MA in Psychology: Eligibility, Specialisation and Career Opportunities

Vaishali Pandey
November 5, 2024

Apply Education Loan

Up to Rs. 50 Lakhs for 10 Years.
10X Faster.

Thanks! We will reach out to you shortly.
Apply Now

Apply Education Loan

Up to Rs. 50 Lakhs for 10 Years.
10X Faster.

Thanks! We will reach out to you shortly.
Apply Now

MA in Psychology: Eligibility, Specialisation and Career Opportunities

An MA in Psychology is a great choice for people interested in how the mind works and want to help others improve their mental health. This program teaches critical psychological concepts and prepares graduates for careers that positively impact individuals and communities. 

This article will provide everything you need about the MA in Psychology, From its eligibility and colleges to career paths. 

MA in Psychology: Highlights

Here are the details about the MA in Psychology program:

Parameters

Details

MA Psychology Full Form

Master of Arts in Psychology

Duration

2 years

Total Number of MA in Psychology Colleges in India

512

Eligibility

Graduation with 45% or above marks.

Entrance Exam

CUET

CUET PG

YCMOU

Average MA Psychology Fees

INR 21,000 - 13 lakhs

Average Salary

INR 1.1 - 8 LPA

Career Opportunities

  • Clinical Psychologists
  • Consultants
  • Psychotherapists
  • Therapists
  • Practitioners
  • Counsellors

Top Recruiters

  • Amity University
  • T & A Solutions
  • Fortis Healthcare
  • Shiv Nadar University
  • Roots and Routes Counselling & Psychotherapy Centre
  • ACRO
  • Pearson

Fast-Tracked Education Loans with Propelld – Funding your Future in Just 7 Days!

What is an MA in Psychology?

An MA in Psychology is a two-year program designed to prepare students for a career in psychology. The course includes studies in research methods, psychological theories, and statistics. The program focuses on understanding human behaviour, including topics like psychopathology, abnormal behaviour, health psychology, positive psychology, and organisational behaviour.

Top Private Colleges for MA in Psychology

The following is the list of top private colleges offering an M.A. in Psychology, along with their course fees:

Private College Name

Course Fee

Fergusson College, Pune

INR 65,885

Symbiosis College of Arts and Commerce, Pune

INR 1.65 lakh

MCM DAV College for Women, Chandigarh

INR 43,470

DAV College, Chandigarh

INR 42,800

St Xaviers College, Mumbai

INR 1,84 lakh

Galgotias University

INR 92,000

St Xavier's College, Ahmedabad

INR 76,000

Amity University

INR 3.44 - 7.55 lakhs

Chandigarh University

INR 1.44 - 2.54 lakhs

Lovely Professional University

INR 2 lakhs

If you are considering an MA in Psychology course and need financial support, check out our guide on education loan for MA: Interest rates, eligibility and how to apply.

Get Education Loan for Any College in India. 100% Fees Financed- Propelld Education Loan

Top Government Colleges for MA in Psychology

Here are the top government colleges for an MA in Psychology, along with their course fees and entrance exams:

Government College Name

Course Fee

Entrance Exam

Kishinchand Chellaram College

INR 78,000

-

Andhra University

INR 20,000

-

Tata Institute of Social Sciences

INR 68,000

TISSNET

CUET PG

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Delhi

INR 1.53 lakh

CUET PG

K J Somaiya College of Arts and Commerce

INR 11,000

-

Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government Arts and Commerce College, Indore

INR 3,142

-

Banaras Hindu University

INR 5,160

CUET PG

BHU PET

Jamia Millia Islamia

INR 19,200

JMI

Delhi University

INR 480

CUET PG

Dronacharya Government College, Gurgaon

INR 7,200

-

Daulat Ram College

INR 40,458

CUET PG

Government Autonomous College, Rourkela

INR 11,812

-

Indraprastha College for Women

INR 432

CUET PG

If you want to pursue your studies through a scholarship, discover prize money scholarship 2024 - eligibility and process. Explore the details to find out how you can apply.

