Cancer is not merely a physical disease but also a mental health issue. It is not only restricted to individuals with cancer but also affects the family members. India reported over 14.13 lakh new cases of cancer and 9.16 lakh deaths in the year 2022. India is a country with 1.5 billion lives, where every 9th person will face the daunting diagnosis of cancer in their lifetime, amounting to more than 12 crore people.
Cancer overwhelms the family members by creating complex emotions and lifestyle changes so we can say approximately four more people from the family will be indirectly affected by this news. This brings us to the daunting figure of 60 Cr people who would need psycho-oncology services in the near future. What's the situation on the ground? We have 1 oncologist behind approx 2000 patients and 7 psychologists behind 1 Cr population … If You think this is a bad situation then let's not get into how many psycho-oncologists we have .. they are almost non-existent!

A psycho-oncologist supports cancer patients, families, and caregivers by addressing the psychological and emotional impact of the disease. They offer counseling, coping strategies, and emotional support to help patients manage anxiety, depression, and uncertainty associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, they facilitate communication among patients, families, and healthcare providers, improving understanding and decision-making. Psycho-oncologists focus on enhancing quality of life by addressing pain, fatigue, and other symptoms, while also providing support for end-of-life care and bereavement. Their role complements medical treatment, aiming to improve overall well-being and resilience throughout the cancer journey for patients and their support networks.

The Texas School of Mental Health In association with the Indian Institute of Technology–Hyderabad, has developed a Post Graduate Diploma Program in Psycho-Oncology. This program has been crafted through the collaborative efforts of an Academic Panel and Faculty Members specializing in fields such as Oncology, Psychiatry, Psychology, Social Work, Academia, and individuals who have experienced cancer. Delivered in a hybrid format, the program encompasses a comprehensive understanding of Oncology, real-time case studies, demonstrations of expert counseling, and in-depth explanations provided by professionals. The curriculum is further enhanced by a substantial internship component and a concluding week of residential learning.

● Graduates with a background in psychology.
● Any graduate with prior exposure to cancer in general.
● Any graduate demonstrating interest, compassion, and empathy.
● Graduates aspiring to contribute to society and bring about a positive change.
● Graduates seeking a meaningful career transition.
● Graduates with a psychology background are eligible for direct enrollment in the PG Diploma in Psycho-Oncology.
● Non-psychology graduates will go through a bridge course covering the fundamentals of counseling psychology.

Certainly. If you do not have a background in psychology, you can still be eligible for this program. Graduates with a psychology background can directly enroll in the PG Diploma in Psycho-Oncology. However, non-psychology graduates will need to undergo a bridge course that covers Introduction to Psychology and Fundamentals of Counseling Psychology. Upon completing this bridge course, you can proceed to the psycho-oncology course modules.

For Psychology Background Total number of hours- 530 hrs And to be completed on or before one calendar year. Non-Psychology Background Total number of hours- 650 hrs (Bridge Course-120 hrs) And to be completed on or before one calendar year.

For Psychology Graduates:

For Non-Psychology Graduates:

Here is the step-by-step procedure to apply for the program:
1. Registration - Go to the link https://tsmhfs.com/apply/
2. Login
3. Then fill out the application form - personal & educational details.
4. In the last section you have to write 250 words explaining ‘why you are interested in pursuing this program?
6. Click on the "Submit" button.
7. An email will be sent to you confirming the successful submission of your application.
8. Your application will undergo processing, and our expert team will assess your eligibility and the statement of purpose.
9. If you are selected you will receive a confirmation mail with an online payment link.
10. After payment your admission will be confirmed. Note that admission will close on first come first serve basis mode.
*The last date for application is 20th Feb. 2025

Your application will undergo processing, and our expert team will assess your eligibility and the 250-word statement. Admission will close on first come first serve basis.

The batch will have a maximum of 25 learners.

The program is structured with a distribution of 60% online learning and 40% in-person engagement.

Live sessions are scheduled once a week, which lasts two hours and are aligned with the content covered during the respective week. These interactive sessions will be led by a subject expert on the Zoom meeting platform followed by questions and answers. The live sessions will be recorded and accessible for learners if they miss any; however, attendance is mandatory as it contributes to scholarship eligibility and evaluation. Also, you will miss an opportunity to interact with faculty or participate in the discussion

Texas School of Mental Health, USA has signed Consulting Service Agreement with IIT Hyderabad on 1st Feb 2023 for the Post Graduate Diploma in Psycho-Oncology. As per the consulting association, IIT Hyderabad through Dr. Mahathi Chittem, (Associate Professor of Health & Medical Psychology, IIT Hyderabad) has contributed in developing the course and has identified four subject experts (faculties) from the industry. and has designed, developed and delivered ten sessions of the course.

Yes, Upon successfully finishing the online course + residential program + internship, participants will receive the certificate.

The PG Diploma program is meticulously crafted by experts with extensive backgrounds in Oncology, Psychology, Psychiatry, research, academia, Cancer care Social workers, cancer survivors, family members, and psycho-oncologists. While the Texas School of Mental Health operates in the US and the Netherlands, the program is launched in association with a distinguished institution of India, IIT Hyderabad.

The program's foundation is rooted entirely in real-time case studies, and the faculty members are exceptionally experienced in their respective domains. The comprehensive internship program is meticulously structured to provide students with a blend of practical exposure and valuable learning experiences.

Last but not least, an essential consideration is the demand and supply of psycho-oncologists both in India and across the globe. The demand for psycho-oncologists stands at a five-figure count, whereas the available professionals are only in the two-figure range.

