TISS MA Applied Psychology FAQs
Ques. What is the Boulder Model approach used in the MA Applied Psychology programme?
Ans. The Boulder Model is a foundational framework for clinical psychology training that emphasizes developing scientist-practitioners. This approach combines rigorous research training with practical clinical skills development. The MA Applied Psychology programme at TISS follows this model while adopting a developmental and contextual stance, ensuring students are equipped with both research capabilities and practical clinical competence to address mental health challenges in diverse socio-cultural contexts.
Ques. What are the specialization options available in the programme?
Ans. The MA Applied Psychology programme offers specialization options in Semester III and IV through disciplinary electives. Students can choose from child and adolescent psychotherapy, couple and family therapy, foundations of trauma therapy, school counselling, counselling older adults, advanced assessment and therapeutic techniques in clinical practice, and substance use and addiction counselling. These specializations allow students to develop expertise in specific areas of clinical and counselling practice.
Ques. What is the fieldwork and internship component in the programme?
Ans. The programme includes extensive fieldwork totalling 14 credits across all four semesters. Fieldwork practicum is conducted in Semesters I, II, III, and IV in diverse settings including hospitals, psychiatry settings, and generic community setups. Additionally, students must complete a compulsory 90-hour internship in mental health settings. This practical component is linked to disciplinary electives, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world clinical settings under professional supervision.
Ques. How does the programme address the mental health crisis in India?
Ans. The programme directly addresses India's critical shortage of trained mental health professionals. According to the Mental Health Survey (2015-16), the treatment gap for mental disorders ranges from 70-92%, and India has only one psychiatrist for every 200,000-300,000 people. The MA Applied Psychology programme trains clinical and counselling psychologists who can provide mental health services in diverse settings, contributing to bridging this significant gap in mental health service delivery.
Ques. What career opportunities are available after completing MA Applied Psychology from TISS?
Ans. Graduates can pursue careers as clinical psychologists, counsellors, mental health professionals, researchers, and educators in various sectors including hospitals, mental health clinics, schools, NGOs, government agencies, and private practice. Many graduates work in community mental health programmes, trauma counselling, school counselling, substance abuse treatment, and family therapy. The programme also prepares graduates for further studies in specialized areas of psychology or related fields.
Ques. How does the programme emphasize self-awareness and professional development?
Ans. The MA Applied Psychology programme emphasizes developing students' self-awareness as a foundational component of clinical practice. The curriculum includes courses on human growth and development, ethics in clinical practice, and socio-cultural contexts of counselling. Inbuilt supervision throughout the practice components allows students to receive feedback from trained professionals, facilitating personal and professional growth. This reflective approach ensures graduates are equipped with both technical skills and emotional intelligence necessary for effective clinical practice.
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