Choosing Between BA Hons in Applied Psychology vs Psychology at the University of Delhi
The University of Delhi (DU) offers a Bachelor of Arts Honours (BA Hons) programme in Psychology, which is a comprehensive and versatile course. This article compares the BA Hons in Psychology with the BA Hons in Applied Psychology, exploring their differences, course structures, and potential career paths.
Overview of the Courses at DU
Both BA Hons in Psychology and BA Hons in Applied Psychology are offered at DU, though the focus and structure of these courses differ slightly. As a student, it’s essential to understand these differences to make an informed decision about which path to pursue.
Course Structures and Credit Systems
Similarities: Both courses follow a credit system and offer a similar number of core papers over the course of three years (8 semesters). However, there are distinct differences in the way the courses are structured and the flow of content.
Differences in Course Structures
First Year: In Applied Psychology, Research Methodology and Statistics are introduced in the first year, forming the foundation for research and data analysis. The General course, on the other hand, includes one core paper in the first semester and another in the third semester. The Applied course may have a more cohesive curriculum, as the papers develop logically over the semesters. However, this structure may not be as evident in the General course.
Second and Third Years
Both courses require students to choose two electives per semester in the third year. Despite the differences in elective offerings, the core papers often cover similar topics, with Applied Psychology sometimes omitting biopsychology. Some course names and titles differ, but the syllabi remain largely the same. For instance, 'Developmental Psychology' in the General course corresponds to 'Life Span Development' in the Applied course.
New Elective Options: The Applied course has introduced new elective options such as Neuropsychology and Geriatric Psychology. However, their availability depends on the faculty of the college you choose to study in, which can vary by institution.
Career Prospects and Specializations
Students pursuing a BA Hons in Applied Psychology may have more specialized training, making them better prepared for certain careers or specialized research areas. For instance, Applied Psychology provides a focused curriculum that can prepare students for careers in neuropsychology, geriatric psychology, and other specialized fields.
Clinical, Social, and Counseling Psychology
From the perspective of clinical, social, and counselling courses, there is little difference between the two honours programmes. The General course offers a broad understanding of psychology, while the Applied course provides a more focused path. This can be beneficial depending on your specific career goals and interests.
Conclusion
Choosing between BA Hons in Applied Psychology and Psychology at DU ultimately depends on your career goals, academic interests, and future aspirations. If you’re seeking a broader foundational course, the General program may be more suitable. For specialized training and a more focused curriculum, Applied Psychology might be the better choice.