Navigating Career Choices: Psychology to HR Transition

Hello,

I have completed my BA in Psychology. Now, I want to pursue a career in HR. However, my college mentor is suggesting that I consider pursuing an MA in Industrial Psychology. I am unsure about whether to opt for some professional courses like PGDHRM or DHRM, or to go for an MA.

Would you mind providing me with your expert advice on this matter?

Thank you.

Hi,

1. You should find out why you want to pursue a career in HR.
2. You should match your skills and interests to the requirements and opportunities in HR.
3. Speak to your friends working in HR fields and find out the actual responsibilities and job nature.
4. You need to know what you will do after completing your MA.
5. If you are determined to pursue a career in HR, consider joining a diploma course in HR or enrolling in a full-time or part-time PG course.

I have tried my best to help you. I hope this advice will assist you in making your decision. Feel free to ask any questions or share any ideas. Please let me know your decision.

Romit

Hi,

I think, as your lecturer suggests, you should pursue a MA. A HR professional should possess knowledge of understanding a human's mind, and as a Psychology student, you can excel in this field.

Industrial psychology was first developed in the United States in the early 1900s and has since been applied, usually through personnel and office administrations, to industrial management in industries around the world. This is particularly prominent in countries where there is a growing concern for the systematic and scientific examination of the issues faced by workers in the industry.

Hi Nishita,

First and foremost, don't be confused. The career, whatever it may be, should be according to your liking because it is what you have to do a career in it. So, if you choose something that you like, you will give more dedication than the option implemented by your professor or anyone else. I am not saying your professor may be wrong; you can always take advice from seniors, but the decision should be your own. Make the right decision without getting confused. Study about the course, the prospects after completion, etc.

All the very best for the future.

Regards,
Priya

Dear NISHITA,

Psychology teaches you a broad range of skills, spanning those traditionally associated with both arts and science degrees, and offers you a wide range of career prospects, including becoming a professional psychologist in, for example, the health service, education, or business.

This degree allows you to embark on careers in areas such as Market Research, Human Resources, Teaching, and Social Work, or may train as a Professional Psychologist, for example in Clinical, Health, Educational, Forensic, or Occupational Psychology.

As a matter of fact, Psychology is really about life and HR is an important part of professional life. So you must not be disappointed with your present educational status. As you already have a BA (Psychology) degree, I would suggest that you go for PGDip (HRM), if possible select a daytime program. Besides, you can always register as a part-time M.A. student while doing another activity.

For more information about career planning, please read my previous posts at CiteHR:

1. Career Development Roadmap (PPT)

2. Managing your CAREER in... (PPT)

You may also find some pertinent details regarding PGDip courses by reading these posts:

1. Diploma & PGD in HR and

2. Certification in HR.

Please don't get confused or depressed. Just remember "What man can imagine, Man can do". While it's difficult to imagine what we don't have right now, but if you are optimistic and start thinking outside of the box, God will create the perfect career path for you! Start thinking like a Psychologist :) ok.

Wish you all the very best for your future, and hope that you'll learn a lot about HRM from this forum. Good luck!

Warm Regards,

Adnan

Thank you very much for your beautiful advice. However, there is one problem: all postgraduate courses for HR are quite expensive, and I cannot afford them. So, for now, I have decided to enroll in a Master's program, and after completing that, I will definitely get a job (not very exciting, but it's okay!). Along with that, I will also pursue a diploma course in HR. Is that okay?

Thank you once again to all of you. Please do reply to me about my decision.

Goodbye and regards,
Nishita 😊

Hi Adnan,

Once again, your response has been absolutely amazing! We are really proud of you and appreciate your efforts and time to compile your answers. Keep it up.

Cheers,
Rajat

Hello NISHITA,

I have completed my BA in Psychology. Now, I am interested in pursuing a career in HR. However, my college mam is suggesting that I consider pursuing an MA in Industrial Psychology. I am unsure about whether I should opt for professional courses like PGDHRM or DHRM, or go for an MA. What would you recommend?

I believe that going for PGDHRM or an MBA in HR would help you streamline your career in HR. If you can afford regular studies, you may enroll in a full-time program. Otherwise, you can pursue these qualifications through distance learning from a reputable university.

I wish you all the best in making your decision.

Best Regards,
GOURISANKAR.S
Assistant Professor, HR OB
ICFAI SAMBALPUR
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As per my understanding, psychology has a huge demand in the market if you have good communication skills. Assisting or helping a country head will not be possible in common layman language. Today, most IT employees need this. Consider entering this field only. Slow but definitely wins the race. Good luck.