A Master’s in Psychology in India is a 2-year postgraduate program (MA/MSc/Applied) that delves into human behavior, mental processes, research methods, and applied skills like counseling, assessment, and therapy. It prepares graduates for rewarding careers in clinical practice, counseling, HR, research, academia, or organizational roles, with growing demand amid rising mental health awareness.
Psychology as well as non-psychology students can pursue this course form premier institutions like Delhi University, TISS Mumbai, Christ University, NIMHANS, BHU, and JNU. From affordable options to premium colleges, a wide range of colleges offer Masters in Psychology in India. Read this comprehensive guide to find top colleges, their fees, course syllabus, top job roles with salaries and more.
A Masters in Psychology is a 2-year postgraduate degree, offered as either a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Science (MSc). The MA in Psychology focuses on humanities and theoretical aspects, while the MSc in Psychology emphasizes scientific and research-oriented approaches. Specializations include Clinical Psychology (diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders), Counseling Psychology (guidance and support), Industrial-Organizational Psychology (improving workplace productivity), and Educational Psychology (focusing on how people learn).
Aspect
Details
Duration
2 years (4 semesters)
Eligibility
Bachelor’s degree (50–55% marks; Psychology preferred, some open to non-Psychology grads)
Entrance Exams
CUET-PG (main for central unis), university-specific (e.g., TISS, NIMHANS)
Fees Range
₹400–₹50,000 total (government) to ₹2–6+ lakhs (private)
Top Colleges
DU, JNU, BHU, TISS, Christ University, NIMHANS
Specializations
Clinical, Counselling, Applied, Organizational, Health
Comparing Different Options for Masters in Psychology
The table below highlights key differences between MA Psychology, MSc Psychology, and Applied Psychology, including their focus areas, career paths, and the importance of RCI accreditation for clinical practice.
Aspect
MA Psychology
MSc Psychology
Applied Psychology (MA/MSc)
Primary Focus
Humanities-oriented; emphasizes theory, liberal arts, and conceptual understanding of human behavior
Science-oriented; emphasizes research methods, scientific analysis, experimentation, and empirical approaches
Practical application of psychological principles to real-world problems; bridges theory and practice
Typical Course Emphasis
Social psychology, developmental psychology, personality theories, counseling basics
Cognitive psychology, biopsychology/neuropsychology, experimental psychology, advanced statistics & research
Applied and skill-based; includes hands-on training in settings like counseling, organizations, or clinics
RCI Registration/Licensure for Clinical Practice
Not typically sufficient alone for full clinical practice (e.g., as a licensed Clinical Psychologist); often requires additional RCI-approved programs like M.Phil (phasing out) or new RCI-regulated MA Clinical Psychology
Similar to MA; not automatically sufficient for RCI clinical licensure without further specialized training
Often more aligned with applied/clinical paths, but RCI approval depends on the specific program/specialization; crucial for clinical roles—standard MA/MSc Applied Psychology may still need extra RCI steps
Career Paths
Teaching, research, general counseling, HR roles, social work, further academia (PhD)
Research, academia, data analysis in psychology, consulting, scientific roles, PhD pathways
Clinical, Counseling, Industrial-Organizational, Educational, Forensic, etc.
Same as left, but often with stronger research slant
Clinical, Counseling, Organizational, Health, Sports, etc.
