Degree in Psychology from Abroad: Top Universities, Eligibility

Is Psychology Science or Social Science?

Interestingly enough, Psychology as a subject borders on the life and social sciences. While understanding the human mind is deeply rooted in science, the fact remains that behaviours are also governed by the society we live in. As such, the study of Psychology relates to studying both sciences as well as an understanding of social sciences.

BSc Psychology Eligibility

Psychology as a subject has gained momentum over the past few years. With new career opportunities opening in the domestic markets, more and more students are now eyeing universities abroad for a degree in Psychology that would help them get the edge.

Ideally, if you are looking for a bachelor’s degree in Psychology abroad, then you need to have two things — a strong understanding of Science and Mathematics as well as a broad view and base in social sciences. There is yet no definitive requirement as such.

For undergraduate studies, the requirement in knowledge would be broadly categorized by the kind of degree the university is offering. For instance, a BA or Bachelor of Arts would ideally accept a student with a foundation in Arts and Humanities while a BSc or Bachelor of Science in Psychology would ideally look for Science subjects – Biology, Organic Chemistry, and Mathematics.

Masters in Psychology Eligibility

For a master’s program, while in India many universities might simplify and request for a previous degree in Psychology, Universities abroad may not be that selective. A bachelor’s degree in Arts or Science might make you eligible. This however would vary from programme to programme and university to university.

For PhD in Science in Psychology abroad, a good GRE score along with an IELTS or TOEFL score, you may land in good abroad colleges that also offer scholarships.

Psychology Abroad – Programme Structure and Length

The length and eligibility of a programme depend upon three factors:

1. Type of Programme: Arts & Science
2. Country of Pursuit
3. University of Pursuit

Typically, a 3-4 years long undergraduate programme in Psychology would help you develop a strong base to understand Psychology as a subject. A 2-3 years master’s degree, on the other hand, would help you specialise in Psychology. Some of the master’s subjects would be based on research. A PhD in Psychology is a three-year purely research-based degree, which also requires its applicants to have a sound background in Psychology.

Top Universities for Psychology Abroad

Here’s a list of the best schools for psychology in the world:

(Source: QS World University Rankings)

What is the Job of a Psychologist?

It is important to know what can one do with a psychology degree. A career in psychology may involve setting up own clinics, working in hospitals, educational institutions, NGOs, corporations, etc. Some of the job roles related to psychology include psychotherapist, social worker, educational psychologist, counsellor, rehabilitation counsellor, etc.

Being studied for a long time, Psychology has been appreciated as a subject by reputed global universities. While the subject was not given much significance in India, research on the subject has left a lot to be desired. Though many Indian Universities are catching up to the demand for young Psychologists and opening up the domain, students still look abroad to embellish their qualifications with a stint overseas.

If you are planning to study psychology abroad as a career beyond academia, you must be interested in looking up courses abroad. Here’s a quick look at what all kinds of abroad degrees are offered in Psychology and which top universities offer the same.