MSc in Psychology: A Gateway to Understanding Human Behavior
An MSc in Psychology is an important degree that helps students study human behaviour and mental processes. This program improves understanding of the mind and provides skills to tackle different psychological issues. The courses cover various areas of psychology, such as cognitive and behavioural, preparing graduates for careers in counselling and therapy.
This guide will provide all the details about the MSc in Psychology program, including how long it lasts, who can apply, entrance exams, and career opportunities after graduation.
MSc in Psychology: Highlights
The following table shows the key highlights of the MSc in Psychology program, including its duration, eligibility, entrance exams, and career opportunities.
|
Parameters |
Details |
|
Full form |
Master of Science in Psychology |
|
MSc Psychology Duration |
2 years |
|
Total Number of colleges in India for MSc in Psychology |
|
|
Eligibility |
BSc Psychology, BA Psychology, or other relevant degree with 50%marks |
|
Entrance Exam |
|
|
Average Course Fee |
INR 21,000 - 13 lakhs |
|
Average Salary |
INR 1.1 - 8 LPA |
|
Career Opportunities |
|
|
Specialisations |
|
|
Top Recruiters |
|
What is an MSc in Psychology?
A Master of Science (MSc) in Psychology is a graduate degree that focuses on the scientific study of psychology (unlike the MA in Psychology, which is arts-based). It looks at how the human mind works and why people behave the way they do, exploring thoughts, feelings, and experiences. This field examines different approaches, including biological, psychodynamic, behavioural, cognitive, and humanistic perspectives.
The main goal of this MSc program is to help students understand normal and abnormal brain functions. It prepares them to treat people with emotional and mental health issues using a scientific and objective approach.
MSc in Psychology: Eligibility Criteria
Candidate must meet the following MSc Psychology eligibility criteria:
|
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
|
Bachelors Degree |
Candidate must have a bachelor's degree in BA or BSc in Psychology from a recognised college |
|
Minimum Marks |
Candidates must have a minimum of 50% or above marks in bachelor's degree. |
|
Other Accepted Degrees |
A candidate who has a bachelor's degree in BSW (Bachelor of Social Work), BA Sociology, BSc Home Science, BA Philosophy or B.ED is also eligible for MSc in Psychology. |
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MSc in Psychology: Entrance Exams
Candidates must take one of the following entrance exams to qualify for the MSc in Psychology course and secure admission to a top college.
|
Entrance Exam |
Full Form |
Exam Date |
|
CUET PG |
Common University Entrance Test for PG |
March 2025 |
|
IGNOU |
Indira Gandhi National Open University Exam |
January 2025 |
|
BITSAT |
Birla Institute of Technology and Science Admission Test |
May 2025 June 2025 |
|
NEST |
National Entrance Screening Test |
June 2025 |
MSc Psychology Subjects
The MSc in Psychology program provides a syllabus that covers various essential topics over four semesters, providing students with a strong understanding of psychological theories and practices.
Below are the semester-wise MSc psychology subjects:
|
Semester |
Subjects |
|
1st |
|
|
2nd |
|
|
3rd |
|
|
4th |
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MSc in Psychology: Specialisations
After completing an MSc in Psychology, candidates can choose from various specialised MSc Psychology courses based on their interests and career goals.
Below are some options:
|
Specialisation |
Details |
|
Clinical psychology |
Diagnose and treat mental, emotional, and behavioural disorders, offering therapeutic services in hospitals, clinics, or private practices. |
|
Counselling Psychology |
Help individuals with personal, social, and emotional issues, providing guidance and support in schools, community centres, or private settings. |
|
Experimental Psychology |
Involves scientific research to understand fundamental processes like memory, perception, learning, and cognition, often in academic or research institutions. |
|
Criminal Psychology/Criminology |
Applies psychological principles to criminal investigations and legal processes, studying the behaviour and motivations of criminals for law enforcement agencies. |
|
Child Psychology |
Specialises in understanding and addressing developmental, emotional, and behavioural issues in children and adolescents, working in schools, clinics, or hospitals. |
|
Business Psychology |
Combines psychology with business to improve workplace productivity, employee well-being, and organisational culture, often working as HR specialists or consultants. |
|
Evolutionary Psychology |
Examines human behaviour through the lens of evolution, studying how natural selection has shaped mental and psychological traits across generations. |
Top Colleges for MSc in Psychology in India
Here is the list of top colleges offering MSc Psychology courses along with their course fees to help you choose the best option for your academic journey:
|
College Name |
Course Fee |
|
INR 925 |
|
|
INR 6,720 |
|
|
INR 12,000 |
|
|
St. Wilfred's PG College |
INR 25,000 |
|
SDM College Ujire |
INR 31,260 |
|
Justice Basheer Ahmed Sayeed College for Women |
INR 64,000 |
|
INR 75,000 |
|
|
INR 94,500 |
|
|
INR 97,000 |
|
|
INR 1,05,500 |
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Top Colleges for MSc in Psychology Offering Distance Education
Candidates who cannot opt for a regular course, especially working professionals, can consider MSc Psychology distance education India, with several colleges offering flexible schedules and affordable fees.
