Comprehensive Course Structure for Psychology Program
The Psychology program at Presidency University Bangalore is structured to provide students with a comprehensive foundation in psychological principles while allowing them to explore specialized areas of interest. The curriculum spans 8 semesters, with each semester consisting of core courses, departmental electives, science electives, and laboratory components.
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PYS101 | Introduction to Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | PYS102 | Research Methods in Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | PYS103 | Biological Bases of Behavior | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | PYS104 | Cognitive Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | PYS105 | Developmental Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | PYS106 | Social Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | - |
| 1 | PYS107 | Psychology Lab I | 0-0-3-1 | - |
| 2 | PYS201 | Abnormal Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PYS101, PYS102 |
| 2 | PYS202 | Personality Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PYS101, PYS102 |
| 2 | PYS203 | Health Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PYS101, PYS102 |
| 2 | PYS204 | Psychopathology | 3-0-0-3 | PYS101, PYS102 |
| 2 | PYS205 | Statistics for Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PYS102 |
| 2 | PYS206 | Psychology Lab II | 0-0-3-1 | PYS107 |
| 3 | PYS301 | Clinical Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PYS201, PYS202 |
| 3 | PYS302 | Cognitive Neuroscience | 3-0-0-3 | PYS104, PYS103 |
| 3 | PYS303 | Industrial-Organizational Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PYS101, PYS201 |
| 3 | PYS304 | Neuropsychology | 3-0-0-3 | PYS103, PYS201 |
| 3 | PYS305 | Psychological Assessment | 3-0-0-3 | PYS201, PYS202 |
| 3 | PYS306 | Psychology Lab III | 0-0-3-1 | PYS206 |
| 4 | PYS401 | Advanced Clinical Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PYS301, PYS305 |
| 4 | PYS402 | Research Design and Analysis | 3-0-0-3 | PYS205 |
| 4 | PYS403 | Psychological Disorders in Children | 3-0-0-3 | PYS105, PYS201 |
| 4 | PYS404 | Therapeutic Techniques | 3-0-0-3 | PYS301, PYS305 |
| 4 | PYS405 | Psychology Lab IV | 0-0-3-1 | PYS306 |
| 5 | PYS501 | Advanced Cognitive Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PYS104, PYS205 |
| 5 | PYS502 | Social Cognition | 3-0-0-3 | PYS106, PYS201 |
| 5 | PYS503 | Cross-Cultural Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PYS101, PYS201 |
| 5 | PYS504 | Psychology of Learning | 3-0-0-3 | PYS104, PYS205 |
| 5 | PYS505 | Psychology Lab V | 0-0-3-1 | PYS405 |
| 6 | PYS601 | Advanced Neuropsychology | 3-0-0-3 | PYS304, PYS402 |
| 6 | PYS602 | Psychological Research Methods | 3-0-0-3 | PYS205, PYS402 |
| 6 | PYS603 | Psychology of Decision Making | 3-0-0-3 | PYS104, PYS205 |
| 6 | PYS604 | Psychology Lab VI | 0-0-3-1 | PYS505 |
| 7 | PYS701 | Special Topics in Psychology | 3-0-0-3 | PYS602 |
| 7 | PYS702 | Internship in Psychology | 0-0-6-6 | All previous semesters |
| 8 | PYS801 | Final Year Project/Thesis | 0-0-6-12 | All previous semesters |
The department's philosophy on project-based learning is deeply rooted in the belief that experiential learning enhances understanding and retention of complex psychological concepts. The program emphasizes hands-on research experiences that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.
Mini-projects are introduced starting from the second semester, with each project lasting approximately 4-6 weeks. These projects typically involve small groups of 3-5 students who work under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Students are expected to design research questions, collect and analyze data, and present their findings in both written and oral formats.
The scope of mini-projects includes literature reviews, experimental design, data collection methodologies, and statistical analysis. Each project is evaluated based on the clarity of research question, methodological rigor, data quality, and presentation skills. Students receive feedback from faculty members and are encouraged to iterate and improve their projects throughout the process.
