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How to become a School Psychologist

Becoming a psychologist in a school is a rewarding career choice for individuals who have a passion for helping students’ mental, emotional and academic well-being at various stages in their lives, from kindergarten to the more problematic part of their lives – like 8th grade or high school. These psychologists team up with kids, teachers, parents and heads of the departments of school to make sure there is a conducive learning atmosphere. 

Moreover, they tackle learning difficulties among others such as behavior challenges and emotional disorders. Do you want to be a psychologist in a school? Is it possible that a joiner could become a psychologist? This article answers all questions regarding the training of a person who aspires to become a psychologist in a school.

Understanding the role

School psychologists play a pivotal role in helping students academically, socially, and emotionally successful. They collaborate with teachers, parents, and other professionals to develop safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments. Some of the roles include — interpersonal relationships, mentor/protegee situations and relationship dynamics with parents as well as teachers.

  • Carrying out psychological evaluations to identify areas of learning and behavior needs.
  • Offering counseling services to students.
  • Making individualized education programs for those children who require special attention.
  • Advisory services to teachers and parents regarding schoolwork or psychological problems.
  • Enhancing awareness about mental health issues and intervention programs within schools.

How to become a psychologist in a school

For those wondering how to become a child psychologist in India, or for information about what it takes to become a psychologist for a school. Here are the steps involved:

#1. Get an undergraduate degree in Psychology

In your journey to becoming a school psychologist, the first move should be made toward attaining a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology or a related field. During your course work in college, you should take several areas like infancy to adolescence to study — areas that are geared towards developmental psychology and have contributed greatly to a much better understanding of this phenomenon today than ever before.

#2. Get a Master’s degree in Psychology

After you have finished your undergraduate studies, the next step is to pursue a Master’s degree that majors in either school or child psychology. When taking these courses, one is encouraged to consult a top psychology university to get a quality education since education believes they produce good psychologists.

This is important for those who want to know how can we get into school psychology as well as other areas such as clinical or forensic psychology but not limited to it since some people have an interest in becoming sports psychologists among many others. To become a licensed professional working in schools all over India you need a Master’s from a recognized university for credibility.

3. A Postgraduate Diploma or internship in School Psychology

For one to graduate with a Master’s degree, one needs to have working experience as a clinical or educational psychologist. Through this, one will have a general understanding of what they are expected to do in their line of work. 

In most schools in India, students must undergo postgraduate diplomas or internships in school psychology although they must already have a Master’s degree in psychology to qualify. In addition, clinical experience might not be necessary but it would be useful while working with some challenging cases.

4. Get certified and licensed

A school psychologist needs certification or a license they can present that proves their credentials for having trained within that specific sector of education. Due to this reason, many require a postgraduate diploma or an internship in school counseling whereas others combine the two as part of their training programs. Moreover, they may be required to join certain professional bodies or register with boards that regulate their practice within the country.

5. Attain advanced certifications

Sometimes, higher qualifications are necessary for this role to be able to work in specialized areas such as neuropsychology or pediatric psychology. To become a board-certified psychologist in a school, you must meet certain requirements of the National Association of School Psychologists.

Salary expectations for this role

You can earn between INR 4 lakh and 8 lakh per year which depends on your level of qualification & experience in the country as demography makes it has varied income earned by school psychologists.

Conclusively, this role requires research-based strategies and assessment tools that can easily identify children’s mental illnesses or specific health problems which may include autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other behavioral disorders.

Can a commerce student become a psychologist?

One of the questions that frequently arise is whether it is possible for a student from a commerce background to study psychology. Indeed yes! Typically, psychology courses are pursued by art or science students although Commerce students can still venture into the field by engaging in postgraduate study in psychology. 

A number of universities run psychology programs that do not require the discipline as a prerequisite at the undergraduate level. Thus, Commerce students must be ready to study basic psychology early enough to enable them to transition effectively.

How to become a child psychologist in India

To become a child psychologist in India, it’s quite analogous to becoming a psychologist in a school. Nonetheless, a children’s psychologist is one who is more likely to work in diverse situations such as hospitals and private clinics among others than just schools.

Studying through Online Manipal

Online Manipal enables access to high-quality online education by linking it with various departments of the integrated universities belonging to the Manipal Group. Through Online Manipal, adults who wish to continue their education or career can earn online degrees like undergraduate and postgraduate degrees from Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Sikkim Manipal University (SMU) and Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ).

