MSc Psychology: Eligibility, Colleges, Syllabus, IGNOU, Jobs 2023

Sounak Banerjee's profile photo

Sounak Banerjee

Associate Content Manager

MSc Psychology is a 2 year postgraduate course that focuses on the practical application of research methods related to human behaviour. It provides learning about different perspectives of human psychology through theoretical and research based activities. The course has considerable field knowledge and is based on actual cases. 

The basic eligibility for pursuing admission to MSc Psychology program, candidates must hold a bachelor degree in any Psychology courses from a recognized university with an aggregate of at least 50% marks.

MSc Psychology Distance Education is available in colleges like IGNOU, IMTS Institute, Jain University etc. The average fee is INR 15,000 to 16,000. 

See Also: MSc Admission Process  

However, students holding any other degree such as Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), BA Sociology, B.Sc. Home Science, B.A. Philosophy or B.Ed. with Psychology Papers can also apply for MSc Psychology courses. 

Collegedunia is bringing Career Carnival on May 6 and 7 at Pragati Maidan with more than 75 colleges participating in it. Register Now For Free Entry

Admission to the course in top colleges is offered after cracking the entrances, followed by a round of personal interview. Some of the top MSc Psychology entrances are DUET, JNUEE, IPU CET , OUCET, BITSAT, BHU PET, etc

MSc Psychology Course Details

Course Level Postgraduate Degree Program
Full Form Master of Science in Psychology
Duration 2 Year
Exam Type Semester
Course fees INR 3,000 to 2 Lakhs
Starting Salary INR 3,00,000 to INR 20,00,000
Job Industries Colleges, Universities, Development Laboratories etc.
Job Profiles Psychologist, Educational Psychologist, Urban Planning Officer etc.

In this field, students develop their own theories and test them by performing research. A psychologist usually studies both normal and abnormal functioning and treats individuals having mental and emotional disorders.

MSc Psychology Admission Process

After the candidates are done registering or applying for the entrances by uploading documents and payment of fees, admission to the program is done based on the candidate's performance in the entrance test or on Merit basis. 

Depending on the fulfillment of the minimum eligibility criteria, candidates will be called for a Written Test (Research Aptitude Test – RAT) which will be conducted by the institute authority.

Students who have cleared JRF, GATE and other relevant examinations are also expected to attend the written examination and Personal Interview. 

Based on the candidate's performance in the written examination and interview, the admission authority will release the list of shortlisted candidates for all the courses.

Read More

MSc Psychology Eligibility

Following are some of the MSc Psychology eligibility criteria to be fulfilled:

  • The minimum MSc Psychology eligibility is that the candidate must hold a BA or B.Sc Psychology degree from a recognized university with an aggregate of at least 50% marks. 
  • Students holding any other degree such as Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), BA Sociology, B.Sc. Home Science, B.A. Philosophy or B.Ed. with Psychology Papers.

Top MSc Psychology Entrance Exams

Some of the most common entrance tests conducted for admission to MSc Psychology program are given below:

Entrance Exams Registration Exam Dates
CUET PG April 2023 June 1 – 10, 2023
BITSAT February 2023 June 2023
NEST February 2023 June 2023
IIT JAM September 07 – October 11, 2023 February 12, 2023
DUET April 2023 July 2023
TISS NET December 14 – January 15, 2023 January 28 – February 28, 2023

How to Get Admission to a Good MSc Psychology College?

Following are some of the points to be kept in mind while taking admission to a good MSc Psychology college:

  • It is advisable for the students to score more than 55% in graduation to get a good college for studying MSc Psychology.
  • Since most colleges offer admission to MSc Psychology courses on the basis of the candidate's performance in the written test, it is very important to get a good score in the test conducted by the admission authority.

Below are some of the points to keep in mind for cracking MSc Psychology entrances:

  • It is very important for candidates to know the detailed syllabus of the entrance test that one is planning to appear for. So, just go through the detailed syllabus and cover the same.
  • You can prepare well for the entrance test if you follow a time table and prepare thoroughly.
  • Try to give a large number of time-based tests as this will help you in preparing for the exam day.
  • Try to solve at least 10-12 timed Mock Tests after completing your preparation.
  • Give time for revision as well, and don’t leave anything for the last day of the exam. Be calm and confident, and don’t think anything negative before entering the exam center

It is also equally important to be mentally and physically prepared for further rounds after the entrance exam i.e. counselling and interview.

