Self Finance
Post Graduate Department of Psychology
Vision:
Promoting an understanding of psychology in order to create more efficient individuals in society who are competent to help people, thus playing an important role ushering in a new society.
Mission:
To instil an understanding of psychology, to help people to know themselves and to bring about the realization that psychology is to be lived and not just studied.
The Abbé Faria Post Graduate Department of Psychology, was established in 2001 with a vision of promoting an understanding of psychology, and since then, it has been enthusiastically involved in creating efficient individuals in society who are competent to help people, thus, ushering in a new society. The department is affiliated to the Goa University.
In 2006, the department was named after Abbé José Custódio de Faria, (30 May 1746 -20 September 1819), a Goan Catholic priest, who was one of the pioneers of the scientific study of hypnotism, and who is also adjudged to be the Father of Hypnotism.
Lab-In-Charge
Ms. Francisca Da Cruz
Scope of Psychology
Psychology, as a dynamic and evolving discipline, offers a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, cognition, emotion, and social interaction across diverse contexts. The field spans multiple specializations such as clinical, counseling, organizational, developmental, social, health, and forensic psychology, allowing learners to explore both theoretical frameworks and applied dimensions. With growing awareness around mental health, well-being, and human performance, psychology plays a crucial role in addressing individual and societal challenges. The discipline integrates scientific research, ethical practice, and cultural sensitivity, equipping students with the ability to analyze complex human experiences, design interventions, and contribute meaningfully to personal and community development.
Career and Employability Options
A postgraduate degree in psychology opens pathways to a wide range of professional opportunities across healthcare, education, corporate, social service, and research sectors. Graduates can pursue careers as clinical psychologists, counselors, school psychologists, HR professionals, behavioral trainers, researchers, and academicians, subject to further specialization and licensing requirements where applicable. Opportunities also exist in NGOs, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, corporate organizations, and government agencies, where psychological expertise is increasingly valued. Additionally, the program equips students with transferable skills such as critical thinking, communication, empathy, and data analysis, enhancing employability in interdisciplinary fields. With the rising demand for mental health professionals and people-centric roles, psychology graduates are well-positioned for both traditional and emerging career avenues.
An M.A. in Psychology from the Abbé Faria Postgraduate Department of Psychology prepares students for diverse career paths in mental health, education, research, and organisational settings. The programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical exposure through workshops, field visits, internships, outreach activities, and research work, enabling students to develop the skills required for professional practice.Graduates can pursue careers in counselling and mental health services, working in schools, colleges, hospitals, NGOs, rehabilitation centres, and community organisations. With additional training and supervised experience, students may specialise in counselling, psychotherapy, child guidance, addiction rehabilitation, or community mental health.
Students are also well suited for roles in Human Resources, training, and organisational development, where psychological knowledge is useful in recruitment, employee welfare, leadership training, and workplace well-being programmes. Opportunities are also available in social service organisations, educational institutions, and developmental projects.
Those interested in academics and research may pursue NET/SET, Ph.D., M.Phil., or specialised professional courses, leading to careers in teaching, research, school counselling, clinical settings, and advanced psychological practice. The programme provides a strong foundation for higher studies as well as for professional work in applied psychology.
The Department has a wide collection of books, journals and psychological tests of international as well as national publications. Annually, the department purchases newer editions of books and testing instruments along with renewed journal subscriptions. Besides having a well furnished laboratory to ensure smooth conduct of its practicum classes, all the M.A class rooms have LCD projectors to facilitate in teaching-learning. The department also provides computer and internet facility to its students.
The M.A. Programme in Psychology offers two categories of courses: Core and optional. The M.A. Programme has three specializations:
- Clinical Psychology
- Counselling Psychology
- Human Resource Management
A Journey That Came Full Circle
When I joined the postgraduate programme in Psychology at St. Xavier’s College in 2022, I was looking for more than just a degree – I was looking for a foundation. What I found far exceeded my expectations.
The Department of Psychology offered an environment that was both academically rigorous and deeply nurturing. The faculty didn’t just teach us theories; they mentored us, challenged us to think critically, and encouraged us to find our own voice as emerging professionals in the field. The curriculum struck the perfect balance between theoretical depth and practical application, preparing us not only for examinations but for real-world challenges in the discipline.
Upon completing my post graduation in 2024, I have had the opportunity to return to the very department that shaped me – this time as an Assistant Professor. Since July 2025, I have had the privilege of contributing to the same academic community that once invested in me, and I can say with conviction that the values of excellence, empathy, and intellectual curiosity that define this department are very much alive.
– Ms. Vaishnavi Ghosarwadkar
Being a part of the MA Batch of 2022 was a truly unique experience, as my academic journey unfolded across both offline and online modes of learning during the pandemic. As a half-COVID batch student, I faced several challenges, but these experiences shaped me into a more adaptable, resilient, and independent learner. The transition from classroom interactions to virtual learning was made smoother by the constant support, guidance, and dedication of my faculty, who ensured that my academic growth was never compromised.
The department played a significant role not only in imparting theoretical knowledge but also in encouraging critical thinking, practical application, and personal development. Even in uncertain times, the sense of connection, mentorship, and academic rigor remained strong.
Today, it feels incredibly special to be working as a teacher in the same department that once nurtured me as a student. This full-circle journey reflects the quality of education and the values instilled in me. I am truly grateful to now contribute to the same learning environment that shaped my academic and professional growth.
– Ms. Janice Zuzarte