The following courses by SMU can establish a solid foundation to pursue Psychology and become a psychologist:

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA)
  • Master of Arts in English (MA)
  • Master of Arts in Sociology (MA)
  • Master of Arts in Political Science (MA)

At Online Manipal, an online MBA from MUJ can be very lucrative for jobs requiring leadership skills and business insights, particularly for those with work-study balance issues. In this way, working psychologists who also want to develop business acumen can do so without letting go of their jobs. Online Manipal offers a range of online degree courses that can be relevant to individuals pursuing school psychologist roles by providing foundational knowledge, specialized education as well as flexible learning options.

The bottom line

If you are considering becoming a school psychologist, you should go ahead with it because it is a satisfying job that lets you help students maintain emotional and psychological stability. If you are a student of commerce who wants to know whether you can switch to psychology or already pursuing this path, as a child psychologist, you will have to get advanced education and practical experience.

Online Manipal is, therefore, a perfect platform for students willing to continue with education without limiting their schedules in any way including working professionals who desire more qualifications. Check out Online Manipal’s online degree courses to amp up your resume and pursue higher education in alignment with your goals.

Unlock opportunities with our top online degree programs

Bachelor’s DegreeMaster’s Degree
Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)Master of Computer Applications (MCA)
Bachelor of Arts (BA)MSc in Data Science (MSc-DS)
Bachelor of Commerce (BCOM)- MUJMaster of Commerce (MCOM)
Bachelor of Commerce (BCOM)- SMUMaster of Arts in English (MA)

Top Courses to Pursue after a BA

One of the most popular courses students pursue is the Bachelor of Arts (BA) program. A BA allows you to study various areas, such as languages, artistic fields, behavioral sciences, and humanities. Numerous job paths in education, media, public relations, marketing, business, government, non-profits, and other fields become available upon completing a BA. 

Furthermore, a BA’s flexibility frequently enables graduates to seek additional specialization through professional certificates or advanced degrees. Thus, if you have already completed your BA and are on the lookout for high-paying courses after BA, then we have got you covered. In this blog, we will dive deep into some of the best courses after BA in detail.

Top courses to consider after BA

Below is a list of potential top degrees after BA, divided into master’s degrees, diplomas, and professional certificates, along with the job roles graduates can pursue after each.

Master’s degreeDiplomaCertification
Master of Arts (MA)Diploma in International RelationsTEFL/TESOL Certification Course
Master of Business Administration (MBA)Diploma in Event ManagementGoogle Analytics Certification
Masters in Journalism and Mass CommunicationPostgraduate Diploma in Management
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

Master’s degree

A master’s degree, usually lasting one to two years, enables graduates to expand their knowledge in a particular field. Here are some common master’s programs students take up after a BA:

  1. Master of Arts (MA)

A Master of Arts (MA) usually takes one to two years to complete, depending on the program, and can involve coursework, research, and a thesis. In some fields, such as history, literature, political science, sociology, philosophy, or fine arts, an MA offers a deeper expertise and knowledge. Once you pursue a Master of Arts, some of the job roles you can explore include:

  • Teacher/Professor: In schools or universities
  • Researchers: In academic or think tank institutions
  • Writer/Editor: For publishing houses, media outlets, or content-creation firms
  • Policy Analyst: For government agencies or NGOs
  • Cultural Consultant or Museum Curator: For arts and heritage organizations
  1. Master of Business Administration (MBA)

One of the most well-liked postgraduate degrees that gives students a wide range of business and management skills is the Master of Business Administration (MBA). Leadership, finance, marketing, operations, human resources, and strategic planning are among the commonly covered topics in an MBA. The degree prepares students for taking challenging job roles, including:

  • Marketing Manager: Oversees initiatives related to branding and marketing activities.
  • Human Resources Manager: Leads recruitment strategies and collaborates with different departments to understand their personnel requirements. 
  • Operations Manager: Supervises daily business operations, logistics, and project management.
  • Consultant: Advises companies on management practices and efficiency improvements.
  1. Masters in Journalism and Mass Communication

A Master’s in Journalism and Mass Communication (MA JMC) is an advanced degree designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge and skills in the fields of journalism, media, communication, public relations, and broadcasting. Its job roles include:

  • Journalist: Covers news stories, writes articles, and conducts interviews.
  • News Anchor: Presents news stories on television or online platforms, often delivering live updates or special reports.
  • Editor: Oversees and edits content as per guidelines.
  • Media Analyst: Assesses media coverage, audience engagement, and content effectiveness.
  1. Master of Fine Arts (MFA)

A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) program is a great choice for students aspiring to pursue a career in fine arts, focusing on theater, writing, painting, and sculpture. Graduates can pursue creative, educational, and entrepreneurial roles like the following:

  • Art Director: Leads the visual direction for advertising campaigns, magazines, movies, video games, and more.
  • Museum Educator: Designs educational programs and exhibitions. 
  • Choreographer: Creates dance performances and collaborates with dancers and other creatives.
  • Filmmaker: Produces, directs, and makes short films, documentary films, or movies.

Diplomas

You can also go for diploma courses after your BA. These can be ideal for those looking to shift careers or develop expertise in a specific area. A few popular options are as follows:

  1. Diploma in International Relations

A Diploma in International Relations provides valuable foundational knowledge for those interested in global politics. It opens up diverse career opportunities in diplomacy, NGOs, foreign policy, international business, and more. Some common job roles are:

  • Diplomat: Represents a country’s interests abroad and manages foreign relations.
  • International Relations Analyst: Researches and analyzes global political trends.
  • NGO Program Coordinator: Manages international development or humanitarian programs.
  • Human Rights Officer: Monitors human rights violations, conducts research, and writes reports for safeguarding human rights.
  1. Diploma in Event Management

A Diploma in Event Management is a program that equips students with the skills to plan, organize, and execute various events, including corporate meetings, weddings, conferences, festivals, trade shows, and entertainment. Some roles you can take up include:

  • Event Planner: Plans and coordinates celebrations, including conferences, weddings, and business gatherings.
  • Venue Coordinator: Manages event spaces, ensuring smooth operations and logistics.
  • Corporate Event Manager: Handles corporate meetings, trade shows, and product launches.
  1. Postgraduate Diploma in Management

A Postgraduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) is a shorter, specialized, and more focused business management program designed for graduates with a bachelor’s degree to enhance managerial skills and knowledge. It aims to fast-track their careers in management, entrepreneurship, or other business-related fields. Common roles include:

  • Business Consultant: Advises businesses on operations, strategy, and growth.
  • Project Manager: Oversees specific projects from initiation to completion.
  • HR Manager: Manages employee relations, recruitment, and training programs.

Professional certificates

Professional certifications typically focus on skills-based learning and offer quicker, more practical paths to enhancing employability or advancing in your current career. Some of the best certifications and top degrees after BA include:

  1. TEFL/TESOL Certification Course

A TEFL/TESOL certification opens the door to a rewarding career in teaching English to non-native speakers. For anyone wishing to teach English overseas, the globally recognized TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certifications are essential. Some roles you can take up after this certification include:

  • EFL Teacher (English as a Foreign Language Teacher): Teaches English where it is not a native language and focuses on speaking, reading, and writing skills. 
  • IELTS/TOEFL/ESL Exam Preparation Teacher: Teaches or prepares students for standardized English proficiency exams and improves their test-taking strategies.
  • Curriculum Developer: Develops the English language curriculum and creates educational resources.
  1. Google Analytics Certification

Google Analytics Certification is a professional credential for those proficient in using the platform for website performance tracking and analysis. Common roles after completing the course include:

  • Digital Marketing Specialist: Measures digital marketing campaigns across various channels, tracks KPIs, and works with cross-functional teams.
  • SEO Specialist: Analyzes the effectiveness of SEO strategies, tracks website performance, and monitors organic search rankings.
  • Content Marketing Manager: Measures the effectiveness of content marketing, tracks the user journey, and optimizes content strategy accordingly.

Check out what you can do with a BA.

Why you should choose Online Manipal after your BA

Online Manipal offers a wide range of postgraduate and professional programs that can enhance your career prospects after completing your BA. As the world becomes more digitally connected, the need for flexible and accessible learning options has grown. Online Manipal meets this demand by offering high-quality, accredited programs delivered through an online platform. Some of the best courses post BA offered by Online Manipal include:

The program provides access to case studies, live industry projects, and internships with top organizations. Its strong focus on global business, entrepreneurship, and digital transformation makes it ideal for those looking to advance in the corporate world or start their businesses.