Get upto 100% Education Fees Financed with Propelld. Simplified Processing Dedicated Support.

MA in Psychology Distance Education

Choosing an MA in Psychology through distance education can be a flexible and convenient option for candidates working and looking to further their education.  

Here are some colleges that offer this program along with their course fees:

College Name 

Course Fee

Indira Gandhi National Open University

INR 20,000

Andhra University

INR 6,200 - 7000

Institute of Open and Distance Education

INR 19,200

Karnataka State Open University

INR 51,900

If your college is in Karnataka, find out how to get an education loan in Karnataka: Eligibility Interest rates and Banks to support your educational journey.

‍‍Get your Loan Disbursed 10 times Faster than Banks. Click to Know How!

Benefits of Doing an MA in Psychology

Here are some key benefits of choosing this path:

1. Understanding Human Behaviour

Gain deep insights into human behaviour, personality development, and how the brain works.

2. More Career Opportunities

Psychology is a growing field with diverse job options in healthcare, education, corporate, and research sectors.

3. Comprehensive Learning

Study topics ranging from mental processes to personality and brain development, building a strong foundation in psychology.

4. Hands-On Experience with Different Patients

Work in varied settings, including hospitals and schools, helping people manage mental and emotional challenges.

5. Flexible Study Options

The program can be pursued either online or offline, making it accessible and convenient.

6. Exposure to Various Psychological Perspectives

Explore different approaches, such as biological, cognitive, and social psychology, to understand the mind from multiple angles.

Difference Between an MSc and an MA in Psychology

Before considering an MA in Psychology, candidates may also consider the MSc in Psychology course. Both programs have different focus areas, eligibility requirements, career prospects, and salary ranges. 

Here is a comparison between the two to help you make an informed decision:

Parameters

MA in Psychology

MSc in Psychology

Full Form

Master of Arts in Psychology

Master of Science in Psychology

Focus Area

Focuses on the study of liberal arts and theories of the subject.

Focuses on research and the science behind the brain, behaviour and psychological processes.

Eligibility

Candidate from a humanities background.

Candidate from a science background

Average Course Fee

INR 5,000 - 1.5 lakh

INR 3,000 - 2 lakhs

Average Salary

INR 3 - 11 LPA

INR 4 - 15 LP

If you are unsure whether to pursue an MS or MD, explore our guide on MS vs MD: Best Colleges, Future Career Prospects & Salary.

MA in Psychology: Eligibility Criteria

Candidates should meet the MA Psychology eligibility criteria requirements:

1. Educational Background: 

A Bachelor’s degree in Psychology or a BA with Psychology as a main subject.

2. Minimum Marks: 

At least 50% of the undergraduate degree.

3. Final-Year Students: 

Candidates currently completing their bachelor's degree are also eligible to apply.

4. Entrance Exam & Interview: 

Most programs require an entrance exam and personal interview for admission.

MA in Psychology: Entrance Exams

To gain admission into the MA in Psychology program, candidates need to clear specific entrance exams. Below is a list of the entrance exams, along with their exam dates:

Entrance Exam

Full Form

Exam Date

CUET PG

Central Universities Entrance Test (Postgraduate)

March 2025

IGNOU

Indira Gandhi National Open University

January 2025

AAT

Architecture Aptitude Test

To be announced

PUMDET

Presidency University Master Degree Entrance Test

July 2025

YCMOU

Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University

Mat 2025

MA in Psychology: Specialisation

An MA in Psychology offers various specialisations, allowing students to focus on specific areas of interest. 

Here are some popular Specialised MA Psychology courses:

Specialisation

Details

Clinical Psychology

Focuses on diagnosing and treating mental, emotional, and behavioural disorders. Clinical psychologists work with patients to address severe psychological issues, often in clinical or hospital settings.