Keep a track of all the important dates of the written exam so that you can register for the exam well in time.

Important Links

MSc Psychology Syllabus

The detailed semester-wise MSc Psychology syllabus is provided in the table given below:

Semester I Semester II
Cognitive Psychology Cognitive Psychology II
Statistics in Behavioural Science Experimental Designs Theory
Research methods in Psychology Psychometrics Theory
NeuroPsychology Neuro Psychology Theory
Practical Practical
Seminar Seminar
Semester III Semester IV
Psychology of Social Behaviour Theory Dynamics and Interpersonal Behaviour Theory
Applications of Psychology Applications of Psychology II
Personality Theory Self and Positive Psychology
Systems and Skills Systems and Skills Intervention
Synopsis Dissertation

MSc Psychology Important Books

The following table shows MSc Psychology books list that helps students to perform well in the semester end examinations:

Book Title Author Name
Cambridge International AS and A Level Psychology Coursebook Julia Russell and Fiona Lintern
Psychology Course Book: The Only DP Resources Developed with the IB (Oxford Ib Diploma Programme) Crane
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
Personality Disorders (Clinical Psychology: A Modular Course) Paul M. G. Emmelkamp and Jan Henk Kamphuis
NLP: Essential Crash Course to Harnessing the Power of NLP for Mind Control, Hypnosis, & Self Confidence (Psychology of Success, Confidence, Motivation, Communication, Emotions, Behavior Book 1) J.D. Saunders and NLP
Changing the Course of Autism: A Scientific Approach for Parents and Physician Bryan Jepson and Jane Johnson
Cognitive Psychology For Dummies Peter J. Hills and Michael Pake
The Social Psychology of Aggression: 2nd Edition (Social Psychology: A Modular Course) Barbara Krahé

Which is Better: MSc Psychology or MA Psychology?

The basic difference between MSc Psychology and MA Psychology programs are provided in the table below for the aspirants to understand the differences between these two courses:

Parameters MSc Psychology MA Psychology
Full Form Master of Science in Psychology Master of Arts in Psychology
Course Overview MSc degree in Psychology basically focuses on research and the science behind the brain, behaviour and psychological processes. MA degree in Psychology focuses on the study of liberal arts and theories of the subject.
Duration  2 years  2 years
Eligibility  Student must be from Science background Student must be from Humanities background
Average Annual Fees INR 3,000 to 2 Lakhs INR 5,000 to 1.5 Lakhs
Average Salary INR 4 to 15 LPA INR 3 to 11 LPA
Colleges Amity University, Banaras Hindu University, Mount Carmel College, Bangalore etc. Amity University, Banaras Hindu University, Mount Carmel College, Bangalore etc.
Gender Ratio 1:3 1:2
Future Prospects  An academic career with a lot of research and knowledge. A professional career in hospitals, schools or industries.
Fees And Salary

Source: University websites and Payscale

MSc Psychology Jobs

Students holding an MSc in Psychology degree can work in consulting with top corporate executives and they can also work as a medical counsellor in hospitals.

Social Service and Mental Health Career are two of the most popular career options for Psychology graduates. 

Owing to a MSc Psychology scope and huge demand for professionals in these fields, they can expect to earn a handsome amount of income and can also get the opportunity to work directly with patients who are struggling with mental illness and other ailments. 

As most of the best jobs in industry are reserved for Psychologists with a Doctorate in Psychology, so students must think about doing a Phd in Psychology after completion of this program.

Some of the top MSc Psychology jobs, along with their corresponding salaries are provided in the table given below:

Job Profile  Average Annual Salary
Psychologist INR 9 Lacs
Educational Psychologist INR 3 Lacs
Social Psychologist INR 6 Lacs
Urban Planning Officer INR 6 Lacs
Staff Recruiter INR 3 Lacs

The salary trends of some of the top posts that MSc Psychology postgraduates can opt for are given below:

Jobs

Source: Payscale

On completion of the MSc Psychology program, candidates can opt for a wide range of professions.