Salary Range (Entry-Level)
₹3–15 LPA (varies by role, experience, location, and sector; higher in clinical/organizational with experience/licensure)
Similar range; potentially higher in research/academia/consulting
Similar range; often competitive in applied fields like clinical or corporate roles
Eligibility Criteria & Entrance Exams
To be eligible for Masters in Psychology in India, candidates typically need a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology or another discipline with at least 50% marks. Eligibility may also consider work experience, research experience, or a strong academic record. Some common Entrance exams include CUET-PG, TISSNET, and JNU entrance. Here is an overview of popular entrance exams for admission into Masters in Psychology:
Entrance Exam
Key Colleges (Examples)
CUET-PG (Psychology – HUQP20)
Delhi University (DU), Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), University of Hyderabad, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University Delhi (AUD), Pondicherry University, Central University of Tamil Nadu, National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), many other central/state/deemed universities (total ~185 participating)
NIMHANS Entrance Exam
National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru (for MSc/MA in Clinical Psychology and related specialized programs)
University-Specific Entrances (e.g., Jamia Millia Islamia Entrance, others like NFAT for NFSU where applicable, or state-level like CPGET)
Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), some state universities (e.g., in Andhra/Telangana), private/deemed institutions not fully under CUET-PG (e.g., select programs at Christ University, Amity, or others with their own tests/merit)
Masters in Psychology for Non-Psychology Students
Several universities in India allow graduates from any discipline (non-Psychology backgrounds) to pursue MA/MSc Psychology, often through entrance exams like CUET-PG or university-specific tests. This broadens access to the field for career switchers.
College / University
Program Offered
IGNOU
MA Psychology (distance mode)
Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
MA / MSc Psychology
Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI)
MA Applied Psychology
Central University of Haryana
MA Psychology
Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)
MA Clinical & Behavioural Psychology
Central University of Tamil Nadu
MSc Applied Psychology
Central University of Punjab
MA Psychology
Amity University (select campuses)
MA Applied / Clinical Psychology
Lovely Professional University (LPU)
MA Psychology (some tracks)
Admission Process for Masters in Psychology
Admission process for Masters program in Psychology varied from one institution to another. Some common steps include:
Check Eligibility — Ensure you have a Bachelor’s degree (preferably in Psychology) with 50–55% marks and meet other requirements.
Register for Entrance Exam — Apply online via official websites of respective entrance exams.
Appear in the Exam — Take the CUET-PG test (usually Feb–Mar); for specialized programs like NIMHANS MSc Clinical Psychology, appear in their separate entrance (often May–June).
Check Results & Merit Lists — NTA releases CUET-PG scores (Apr–May) and universities publish merit lists or counseling schedules based on these scores.
Apply to Universities — Use CUET scores to apply/register on university portals (e.g., TISS, DU counseling). Some institutions may require additional documents or interviews for specific programs.
Counseling & Seat Allotment — Participate in online/offline counseling rounds, pay fees and verify documents to confirm admission.
Special Cases — For RCI-approved clinical programs, follow institution-specific steps (e.g., NIMHANS entrance + verification). Further, private universities may use merit or their own tests.
Top Colleges for Masters in Psychology in India
The following table lists top psychology colleges in India, along with their fees, specializations, placements, and RCI accreditation status. Find the best government and private college options below:
Yes (RCI-regulated at select campuses, e.g., Haryana)
Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI)
₹20,000–₹40,000
General, Applied Psychology
No (general programs)
Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
₹6,000–₹26,000
General, Applied Psychology
No (general MA)
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)
₹400–₹700
General, Applied Psychology
No (general MA)
NIMHANS Bengaluru
₹20,000–₹25,000
Clinical Psychology (MSc/equivalent)
Yes (highly regarded for clinical)
Lovely Professional University (LPU)
₹3.2–₹6.4 lakhs
Clinical Psychology, Applied Psychology
Yes (RCI-approved MA Clinical Psychology)
Private Colleges (general avg for RCI-approved clinical)
₹2–₹6+ lakhs
Applied/Clinical Psychology
Yes (only if specific program RCI-approved)
Distance Learning (e.g., IGNOU)
₹20,000–₹21,000
General MA Psychology
No (distance not RCI-approved)
Syllabus for Masters in Psychology
Syllabus for Masters in Psychology in India provides a comprehensive understanding of psychological principles, theories, and practices over two years, divided into four semesters.
The first semester covers Advanced General Psychology, Research Methods, and Statistics. The second semester covers Psychopathology, Assessment, and Counseling Theories. In the third and fourth semesters, students choose a specialization, participate in a practicum, and work on a dissertation. Practical experience constitutes 40% of the coursework, equipping students with the knowledge and skills for careers in research, clinical practice, or industry.