We have initiated the pioneering first step. In due course of time, we expect you to make an indelible impact globally in the way cancer is treated.

Content will be available as the course progresses. You will get access to content on a weekly basis and you will be able to access all content till the present week. You can complete it at your own pace. Until the present week, you can access all content as many times as you like. But once you submit the assessment or assignment you can not attempt it again, you can only see your response. In case of any query, you can directly contact us.

There are various types of assignments, including:
1. Objective-type questions with single choice & multiple-choice answers, where assessment results are immediately visible.
2. Descriptive questions necessitating type based responses, ranging from short to long answers.
3. Application-based assignments allow flexibility in completion, where you can take your time and upload your work to the provided course link.

1. Attendance in live lectures
2. Participation in a residential program
3. Completion of all online course assignments within the specified timeframe
4. Comprehensive evaluations of the internship, which involve both an internship viva and the submission of the project report.

During the program, some parts offer flexible learning, but others require sticking to a fixed schedule. For example, you must attend live sessions weekly, take part in the residential program, complete your internship on time, complete your assignments in a given time frame, and meet specific deadlines.
Nonetheless, you have the freedom to manage the weekly study at your own pace.

Yes. Expert-led live sessions will take place once a week, focusing on the subject matter covered during the respective week. Also, there is an online forum where you can discuss with your fellow batchmates.

The course is entirely conducted online and presented in digital format. The educational material will be accessible through recorded videos, audio files, lectures, PowerPoint presentations, and written text. In addition, we will be giving you external links to relevant research material and study resources available on the internet. We recommend you take notes during your learning. At the commencement of each week, you will receive the learning content designated for that specific week.

Yes. There will be a dedicated in-house support team to assist you with technical difficulties. Also, you can contact us at this mail ID - info@texasschoolmh.com, or on this contact number +91 95453 00800.

*Taxes will be applicable as per country rules.

The design of the internship is intended to offer a comprehensive and hands-on approach to the field of psycho-oncology. This internship entails engaging with 15 cases that encompass various types of cancer. These cases will encompass individuals living with cancer, family members, caregivers, volunteers, and medical professionals.

Step 1 - Identify 15 cases of different types of cancer
Step 2 - Create a questionnaire and get it approved from our experts
Step 3 - Fill intake form for each patient (Personal details & cancer history)
Step 4 - Take an interview according to the questionnaire
Step 5 - Make a report on 15 cases analysis and submit it
Step 6 - Complete your internship viva based on the project report

This program spans five days and includes various activities or sessions throughout its duration -
● Interaction with experts & colleagues
● Dialogue with the stakeholders
● Panel discussions
● Films & film discussions
● Role Plays

In the event of a personal emergency leading to your absence from a live session, it's imperative to notify the academic coordinator promptly. Fortunately, all live sessions are recorded and will be accessible for online learning purposes. In case you miss a deadline, please contact us at this email id - info@texasschoolmh.com This will differ from case to case and can be handled accordingly.

Absolutely! Through our online technology platform, you can actively engage in a forum designed for discussion, sharing, and connecting with fellow participants.
Moreover, during the live sessions & residential program, you'll have the chance to interact directly with our experts, fostering valuable connections.
During the internship phase, you will have the opportunity to cultivate a network encompassing hospitals, oncologists, psychologists, and other relevant stakeholders.

We have a team comprising of faculties & contributors with expertise in various domains, including Oncology, Psycho-Oncology, Psychology, Psychiatry, Social workers, academicians, and even cancer survivors, along with other key stakeholders.

To engage with the online program, a stable internet connection, and devices like a laptop, tablet, or mobile are essential. We suggest using a laptop for a better learning experience. Once your admission is confirmed, you will receive login credentials. These credentials will grant you access to our Learning Management Software, enabling you to log in and avail yourself of the learning materials.

According to the ICMR report, one in every nine individuals in India is grappling with cancer, indicating that there are over 100 million people in the country who are affected by this disease. Moreover, for every single person living with cancer, there are at least four individuals, including family members and loved ones, who experience mental distress. Consequently, this amounts to a substantial demand, with an estimated 500 million people in India being mentally impacted by cancer collectively.
Even under the assumption that one psycho-oncologist is required for every 100,000 individuals, the need for a minimum of 50,000 psycho-oncologists becomes evident, given the demand from a population of 500 million.
In the role of a psycho-oncologist, employment opportunities can be found within cancer hospitals or medical facilities dedicated to cancer care.
Alternatively, you also have the option to establish your outpatient department (OPD) services as a Psycho-Oncologist.

Certainly. We are committed to providing comprehensive career guidance. It's important to note that we cannot guarantee placements, we will offer all necessary assistance to help you explore employment opportunities and self-employment ventures. Your success in your career journey is our priority, and we are here to provide the necessary resources and support to help you achieve your goals.

Indeed, our program is carefully crafted to cater to the needs of working professionals. The self-paced online learning takes into consideration your existing job commitments, family responsibilities, and personal obligations. With this program, you can seamlessly balance your work, family, and personal life while pursuing your educational goals.

You will not be eligible to receive the PGDPO certificate. Additionally, please be aware that you cannot request a refund of your admission fees.

This is a postgraduate specialized program, you will get a job on your previous degree & prior work experience. But this program will add to your knowledge & skills. This is a private program and this is from the finishing school category. Your degree, experience, knowledge, and skill will decide whether the recruiter hires you or not. All these factors will play a major role in getting a job.