Counselling Psychology

Centres on helping individuals with emotional, social, and developmental concerns. Counselling psychologists support clients in coping with everyday challenges and improving overall mental health.

Educational Psychology

Explores psychological aspects of learning and development, particularly in school and educational settings. Educational psychologists often work with educators to optimise learning environments.

Developmental Psychology

Developmental psychology studies psychological growth throughout the human lifespan, including infancy, adolescence, and old age. They work in research or practical settings focused on age-specific behavioural changes.

Social Psychology

Social psychology examines how social interactions and group dynamics influence individuals' thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. They work in areas such as marketing, research, or community relations.

Health Psychology

Investigates how biological, psychological, and social factors influence health and illness. Health psychologists collaborate with medical professionals to promote wellness and prevent disease through behavioural change.

MA in Psychology: Admission Process

Below are the steps that candidates need to follow to gain admission:

1. Registration: 

Candidates need to register at the university or college they want to join and fill out the application form with the required documents.

2. Entrance Exam: 

After registering, candidates must take the university and college entrance exam. 

3. Results

Once the entrance exam results are out, qualified candidates will need to participate in the admission process's next steps.

4. Counselling: 

After the results are announced, candidates should register for counselling. Once the counselling process is finished, final admissions will occur.

The admission process may be based on merit or entrance exam scores. 

Factors

Merit-Based

Entrance Exam Based

Details

Admission is based on the merit list of the respective college

Candidates must take an entrance exam (CUET) and score the cut-off marks.

Colleges 

  • Daulat Ram College
  • Indraprastha College for Women
  • Zakir Husain College

MA in Psychology: Syllabus

The MA in Psychology program is divided into four semesters, each covering important topics that help students better understand psychology.  

Below is what you will learn in each semester:

Semester

Syllabus

1st

  • Applied Psychometry
  • Cognitive Process
  • Neuropsychology
  • Emotions in Everyday Life
  • Paradigms of Psychology

2nd

  • Statistics and Experimental Design
  • Social Psychology
  • Basic Organisational Processes
  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
  • Applied Developmental Psychology

3rd

  • Indian Psychology and its Applications
  • Multivariate Technique
  • Group Process in Organisations
  • Training and Development
  • Positive Psychology
  • Self In Psychoanalytic Thought
  • Listening and Communicating
  • Development of Theories of Mind

4th

  • Appreciating Diversity
  • Organisational Development and Change
  • Human Resource Practices
  • Psychology of Advertising
  • Psychology at the Margins
  • Gender: A Psycho-Social Understanding
  • Development of Social PsychologyCognitive Development during Infancy and Early Childhood

Scope of MA in Psychology in India

Completing an MA in Psychology leads to many job opportunities in different areas. Here are some careers you can choose, where you might work, and the expected salaries:

Profession

Recruiters

Salary

Mental Health Counsellor

Hospitals

INR 37,200

Psychologist

Hospitals, Schools, Prisons, Universities

INR 47,500

Supervising Counsellor

Counselling firms, Private Practitioners

INR 37,600

Youth Development Manager

Schools, Sports Clubs

INR 38,800

Youth Care Specialist

Adoption Centres, Health Department of the Government, School

INR 28,500

Adoption Services Director

Adoption Centres

INR 37,600

Alcohol and Drug Counselor

Rehabs, Government Agencies, NGOs

INR 33,300

MA in Psychology: Jobs and Salary

Here is a list of job roles available to graduates and their expected salary after MA Psychology in India:

Jobs

Salary

Clinical Psychologist

INR 8 lakhs

Psychotherapists

INR 4 lakhs

Consultant

INR 7 lakhs

Practitioner

INR 2.8 lakhs

Therapist

INR 3 lakhs

Social Worker

INR 2 lakhs

Psychiatrist

INR 1.1 lakh

Lecturer

INR 4.70 lakhs

Neuropsychologist

INR 5 lakhs

Courses After MA in Psychology

If you're considering further education after your MA in Psychology, here are some available courses that candidates can choose from: 

Course Name

Duration

Average Course Fee

Average Salary

M.Phill in Psychology

2 years

INR 1,100 - 1 lakh

INR 4-5 LPA

PhD in Psychology

3 years

INR 20,000 - 2 lakhs

INR 2 - 6 LPA

If you plan to pursue a PhD after your MA in Psychology, apply for an education loan for PhD: Banks, Eligibility, and Collateral to ease your financial burden and focus on your studies without worrying about fees.

