • Make sure you meet the eligibility
  • Apply online by flling up the form
  • Take entrance exam
  • Wait for the merit list and result
  • If selected, attend the counselling session
  • Get the documents verified and pay the fee to secure the seat

Note: The info is taken from other sources and can be different.

Q:   What is the admission procedure for Applied Psychology from distance colleges?
A:

The admission procedure for Applied Psychology distance courses admission is basically the same as that of a regular institute. Students will have to first fill up the admission application form of the University, using their official website. They typically ask for personal details, id-proof and a nominal application fees. 

The colleges prepare and release the list of selected candidates. The list is usually based on merit or entrance exam scores. Once this list is released, students can pay the application fees to confirm their admission and start their academic journey.

Q:   Which documents do I need for admission to Applied Psychology course?
A:

Students who wish to get admission to a University or Institute for Applied Psychology courses, usually have to fill out the application forms and attach some personal documents, for verification processes. Some documents that are generally required for admission to various colleges are Class 10 mark sheet, Class 12 mark sheet, Photo ID Proof (Aadhaar Card/ PAN Card/ Voter's ID/Driving License, Passport, etc.), Passport Size Photographs, Migration Certificate, Transfer/Character Certificate, Documents related to SC/ ST/ OBC/ EWS/ PWD/ ECA if a reservation is availed by the students.

Applied Psychology Courses: Entrance Exams 2025

Refer to the table below for more information on entrance exams in this field of study.

Entrance Exams

Exam Schedule

CUET

CUET Schedule

CUET PG

CUET PG Schedule

UGC NET

UGC NET Schedule

Source: Official website of the institute/exam.

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Q:   Is CUET exam date announced?
A:

National Testing Agency (NTA) will announce the CUET 2026 exam date in first week of March. NTA will conduct the CUET UG 2026 exam tentatively in May/June 2026. The exam will be conducted in multiple slots each day. NTA will conduct CUET UG 2026 exam in two slots: 9 AM to 12 PM and 3 PM to 6 PM.

CUET 2026 registrations will commence at cuet.nta.nic.in. Candidates willing to appear for the CUET for admission to UG courses at Central, State, Private, or Deemed universities must complete the online application form to appear for the CUET 2026 exam. Only registered candidates can appear for the exam as per the schedule.

Types of Applied Psychology Courses

Applied Psychology courses are available in various modes of education as per your interest and comfort. Here are some types of Applied Psychology courses classified based on their mode of education, along with a brief description:

Types of Applied Psychology Courses

Applied Psychology Course Details

Full-Time Applied Psychology Courses

Regular or full-time Applied Psychology courses are among the most popular options opted by students. Students attend the lectures and seminars in the college premises. It aids students in their holistic development. There is a lot of scope for extracurricular activities at the college or inter-college level.

Distance Applied Psychology Courses

The students do not attend regular college in the Distance mode of Applied Psychology courses. They receive study materials and get access to the student portal. They would only have to appear in person for seminars and final examinations.

Online Applied Psychology Courses

An Online Applied Psychology Programme can be pursued by candidates who wish to pursue Applied Psychology courses without attending regular college or appearing for offline exams. The admission process, lecture delivery, submission of assignments, and semester exams are conducted online.

Relevant Articles:

Psychology Courses Details

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.

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

 

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.

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
3.1

#81 India Today

Applied Psychology Applications open. Apply Now

17.89 K
5.75 LPA

#42 Outlook

92 K - 1.5 L
3.4

#79 India Today

1.64 L - 3.84 L
3.6 - 4 LPA

#84 India Today

Applied Psychology Applications open. Apply Now

1 Course

#77 Outlook

2.88 L
3.6 LPA

#86 The Week

Applied Psychology Applications open. Apply Now

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

68 K
5.0
2 Courses
1.41 L - 1.79 L
2.8
92 K - 1.5 L
3.4

#79 India Today

1.98 L

Applied Psychology Applications open. Apply Now

1.24 L - 2.76 L
3.18 LPA

Applied Psychology Applications open. Apply Now

1 Course
2 L

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

Applied Psychology is a good career path because it is expected to grow in the coming years with the increasing awareness on mental health. 

Applied Psychology Job Profiles

Candidates can see the list of jobs below:

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 salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.

Top Applied Psychology Course Recruiters

Candidates can see the list of recruiters below:

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.

Q:   What is difference between BA in psychology and B.Sc in psychology?
A:
Hello Dhiraj, BA psychology students take the course in a more traditional way whereas the BSc Psychology students take the course in the modern way.The traditional significance and importance of Psychology as a subject is imparted to the students of the BA Psychology course whereas the application of it is with the BSc Psychology course.The period of study of BA Psychology is three years in most universities. On the other hand, the period of study of BSc Psychology is also three years in most universities but a few other universities prescribe four years of study for the completion of the course.BA Psychology students tend to study subjects such as philosophy and logic more than the students of BSc Psychology students. I hope this answers your question to your satisfaction. If so, kindly upvote this answer. If you have any further questions, kindly revert.

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

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Answered 2 months ago

Yes, listed below are the top government Applied Psychology colleges in India along with their tuition fees:

Public/Govt. Colleges

Tuition Fee

Ramanujan College Admission

INR 76,500

MSU Admission

INR 32,380

Maharshi Dayanand University Admission

INR 800

Gautam Buddha University Admission

INR 2.2 Lacs – INR 2.8 lakh

GJUST Admission

INR 6,000

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

T

Tasbiya Khan

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

Yes, joining the best Applied Psychology colleges in India can be worthwhile for you. For that, you need to check its ROI. Listed below are some colleges along with their tuition fees and average placement package:

Top Colleges

Tuition Fee

Average Placement Package

St. Francis College for Women Courses

INR 17,890

INR 5.75 LPA

Ramanujan College Courses

INR 76,500

INR 4.42 LPA

Amity University, Gurugram Courses

INR 1.64 Lacs – INR 3.84 lakh

INR 3.6 LPA – INR 4 LPA

Amity University Lucknow Courses

INR 2.88 lakh

INR 3.6 LPA

Amity University, Mumbai Courses

INR 4.64 lakh

INR 6.2 LPA

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

T

Tasbiya Khan

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

Yes, it is estimated that joining the best Applied Psychology colleges in India can be affordable as most colleges have tuition fees of less than INR 1 lakh:

Low-cost CollegesTuition Fee
St. Francis College for WomenINR 17,890
Ramanujan CollegeINR 76,500
Galgotias UniversityINR 92,000
MSUINR 32,380
Maharshi Dayanand UniversityINR 800

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

T

Tasbiya Khan

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

As per popularity basis, listed below are the top Applied Psychology colleges in India. Listed below are the top colleges along with their tuition fees:

Top CollegesTuition Fee
Amity University, NoidaINR 3.8 Lacs - INR 13.2 lakh
St. Francis College for WomenINR 17,890
Ramanujan CollegeINR 76,500
Galgotias UniversityINR 92,000 - INR 1.5 lakh
Amity University, GurugramINR 1.64 Lacs - INR 3.84 lakh

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

T

Tasbiya Khan

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 months ago

About 65+ best Applied Psychology colleges in India. Some of the top Applied Psychology colleges in India include Amity University Noida, St. Francis College for Women, Ramanujan College, Galgotias University, Amity University Gurugram, Amity University Lucknow,  Rathinam College of Arts and Science

...Read more

T

Tasbiya Khan

Contributor-Level 10