  • With the MSc Psychology degree, students will be able to make their career in the field of Psychology as a Psychologist, Urban Development Officer, Staff Recruiter etc.. MSc Psychology scope is rising at a fast pace and will continue to do so in future also. 
  • There are a large number of areas both in the private as well as in the public sector where a MSc Psychology graduate can work.  

Study Options after MSc Psychology

Students can choose any of the careers in accordance to their skills and interests. Some of the topmost career choices in terms of higher studies after completion of MSc Psychology program are provided below:

  • MPhil in Psychology: M.Phil. in Psychology is a 2 years full time graduate course which is divided into 4 semesters. This course helps students to understand the mind and behaviour of individuals and boasts the knowledge gained in the MSc Psychology. This degree further helps to make a good career in the fields of academics.
  • Ph.D in Psychology: After pursuing MSc Psychology course, it is advisable that students should pursue Ph.D. in Psychology course. It is always recommended to go for further studies after pursuing this program as otherwise, it won’t be that beneficial.

One can go for higher studies or can also opt for a decent job. It all depends on you whether you want to do a job after completing MSc in Psychology or you wish to study further.

MSc Psychology: FAQs

Some of the most frequently asked questions pertaining to MSc Psychology program are given below:

Ques. What is the full form of MSc Psychology?

Ans. The full form of MSc Psychology is Master of Science in Psychology.

Ques. I have done B.Sc. (Hons.) Zoology. Can I pursue an MSc Psychology program?

Ans. This depends on the college/ university in which you are applying as different colleges have different eligibility criteria.

Ques. What is the MSc PsychologyScope ?

Ans. After pursuing an MSc Psychology program, you can opt for jobs as a Psychologist, Urban Planning Officer etc. or you can also go for further studies such as Ph.D. in Psychology.

Ques. What is the eligibility criterion to pursue an MSc Psychology program in India?

Ans. In order to be eligible to apply for MSc must hold a BA or B.Sc. Psychology degree from a recognized university with an aggregate of at least 50% marks. However, students holding any other degree such as Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), BA Sociology, B.Sc. Home Science, B.A. Philosophy or B.Ed. with Psychology Papers.

Ques. Where can I pursue an MSc Psychology program in India?

Ans. Some of the top universities and institutes offering MSc in Psychology program in India are as Allahabad University, Amity University of Behavioural Health and Applied Sciences, Awadhesh Pratap Singh University, Banaras Hindu University, Banasthali University, Bhavnagar University, Government College for Women etc.

Ques. Is MSc Psychology a tough course?

Ans. MSc in Psychology is a very exciting course and will help a student in understanding human beings better.

Ques. Is a Master’s degree in Psychology worth doing?

Ans. Psychology is a field that will definitely grow in future. With time we are going to need more psychological treatments to lead a stress-free life. This course has good pay, good scope for research and a continuously growing market.

Ques. What are the subjects in the MSc Psychology course?

Ans. MSc Psychology covers subjects such as Cognitive Psychology, Statistics in Behavioural Science, Research Methods in Psychology, NeuroPsychology, Psychology of Social Behaviour Theory, Dynamics and Interpersonal Behaviour Theory, Applications of Psychology, Self and Positive Theory, Personality Theory, Dynamics and Interpersonal Behaviour Theory.

Ques. Can I do regular MSc Psychology after distance B.Sc. Psychology?

Ans. Yes, you are eligible to seek admission to MSc Psychology program on a regular basis even after doing your B.Sc. through distance learning.

Master of Science [M.Sc] (Psychology) : 6 answered questions

VIEW ALL

Ques. Which is better for an MA/MSc in psychology through distance learning, IGNOU or Annamalai University?