Final-year thesis/capstone project represents the culmination of students' academic journey in psychology. The project typically spans 12 weeks and requires students to conduct independent research on a topic of their choice, under the supervision of a faculty mentor. Students must demonstrate mastery of research methodology, critical thinking, and communication skills.
Students select their final-year projects through a formal process that involves submitting proposal forms, meeting with potential mentors, and presenting preliminary research ideas. The selection process ensures that students' interests align with available research opportunities and faculty expertise.
Detailed Course Descriptions for Advanced Departmental Electives
Advanced Cognitive Psychology is designed to deepen students' understanding of mental processes including perception, attention, memory, and problem-solving. This course explores the computational models of cognition and their applications in artificial intelligence. Students will examine how cognitive psychologists study mental processes using experimental methods and neuroimaging techniques.
Cognitive Neuroscience introduces students to the neural basis of cognitive functions through interdisciplinary research. The course covers topics such as brain imaging techniques, neuroplasticity, and cognitive development from a neurological perspective. Students will engage in laboratory sessions where they learn to use EEG, fMRI, and other neuroimaging tools.
Industrial-Organizational Psychology focuses on applying psychological principles to workplace settings. Students will explore topics such as leadership theories, team dynamics, organizational culture, and employee motivation. The course emphasizes practical applications and case studies from various industries.
Neuropsychology examines the relationship between brain function and behavior. Students will study neurological disorders, cognitive impairments, and neuroplasticity. The course includes both theoretical concepts and clinical applications, with emphasis on assessment techniques and therapeutic interventions.
Psychological Assessment covers the principles and practices of psychological testing and measurement. Students will learn about different types of assessments including intelligence tests, personality inventories, and neuropsychological evaluations. The course emphasizes ethical considerations in assessment and interpretation of test results.
Advanced Clinical Psychology provides an in-depth exploration of clinical practice and research methodologies. Students will examine various therapeutic approaches, diagnostic criteria, and treatment modalities for psychological disorders. The course includes supervised practice sessions and case study analysis.
Research Design and Analysis teaches students to design rigorous research studies and analyze data using appropriate statistical methods. The course covers both qualitative and quantitative approaches to psychological research, with emphasis on experimental design and hypothesis testing.
Psychology of Decision Making explores how individuals make choices under various conditions including uncertainty and time pressure. Students will examine behavioral biases, heuristics, and the role of emotions in decision-making processes. The course includes practical applications in business, healthcare, and public policy.
Social Cognition examines how people process social information and form impressions about others. Topics include attribution theory, stereotyping, prejudice, and intergroup relations. Students will engage in research projects that investigate social cognitive processes using both experimental and observational methods.
Cross-Cultural Psychology investigates cultural influences on psychological processes and behavior. The course covers topics such as cultural values, communication styles, and mental health practices across different societies. Students will conduct comparative studies and examine the implications for global psychology practice.
Psychology of Learning focuses on how individuals acquire, retain, and apply knowledge and skills. The course covers classical conditioning, operant conditioning, observational learning, and cognitive learning theories. Students will explore applications in education, training, and behavior modification.
Psychology of Emotion explores the nature, function, and expression of emotions. Students will examine theories of emotion, emotional regulation, and the role of emotions in decision-making and social interaction. The course includes laboratory sessions where students learn to measure and analyze emotional responses.
Advanced Neuropsychology provides a comprehensive overview of neurological conditions and their psychological implications. Students will study brain-behavior relationships, neuroanatomy, and clinical applications of neuropsychological assessment. The course emphasizes evidence-based practice and current research findings.
Psychology of Personality examines theories of personality development and assessment. Students will explore various models including psychodynamic, behavioral, humanistic, and biological perspectives. The course includes practical components such as personality testing and therapeutic techniques.
Psychological Research Methods introduces students to advanced research methodologies in psychology. The course covers experimental design, survey methodology, qualitative research approaches, and ethical considerations in psychological research. Students will develop skills in literature review, hypothesis formation, and data analysis.