The table below outlines the semester-wise syllabus, including core subjects, specializations, and practical components.
Semester
Typical Core/Focus Areas
Semester 1
Foundations/Advanced General Psychology – Cognitive Psychology – Research Methodology & Statistics – Biological/Physiological Bases – Developmental Psychology
Semester 2
Psychopathology/Abnormal Psychology – Social Psychology – Psychological Assessment/Testing – Counselling Theories (intro) – Advanced Cognitive or Biological
Advanced/Applied Topics (e.g., Ethics, Multicultural/Indian Perspectives) – Electives in chosen area
Masters in Psychology Fees
Fees for a Masters in Psychology degree in India vary significantly by institution and program. Central universities like Delhi University (DU), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and Banaras Hindu University (BHU) offer relatively affordable options, while private institutions like Christ University and Amity University charge significantly more. IGNOU, on the other hand, offers distance learning options at affordable charges.
The list below compares fees for different types of institutions offering masters programs in psychology in India.
Delhi University (DU): ₹16,000–₹20,000 total
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU): ₹400–₹700 total
Banaras Hindu University (BHU): ₹6,000–₹26,000 total
Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS): ₹1.59–₹1.75 lakhs total
NIMHANS: ₹20,000–₹25,000 total
Christ University: ₹2–₹5 lakhs+ total
Amity University: ₹1.5–₹6.4 lakhs total
IGNOU (distance): ₹20,000–₹21,000 total
Career After Masters in Psychology
Masters in Psychology course in India opens diverse and rewarding career paths. Clinical Psychologists can work in hospitals, private clinics, or private practice, earning ₹5-15 lakhs per annum. Counselors can work in schools, corporations, or non-profits, earning ₹4-10 lakhs per year. Industrial/Organizational Psychologists are in demand in the corporate sector, earning ₹6-15 lakhs per annum. Those interested in academia can pursue teaching positions after clearing the NET exam, earning ₹5-12 lakhs per year. Private practice session fees range from ₹500-3000.
Here is a comprehensive overview of these career paths, including job descriptions, salary ranges, and growth prospects.
Clinical Roles
Counseling Roles
I/O Roles
Academia Roles
Salary
Clinical Psychologist in Hospital
School Counselor
HR Manager in Corporate
Professor in University
Rs 6-10 LPA average
Private Practice Clinical Psychologist
Counselor in NGO
Organizational Development Consultant
Researcher in Institute
Rs 8-15 LPA average
Clinical Psychologist in Research Institute
Counselor in Private Clinic
Talent Acquisition Specialist
Lecturer in College
Rs 5-12 LPA average
Mental Health Specialist in Hospital
Career Counselor
Training and Development Manager
Academic Advisor
Rs 7-14 LPA average
Child Psychologist
Marriage Counselor
HR Generalist
Teacher in School
Rs 4-10 LPA average
Neuropsychologist
Substance Abuse Counselor
Organizational Psychologist
Research Assistant
Rs 6-12 LPA average
Clinical Neuropsychologist
Gerontological Counselor
Management Consultant
Professor and Head of Department
Rs 10-20 LPA average
Counseling Psychologist
Mental Health Counselor
Industrial Psychologist
Dean of Faculty
Rs 8-18 LPA average
Forensic Psychologist
Rehabilitation Counselor
Employee Engagement Specialist
Vice Chancellor
Rs 12-25 LPA average
Masters in Psychology Salary Range
Salaries for holders of Masters in Psychology degree vary based on specialization, job role, and industry. Take a look at compensation levels of different roles:
Entry-Level Positions: Graduates may start with salaries ranging from ₹3 LPA to ₹6 LPA in roles like counselors or research assistants.
Clinical Psychologist (with license): With RCI license and experience, salaries can range from ₹5 LPA to ₹15 LPA or more.
School Psychologist: The average salary for a school psychologist is around ₹4 LPA to ₹8 LPA.