This program provides advanced knowledge of media, journalism, broadcasting, and digital content creation, ideal for those looking to break into the media or communications industry. Students can gain expertise in digital media management, public relations, media law, video creation, and journalism.

This is a great option for those passionate about literature, writing, and linguistic studies. The program enhances communication, analysis, and critical thinking skills. Graduates can explore careers in education, content creation, publishing, and research.

Online Manipal offers a comprehensive curriculum, practical learning, and industry connections for students interested in management, technology, digital marketing, finance, arts, and communications. It serves as a valuable next step after a BA, equipping students with the necessary skills for success.

Conclusion

Your career path can be greatly impacted by the course you take after earning your Bachelor of Arts. You will have a better chance of success if you choose a program that not only fits your interests but also helps you develop the skills that you lack. The courses listed above, along with their job descriptions, will help you find high-paying courses after your BA, whether your goal is to progress in your current field, explore a new industry, or acquire specialized expertise.

Can I do MCA without maths and computer science background?

Curious about pursuing a Master of Computer Applications (MCA) degree but worried about your lack of a mathematics background? Fear not! The online MCA program from Manipal University Jaipur is designed to help you excel in the digital world, even if math wasn’t your forte in school. This online MCA degree equips you with essential technical skills, critical thinking, and adaptability, enabling you to thrive in today’s tech-driven job market. Ready to embark on a journey that reshapes your career from the comfort of your home?

To know more, read MCA course details: All you need to know.

What makes MCA a good choice?

The incursion of the Indian economy, the emergence of tech applications, and the growth of IT firms are all predicted to result in more individuals being employed in the IT sector in the coming years. MCA is thus one of the top career possibilities with significant remuneration for those interested in working in the IT industry. The online MCA program is intended for individuals who hold bachelor’s degrees and want to get a master’s in computer applications but don’t have the time to go to traditional classes. The following are the advantages of earning an MCA online.

  • Career progression 

Whether an experienced professional or a fresh graduate, taking an MCA course will give you an edge in your field. This degree significantly increases a person’s chances of career progression as it covers computer hardware, software, and networking in-depth and at a high level of technical sophistication.

  • Extensive technical skills

The rigorous technical training that the MCA program provides students helps them to master cutting-edge technical skills propelling them to advance in their careers. Learners in the program also gain a thorough understanding of internal and external operations. They receive excellent hands-on instruction in advanced technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.

  • Higher compensation

You are entitled to a high salary if your skills match the needs of the industry, regardless of your degree of experience. Professionals will receive greater income packages with an MCA degree because it will assist them in advancing their skills and becoming more desirable in the tech field.

  • Advanced study options

Earning an MCA paves the way for challenging and exciting higher education options. Artificial intelligence, the internet of things, blockchain, parallel computing, and other fascinating computer science and applications offer options for impassioned and dedicated MCA graduates to push the boundaries of their technical expertise.

  • Scope outside India

Along with skills, knowledge, and experience, obtaining an online degree from a well-respected, recognized, widely acclaimed institution only increases the degree’s value. The MCA degree opens various doors for you in your own country and foreign countries because the IT sector rules worldwide, which is a great advantage of pursuing an MCA

What is the eligibility criteria for an MCA degree?

  • Students must have graduated with a degree in computer applications, computer science, or a similarly related discipline and have earned at least 50% of their UG marks to be eligible for the MCA program.
  • One required subject for Class 12 is mathematics, which all students must take.

The eligibility requirements may differ in different universities; this is merely a general overview.

You may be interested to know about Common Universities Entrance Test (CUET) examinations to take admission in central universities and other partnering universities in India.

Pursue an online MCA without math and computer science background

At Online Manipal, students can enroll in MCA programs without mathematics and IT background. Offered by Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) and Sikkim Manipal University (SMU), these 100% online programs is a launchpad for learners from all walks of life to settle in a job in the burgeoning IT industry. Let’s check how you can pursue an MCA without maths from these universities.

Online MCA from Manipal University Jaipur

The online MCA offered by Manipal University Jaipur, is intended for individuals who desire to be inventive, strategic technology figureheads in this rapidly transforming marketplace. Also, students get access to Google Cloud Computing Foundations program, which will familiarize them with the broad scope of cloud technologies via theories, practical labs, evaluations, and a capstone project on topics including big data, cloud infrastructure, machine language, and application development, to name a few. Even students who don’t have a math or computer science background can also enroll in the MCA program at MUJ and graduate equipped for a career in the IT sector.

