Course Structure Overview
The Psychology program at Adamas University Kolkata spans four years and consists of 8 semesters, with each semester carrying a minimum credit load of 15-20 credits. The curriculum is structured to provide foundational knowledge in the first two years, followed by specialization in the last two years through departmental electives, science electives, and laboratory experiences.
| Year | Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Pre-requisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | 1 | PSC101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 2 | PSC102 | Psychological Research Methods | 3-0-0-3 | - | |
| 3 | PSC103 | Biological Bases of Behavior | 3-0-0-3 | - | |
| 4 | PSC104 | Developmental Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | - | |
| II | 5 | PSC201 | Cognitive Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSC101, PSC102 |
| 6 | PSC202 | Social Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSC101, PSC102 | |
| 7 | PSC203 | Personality Theory | 3-0-0-3 | PSC101, PSC102 | |
| 8 | PSC204 | Abnormal Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSC101, PSC102 | |
| III | 9 | PSC301 | Industrial-Organizational Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSC101, PSC102, PSC201 |
| 10 | PSC302 | Health Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSC101, PSC102, PSC201 | |
| 11 | PSC303 | Cognitive Neuroscience | 3-0-0-3 | PSC101, PSC102, PSC201 | |
| 12 | PSC304 | Behavioral Economics | 3-0-0-3 | PSC101, PSC102, PSC201 | |
| IV | 13 | PSC401 | Forensic Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSC101, PSC102, PSC201, PSC204 |
| 14 | PSC402 | Digital Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSC101, PSC102, PSC201, PSC301 | |
| 15 | PSC403 | Community Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSC101, PSC102, PSC201, PSC202 | |
| 16 | PSC404 | Psychology Capstone Project | 3-0-0-3 | All previous courses |
Advanced Departmental Electives
The following advanced departmental elective courses are offered to provide students with specialized knowledge and skills:
- Neuroimaging Techniques in Psychology (PSC305): This course introduces students to various neuroimaging modalities such as fMRI, EEG, and MEG. Students learn how these tools can be applied to study brain function and behavior, including hands-on experience with data acquisition and analysis software.
- Therapeutic Interventions in Clinical Settings (PSC306): Designed for students interested in clinical practice, this course covers evidence-based therapeutic techniques used in treating various psychological disorders. It includes supervised practicum experiences in local clinics and hospitals.
- Consumer Behavior Analytics (PSC307): Students explore the application of psychological principles to understand consumer decision-making processes. The course integrates behavioral economics theories with digital analytics tools to analyze market trends and design effective marketing strategies.
- Human Factors in Technology Design (PSC308): This elective focuses on how human psychology influences the design and usability of technological systems. Students learn about cognitive load theory, user interface design principles, and accessibility standards through case studies and practical exercises.
- Cross-Cultural Psychology (PSC309): An exploration of cultural differences in psychological processes and behaviors. The course emphasizes global perspectives on mental health, identity formation, and social interaction, preparing students to work effectively in multicultural environments.
- Mental Health Advocacy and Policy (PSC310): This course examines the role of psychology in shaping public policy related to mental health. Students analyze current legislation, advocate for change, and develop strategies for community-based interventions.
- Research Ethics and Compliance (PSC311): A critical examination of ethical considerations in psychological research, including informed consent protocols, data protection laws, and responsible conduct of research practices.
- Qualitative Research Methods in Psychology (PSC312): Focuses on non-numerical approaches to psychological inquiry, including interviews, focus groups, ethnography, and narrative analysis. Students gain skills in coding qualitative data and interpreting complex behavioral patterns.
- Cognitive Development in Educational Contexts (PSC313): Examines how cognitive theories apply to learning environments, particularly in early childhood and school-age development. The course includes fieldwork experiences in educational settings.
- Positive Psychology Applications (PSC314): Introduces the science of well-being and its practical applications in therapy, education, and workplace settings. Students learn to implement interventions aimed at enhancing happiness, resilience, and life satisfaction.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The Psychology program at Adamas University Kolkata emphasizes project-based learning as a cornerstone of experiential education. This approach ensures that students develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and real-world application skills from their early academic years.
Mini-projects are assigned during the third year, allowing students to explore specific areas of interest under faculty guidance. These projects typically span 6-8 weeks and require students to propose hypotheses, collect data, analyze results, and present findings in both written and oral formats. The goal is to foster independence while providing structured mentorship.
The final-year thesis or capstone project requires students to engage in an original research study or applied initiative that addresses a relevant problem in psychology. Students work closely with assigned faculty mentors to refine their ideas, design methodologies, gather data, and prepare comprehensive reports. This culminating experience mirrors professional standards and prepares students for advanced academic or career pursuits.
Evaluation criteria include the clarity of research questions, methodological rigor, analytical depth, presentation quality, and adherence to ethical guidelines. Students are also assessed on their ability to collaborate effectively within teams and communicate complex ideas clearly to diverse audiences.