Organizational Psychologist: Salaries in organizational psychology can vary widely, with entry-level positions around ₹4 LPA and experienced professionals earning ₹10 LPA or more.
Counselor: Depending on the setting (private practice, NGO, etc.), counselors can earn between ₹3.5 LPA and ₹7 LPA.
Research Positions: Research roles in universities or research institutions may offer salaries between ₹3 LPA and ₹8 LPA, depending on experience and funding.
Professor/Lecturer: Starting salaries for assistant professors can range from ₹6 LPA to ₹10 LPA, depending on the institution.
Scope for MPhil Clinical & RCI Accreditation
An MPhil in Clinical Psychology is required for clinical practice in India and for registration with the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI). This 2-year postgraduate degree is offered by institutions like the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS) and other RCI-approved colleges. The program focuses on advanced training in clinical psychology, including theoretical foundations, research methods, and practical skills. Here is a quick overview:
MPhil Clinical Psychology: A specialized research degree often required for becoming a licensed Clinical Psychologist in India.
RCI Accreditation: Essential for MPhil Clinical Psychology programs to ensure graduates are eligible for licensure.
Course Focus: In-depth training in psychopathology, psychological assessment, and therapeutic interventions.
Top Institutions: NIMHANS, and other RCI-approved institutions offer MPhil Clinical Psychology programs.
Career Outcome: Enables registration with the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) as a Clinical Psychologist.
Duration: Typically a 2-year program involving coursework, research, and clinical training.
Admission Criteria: Usually requires a Master’s degree in Psychology and a competitive entrance exam/interview.
Top Colleges for MPhil in Psychology in India
College / Institute Name
Approx. Fees (Total for 2 Years)
National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru
₹25,000–₹39,000
Central Institute of Psychiatry (CIP), Ranchi
No tuition fee, only minimal security/admin charges from ₹3,000–₹5,000
Institute of Human Behaviour & Allied Sciences (IHBAS), Delhi
₹5,000–₹20,000
Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi Regional Institute of Mental Health (LGBRIMH), Tezpur
₹30,000–₹50,000
Government Medical College & Hospital (GMCH), Chandigarh
₹50,000–₹1 lakh
National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), Gandhinagar/Delhi
₹1–1.5 lakhs
JSS Medical College, Mysuru
₹1–2 lakhs
SGT University, Gurgaon
₹4–5 lakhs
Amity University (select campuses)
₹4–7 lakhs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the duration of a Masters in Psychology program in India?
The duration of a Masters in Psychology program in India is 2 years for MA Psychology, MSc Psychology, and Applied Psychology.
Q2. What are the fees for a Masters in Psychology program at Central Universities in India?
Fees for Master’s in Psychology at Central Universities in India (e.g., DU, JNU, BHU) typically range from ₹400 to ₹50,000 total for the 2-year program.
Q3. What are the career paths available after completing a Masters in Psychology in India?
After completing a Masters in Psychology in India, career paths include Clinical Psychologist, Counseling Psychologist, Industrial/Organizational Psychologist, Research Psychologist, Professor/Lecturer, and School Psychologist, with salary ranges varying from 3-15 LPA.
Q4. Which colleges in India offer RCI-approved MPhil Clinical programs?
Colleges in India that offer RCI-approved MPhil Clinical programs include NIMHANS Bengaluru, CIP Ranchi, IHBAS Delhi, LGBRIMH Tezpur, NFSU Gandhinagar, GMCH Chandigarh, and select private ones like Amity and SGT University.
Q5. Which colleges are best for Masters in Psychology in Delhi?
Top colleges in Delhi for Master’s in Psychology include Delhi University (DU) departments/colleges, Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), Ambedkar University Delhi (AUD), and IGNOU (distance). DU and JMI offer strong general/applied programs with good research focus.
Q6. Who is eligible for a masters in psychology?
Candidates need a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with 50–55% marks from a recognized university. Final-year students can apply provisionally for this course. Some institutions like BHU, JMI and AMU also accept non-Psychology graduates in their masters program.
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