MSc in Psychology: A Gateway to Understanding Human Behavior

Vaishali Pandey
November 6, 2024

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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

  • CUET PG
  • IGNOU
  • BITSAT
  • NEST

Average Course Fee

INR 21,000 - 13 lakhs

Average Salary

INR 1.1 - 8 LPA

Career Opportunities

  • Counselling psychologist
  • Psychotherapist
  • Educational Psychologist
  • Occupational Psychologist
  • Forensic Psychologist

Specialisations

  • Clinical Psychology
  • Criminal Psychology
  • Counselling Psychology
  • Child Psychology

Top Recruiters

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

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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. 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

  • Cognitive Psychology
  • Statistics in Behavioural Science
  • Research Methods in Psychology
  • NeuroPsychology

2nd

  • Cognitive Psychology II
  • Experimental Designs Theory
  • Psychometrics Theory
  • Neuro Psychology Theory

3rd

  • Psychology of Social Behaviour Theory
  • Applications of Psychology
  • Personality Theory
  • Systems and Skills
  • Synopsis

4th

  • Dynamics and Interpersonal Behaviour Theory
  • Applications of Psychology II
  • Self and Positive Psychology
  • Systems and Skills Intervention
  • Dissertation

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

Presidency University

INR 925

Banaras Hindu University

INR 6,720

NIMS University

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

Mount Carmel College

INR 75,000

Christ University

INR 94,500

Kristu Jayanti College

INR 97,000

Jain University

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

Annamalai University

INR 13,300

Madras University

INR 14,355

Dr BR Ambedkar Open University

INR 14,600

IMTS Institute

INR 15,700

Karnataka State Open University

INR 20,690

Jain University

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.

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.

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Particulars

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FAQ for MSc in Psychology

What is the eligibility for masters in psychology in India?

A bachelor's degree in Psychology or a related field is required. Some universities may also consider relevant work experience or GRE scores.

What is the average duration of an MSc in Psychology program?

The duration varies depending on the university and the chosen specialisation. However, most programs are typically completed within 1-2 years.

What are the career opportunities after completing an MSc in Psychology?

Graduates can pursue careers in counselling, therapy, research, academia, human resources, healthcare, and social services.

Can I specialise in a particular area of psychology during my MSc program?

Yes, most MSc in Psychology programs allow students to specialise in a specific area of interest, such as clinical psychology, counselling psychology, or industrial-organisational psychology.

What are some of the popular job titles for graduates with an MSc in Psychology?

Common job titles include psychologist, counsellor, therapist, researcher, human resources professional, and social worker.

Is it possible to find jobs in the private sector with an MSc in Psychology?

Yes, there are many opportunities in the private sector, especially in areas like human resources, marketing research, and healthcare.

Is it necessary to get licensed as a psychologist after completing an MS?

Licensing requirements vary by country and state. In many places, a licence is necessary to practise as a psychologist, especially in clinical or counselling settings.

What are the typical requirements for admission to an MSc in Psychology program?

Requirements may include a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, GRE scores (if applicable), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

How can I choose the right MSc in Psychology program for me?

Consider factors such as the program's reputation, specialisation options, faculty expertise, research opportunities, and location.

Can I apply to multiple MSc in Psychology programs simultaneously?

Yes, you can apply to multiple programs. However, make sure to carefully manage your application deadlines and requirements.

Are there any scholarships or financial aid options available for MSc in Psychology students?

Many universities offer scholarships, grants, and financial aid options for graduate students. Research funding opportunities may also be available for students pursuing research-based programs.

What advanced courses can I pursue after completing an MSc in Psychology?

After an MS, students can consider pursuing an M.Phil or PhD in Psychology for further specialisation and research opportunities.

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