Comprehensive Curriculum Overview
The Psychology program at G D Goenka University Gurugram is meticulously designed to provide a well-rounded education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. The curriculum spans eight semesters and includes core courses, departmental electives, science electives, and laboratory work. Each semester builds upon previous learning while introducing new concepts and methodologies.
| Semester | Course Code | Full Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PSY101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | PSY102 | Psychological Research Methods | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | PSY103 | Statistics for Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | PSY104 | Cognitive Processes | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | PSY105 | Social Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 2 | PSY201 | Developmental Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSY101 |
| 2 | PSY202 | Personality Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSY101 |
| 2 | PSY203 | Biological Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSY101 |
| 2 | PSY204 | Abnormal Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSY101 |
| 2 | PSY205 | Psychology of Learning | 3-0-0-3 | PSY101 |
| 3 | PSY301 | Clinical Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSY201, PSY202, PSY204 |
| 3 | PSY302 | Industrial Organizational Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSY201, PSY205 |
| 3 | PSY303 | Cognitive Neuroscience | 3-0-0-3 | PSY203 |
| 3 | PSY304 | Health Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSY201, PSY203 |
| 3 | PSY305 | Forensic Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSY204 |
| 4 | PSY401 | Positive Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSY301, PSY302 |
| 4 | PSY402 | Social Psychology Research | 3-0-0-3 | PSY205 |
| 4 | PSY403 | Psychological Assessment and Testing | 3-0-0-3 | PSY102, PSY103 |
| 4 | PSY404 | Educational Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSY201 |
| 4 | PSY405 | Psychopharmacology | 3-0-0-3 | PSY203 |
| 5 | PSY501 | Advanced Research Methods | 3-0-0-3 | PSY102, PSY204 |
| 5 | PSY502 | Qualitative Analysis Techniques | 3-0-0-3 | PSY102 |
| 5 | PSY503 | Neuroimaging in Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSY303 |
| 5 | PSY504 | Human Factors and Ergonomics | 3-0-0-3 | PSY205 |
| 5 | PSY505 | Cultural Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PSY201, PSY205 |
| 6 | PSY601 | Therapeutic Interventions | 3-0-0-3 | PSY301 |
| 6 | PSY602 | Behavioral Economics | 3-0-0-3 | PSY205, PSY304 |
| 6 | PSY603 | Research Project I | 0-0-3-3 | PSY501 |
| 6 | PSY604 | Psychology of Leadership | 3-0-0-3 | PSY302 |
| 6 | PSY605 | Community Mental Health | 3-0-0-3 | PSY301 |
| 7 | PSY701 | Advanced Lab Work | 0-0-6-3 | PSY603 |
| 7 | PSY702 | Internship in Psychology | 0-0-6-6 | PSY601, PSY604 |
| 8 | PSY801 | Final Year Thesis/Capstone Project | 0-0-9-6 | PSY701, PSY702 |
Advanced Departmental Elective Courses
The department offers a range of advanced elective courses designed to deepen students' understanding and prepare them for specialized roles or further study. Below are detailed descriptions of several key electives:
- Psychopharmacology – This course explores the mechanisms of action of psychotropic drugs, their effects on brain chemistry, and therapeutic applications in treating mental disorders. Students will study drug classes such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, and stimulants, examining both pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.
- Human Factors and Ergonomics – This course investigates how human capabilities and limitations affect interactions with technology, tools, and environments. Students learn about cognitive load theory, usability testing, user interface design, and ergonomic principles applied in workplace settings and digital platforms.
- Neuroimaging in Psychology – Using MRI, EEG, and other neuroimaging techniques, students gain hands-on experience with brain imaging data analysis, focusing on mapping neural correlates of cognition, emotion, and behavior. The course includes practical sessions using software like FSL, AFNI, and SPM.
- Cognitive Neuroscience – This advanced course combines psychological theory with neuroscience methods to understand how the brain supports mental processes such as attention, memory, language, and decision-making. It covers both foundational concepts and current research trends in cognitive neuroscience.
- Therapeutic Interventions – Focused on evidence-based psychotherapeutic modalities, this course explores Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other therapeutic approaches. Students engage in role-playing exercises and case studies to develop clinical skills.
- Behavioral Economics – This interdisciplinary course bridges psychology and economics, exploring how cognitive biases, emotions, and social influences affect decision-making. It includes topics such as prospect theory, loss aversion, nudging strategies, and behavioral interventions in public policy.
- Research Project I – In this capstone laboratory course, students work on a research project under faculty supervision. They design experiments, collect data, perform analyses, and present findings to the academic community, preparing them for independent research or graduate-level study.
- Internship in Psychology – Students gain real-world experience through placements at organizations such as hospitals, NGOs, government agencies, or private firms. This course emphasizes professional development, ethical practices, and practical application of psychological principles in diverse settings.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department strongly believes in project-based learning as a means to foster deep understanding and skill development. Projects are structured to allow students to explore real-world problems, collaborate with peers, and apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
Mini-projects begin in the third year, where students select topics related to their interests or specializations. These projects involve literature reviews, experimental design, data collection, and presentation skills. Faculty mentors guide students throughout the process, ensuring quality research outcomes.
The final-year thesis or capstone project is an extensive endeavor that requires students to conduct original research or apply advanced psychological theories to solve complex societal issues. The project must be completed independently, with support from a faculty advisor. Students are evaluated based on research methodology, critical analysis, clarity of communication, and presentation quality.
Students are encouraged to present their projects at conferences, publish in journals, or submit them for competition awards. This approach not only enhances academic achievement but also builds confidence and prepares students for post-graduation success in both industry and academia.