Eligibility for admission to Online MCA at MUJ

  • Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in computer applications, computer science, or information technology with a minimum of 50% overall (45% for reserved categories) from an accredited university or a comparable degree acknowledged by the AIU  (Association of Indian Universities) or other authorized bodies.
  • Applicants from different fields, like Business Administration or Management, Science, Arts & Humanities, and Commerce, must hold a 10+2+3-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or a similar degree recognized by the AIU or other appropriate bodies with Math at the 10 2 levels and a minimum of 50% overall in their graduation (45% for reserved categories). Such students must attend and successfully pass a Bridge Course in Computer and IT Fundamentals in addition to their first Semester.
  • Candidates who did not take math throughout their 10+2 or bachelor’s degree programs must also take and pass a mandatory math bridge course in addition to the other semester one course.

To know more, read How does an MCA course benefit IT professionals’ careers?

Online MCA from Sikkim Manipal University

On the other hand, the online MCA from Sikkim Manipal University (SMU) is designed thoughtfully to empower learners in the ever-evolving realm of information technology. The curriculum delves into essential aspects of computer applications such as advanced programming languages, deep learning, artificial intelligence, and more, providing a robust foundation for tackling the challenges of the digital landscape. A key feature of the program is its emphasis on fostering collaboration among peers, allowing students to build a global network of like-minded professionals.

Eligibility for admission to Online MCA at SMU

  • Candidates must have completed 10+2+3-year bachelor’s degree in Computer Applications/Computer Science/Information Technology from a recognized university/institution, or an equivalent qualification as recognized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) or other competent bodies
  • Candidates who have completed 10+2+3-year bachelor’s degree from other streams like Science, Business Administration, Business Management, Arts & Humanities, Commerce, etc. are also eligible for MCA admission but they have to attend and complete a compulsory bridge course in fundamentals of computer and IT along with their Semester 1 courses. Additionally, candidates who have not studied mathematics during their 10 + 2/ bachelor’s degree programs must attend and complete a compulsory bridge course in mathematics along with other semester 1 courses.
  • Candidates must have a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate in graduation (45% for reserved categories).

Benefits of having maths and IT background for an MCA program

Having a background in mathematics and IT can provide a significant advantage when pursuing a Master of Computer Applications (MCA) degree. Here’s why:

  1. Enhanced problem-solving skills: A strong foundation in mathematics sharpens your analytical and problem-solving abilities, making it easier to tackle complex algorithms and computational tasks in the MCA program.
  2. Solid technical foundation: Familiarity with IT concepts and technologies ensures that you have a head start when delving into advanced topics in computer applications, programming, and software development.
  3. Efficient learning curve: Students with prior knowledge in math and IT often find it easier to grasp new concepts quickly by reducing the learning curve and enabling them to excel in their studies.
  4. Versatility in career options: The combination of math and IT knowledge opens up diverse career opportunities, as employers highly value professionals who can apply mathematical models to solve real-world IT problems.
  5. Critical thinking and logical reasoning: Math enhances critical thinking and logical reasoning, essential skills for troubleshooting, debugging, and optimizing software and systems.
  6. Better performance in technical courses: Courses like data structures, algorithms, and database management systems often require a solid understanding of mathematical principles, which can lead to better performance and deeper understanding.

While a background in math and IT isn’t a strict prerequisite for an MCA degree, it certainly enriches the learning experience and prepares students for the challenges of the IT industry. However, with the bridge courses offered by MUJ & SMU at Online Manipal, students who choose to pursue online MCA from these universities can earn a solid background in IT & Mathematics during the initial stage of the program.

Conclusion

The MCA degree equips you with the skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s dynamic tech landscape, even without a prior background in math or IT. It opens doors to lucrative careers, strengthens your technical expertise, and prepares you to contribute to the ever-evolving world of technology.

Universities like Manipal University Jaipur and Sikkim Manipal University offer MCA programs designed for students without a math background. They provide exceptional guidance, effective teaching methods, and a strong track record of placement success. Visit onlinemanipal.com to learn more and take the first step towards your rewarding tech career!

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