Skills Required for MA in Psychology

Certain skills are essential for a successful career in psychology, as well as for doing well in an M.A. in psychology and improving your studies.

Here are the main skills needed for a successful career in MA in Psychology:

Required Skills

Numerical Ability

Science Skills

Work Ethics

Emotional Stability

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Research Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

An MA in Psychology helps you understand how people think and act. It prepares you for exciting careers, working as a counsellor, therapist, or in another role related to mental health. With this degree, you can explore various paths and make a positive impact on people's lives.

Why Propelld?

Propelld offers education financing solutions through loans for students to pursue higher education. It provides flexible repayment options and aims to help students afford their education without the burden of upfront costs.

The following are the primary benefits of Propelld.

Feature Details
Max Loan Amount50 Lacs
CollateralNot Required
MoratoriumAvailable
Processing Time10 Times Faster than Banks
Disbursal Time7 Days
Approval RateHigher than Banks
Special USPMarks Based Approval
% Financed100% of Fees

Take the next step in your academic journey - Apply for an education loan today!

Education Loan for Medical Colleges

MBBS | BDS | BAMS | Bsc Nusring |Or Pay Fees for Any Medical Course in India - Up to. Rs. 50 Lacs

Fund your College Fees with Education Loan

Loan up to Rs. 50 Lakhs for 10 Years

Thanks! We will reach out to you shortly.
Apply Now

No Collateral Low-Interest Education Loan

Available in all top Coaching Institutes
Get Loan

FAQ for MA in Psychology

What is the average MA psychology fees?

The average fees for an MA in Psychology are approximately INR 40,000

What is the average salary after earning an MA in psychology in India?

After completing an MA in Psychology, the average salary in India ranges from INR 2.5 to 10 LPA, depending on experience and specialisation.

What is MA psychology full form?

The full form of MA in Psychology is Master of Arts in Psychology.

What are the MA Psychology requirements?

The masters in psychology requirements are that candidates should have a BA in Psychology degree with a minimum of 50% marks.

Which is the best specialisation in Psychology?

Some of the best specialisations in Psychology include:

  • Industrial and Organisational Psychology
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Counselling Psychology
  • Forensic Psychology

Which branch of psychology is in the most demand?

Substance Abuse Counselling is one of the most in-demand branches of Psychology.

What is the largest specialisation in Psychology?

The largest specialisation within the field is Clinical Psychology.

Who is known as the father of Psychology?

Wilhelm Wundt is recognised as the father of Psychology for establishing it as a scientific discipline.

What are the seven types of Psychology?

The seven main types of Psychology include:

  1. Clinical Psychology
  2. Counselling Psychology
  3. Forensic Psychology
  4. Industrial-Organisational Psychology
  5. Neuropsychology
  6. School Psychology
  7. Social Psychology

What are the top colleges offering an MA in Psychology course?

Some of the top colleges that offer an MA in Psychology are:

  • Fergusson College
  • Delhi College of Arts and Commerce
  • Loyola College
  • Sri Ram College of Commerce

Are government colleges better for an MA in Psychology?

Yes, government colleges are often considered better for an MA in Psychology due to their reputation for high academic excellence and competitive tuition rates.

Can I pursue an MA in Psychology after completing a B.Com?

Yes, you can pursue an MA in Psychology after completing a B.Com, provided you meet the necessary eligibility criteria set by the respective college or university.

Join Group for JEE & NEET Updates