Here's a list of some top options:
|
College Name |
Course Fee |
|
Nalanda Open University |
INR 8,800 |
|
Indira Gandhi National Open University |
INR 10,000 |
|
INR 13,300 |
|
|
Madras University |
INR 14,355 |
|
Dr BR Ambedkar Open University |
INR 14,600 |
|
INR 15,700 |
|
|
Karnataka State Open University |
INR 20,690 |
|
INR 23,000 |
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Difference Between MA and MSc in Psychology
Before considering an MSc in Psychology, candidates may also consider the MA 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 |
MSc in Psychology |
MA in Psychology |
|
Full Form |
Master of Science in Psychology |
Master of Arts in Psychology |
|
Focus Area |
Focuses on research and the science behind the brain, behaviour and psychological processes. |
Focuses on the study of liberal arts and theories of the subject. |
|
Eligibility |
Candidate from a science background |
Candidate from a humanities background. |
|
Average Course Fee |
INR 3,000 - 2 lakhs |
INR 5,000 - 1.5 lakh |
|
Average Salary |
INR 4 - 15 LPA |
INR 3 - 11 LPA |
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Tips for MSc in Psychology Entrance Exams Preparation
Here are some effective tips to help you prepare for the MSc Psychology entrance exams:
Know the Syllabus
Candidates must know the detailed syllabus of the entrance exam you plan to take.
Time Management
Create and follow a structured timetable to prepare for the exam effectively.
Mock Tests
Solve at least 10-12 timed mock tests to get accustomed to the exam pattern and time management.
Revision
Set aside ample time for revision to ensure you are fully prepared. Avoid cramming last-minute topics.
Exam Day Mindset
Stay calm and confident on exam day. Maintain a positive attitude as you enter the exam centre to boost your performance.
MSc in Psychology: Admission Process
Follow the below steps to gain admission to a good MSc in psychology college:
Registration and Application
Candidates must register and apply for entrance exams by uploading the required documents and paying the application fees.
Entrance-Based or Merit-Based Admission
Admission is typically based on performance in the entrance exam or merit in the qualifying degree.
Eligibility and Written Test (Research Aptitude Test - RAT)
Candidates meeting the minimum eligibility criteria are called for a Written Test (RAT), which is conducted by the respective institute's authority.
Special Exemptions for JRF, GATE, etc.
Candidates who have cleared exams like JRF and GATE can also attend the Written Test and Personal Interview.
Shortlisting of Candidates
Based on performance in the written exam and interview, a final list of shortlisted candidates is released by the admission authority.
How to Get Admission to a Good MSc Psychology College?
To improve your chances of getting into a top MSc Psychology college, consider the following:
Graduation Scores
Aim to score above 55% in your undergraduate degree to get a chance of admission to a recognised college.
Entrance Exam Performance
Since many colleges depend on written test results, it is crucial to perform well in the entrance exams conducted by the admission authority.
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MSc in Psychology: Jobs and Salary
Graduates can explore various career opportunities, offering different salary ranges based on specialisation and experience.
Below is a list of jobs along with their salaries:
|
Jobs |
Salary |
|
Psychologist |
INR 9 lakhs |
|
Educational Psychologist |
INR 3 lakhs |
|
Social Psychologist |
INR 6 lakhs |
|
Urban Planning Officer |
INR 6 lakhs |
|
Staff Recruiter |
INR 3 lakhs |
Courses After MSc in Psychology
After completing MSc in psychology, students choose to further their education and specialise in specific areas.
Below are some advanced courses that candidates may consider pursuing:
|
Course Name |
Course Duration |
Details |
Average Course Fee |
|
M Phil |
2 years |
Used to become licensed clinical psychologists. |
INR 2 - 5 lakh per annum |
|
PhD in Psychology |
3 years |
For research scholars who want to have a better insight into the behavioural and mental processes of human beings. |
Up to 6 lakhs |
Books For MSc in Psychology
To improve the knowledge and understanding of psychology, students and professionals can refer to a variety of recommended books. Here are some books:
|
Book Name |
Author Name |
|
Personality Disorders (Clinical Psychology: A Modular Course) |
Paul M. G. Emmelkamp and Jan Henk Kamphuis |
|
AP Psychology Crash Course |
Larry Krieger |
|
The Possible Human: A Course in Enhancing Your Physical, Mental & Creative Abilities |
Jean Houston |
|
IB Psychology Online Course Book |
John Crane and Jette Hannibal |
|
Psychology Course Book: The Only DP Resources Developed with the IB (Oxford Ib Diploma Programme) |
Crane |
|
Cambridge International AS and A Level Psychology Coursebook |
Julia Russell and Fiona Lintern |
An MSc in Psychology leads to rewarding career opportunities in mental health and counselling. Graduates gain essential skills to help individuals improve their well-being. With the right education and training, you can make a positive impact in this important field.
Why Propelld?
Propelld supports students in funding their education by offering simple loans. They provide flexible repayment plans, allowing students to concentrate on their studies without financial stress. If you’re looking to pursue a degree in psychology or any other field, Propelld makes it more affordable for you.
The following are the primary benefits of Propelld.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Max Loan Amount | 50 Lakhs |
| Collateral | Not Required |
| Moratorium | Available |
| Processing Time | 10 Times Faster than Banks |
| Disbursal Time | 7 Days |
| Approval Rate | Higher than Other Banks |
| Special USP | Marks Based Approval |
| % Financed | 100% of Fees |
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