● Top Answer By Singdha Bnerjee on 05 Mar 22

Ans. One of my friends completed his MA in Industrial Psychology through IGNOU. According to him, it is a well-thought-out course with a term-end examination, compulsory internship, and research projects. My friend also consulted with some practicing Psychologists regarding the study material. According to them, the course is at par with the regular university courses.  The advantage of this course is that you can complete the course over a period of 5 years and examinations are taken twice each year. So, you can take examinations for 2-3 subjects each term and complete the course easily along with a full-time course or job. Study Center and Regional Center are two points of contact for IGNOU.  Lately, there have been some issues regarding RCs and teachers in IGNOU. Going forward they need to address these issues. Read more
0
0
2 Answer
●●●

Ques. Is anyone done an M.Sc in psychology in Madras University Distance Education? Is attendance compulsory?

● Top Answer By Nayun Yogi on 30 Nov 21

Ans. Yes, one of my friends studied in Institute Of Distance Education (IDE) University Of Madras. He completed his Masters in Psychology from there. According to him, you will have 10 theory classes per year and a 50% attendance is mandatory in those classes, otherwise you won't be able to sit for your examination. You will face a problem in getting your hall ticket generated. In the second year with the theory classes, there will be classes for practicals on weekdays. Attendance on all 3 days is compulsory. Your schedule will become a bit hectic. The practical exam will also be on a weekday. For this you will have to complete your record for the exercises done and submit it the examination date.Read more
0
1
1 Answer
●●●

Ques. Which one is better correspondence course MA psychology from from IGNOU or MSc Psychology from University of Madras?

● Top Answer By Ritabhari Dasgupta on 13 Jul 22

Ans. IGNOU is better recognized for distance courses. So, pursuing a correspondence course in MA Psychology will be better. However, if possible try to do a regular course in counseling, clinical or industrial psychology. Psychology is practical oriented subject, and you will need to do dissertations, practicals, and internships as a part of coursework. Being a practical-based course, the career outcomes of correspondence degrees in Psychology are somewhat limited.Read more
0
0
2 Answer
●●●

Ques. Which one is the best: an M.Sc in Applied Psychology from Annamalai University’s distance education or an M.A in Applied Psychology from Chandigarh University’s distance education?

● Top Answer By Niraj Thakur on 19 Nov 22

Ans. It will be difficult to choose between Annamalai University and Chandigarh University, just as it is difficult to choose where to study when there are so many options. I recommend that you look into Chandigarh University's distance learning program. Chandigarh University's distance education department is relatively new, but it is very promising. The Institute of Distance & Online Learning at Chandigarh University is UGC-DEB accredited, making it an approved distance learning program. Moving on, the facilities and support in distance programs are very helpful and student-friendly. First and foremost, you will receive all study materials and have free access to their online content, which includes videos, e-courses, SLM, and quizzes. Aside from multimedia and course materials, the CU LMS (Learning Management System for distance learners) includes features such as rubrics, teacher and instructor-facilitated learning, a discussion board, a course tracker, download and submit assignments, interact with faculty, and a virtual programming environment and e-library. Furthermore, despite being a distance learner, you will be able to visit the campus, participate in numerous workshops and seminars, and gain first-hand experience with industry tools. With a curriculum that meets international and industry standards, you will also have access to the university's placement drive, which means you can even be placed via distance education.Read more
0
0
1 Answer
●●●

Ques. How is the MSc psychology program in Jain University?

● Top Answer By Ranita Roshan on 19 Jul 21

Ans. M.Sc Psychology has good reviews in general, but it is not preferred to pursue it from Jain University. Psychology these days is expanding tremendously as people are realizing the need for therapy and mental health. Jain University students will not be able to compete with those of any other college. As per my friends’ experience, you will be given 50 PPTs in total to mug up the course material. It might contain good information but it is not enough for the postgraduate level. In terms of knowledge and growth, Jain University is not the place to. The general environment is relaxed, even attendance isn't an issue. However, they are not goal-oriented and do not offer any help with placements either. If you're interested in psychology then prepare for entrances facilitated by Delhi University, AMU, Hyderabad University or JNU, or any other top university. You should find someone on LinkedIn who has already qualified for the program at Jain University and is employed in the domain of your choice.Read more
1
0
1 Answer
●●●

Ques. I am a BCom student. Can I pursue Christ University’s MSc psychology course?

● Top Answer By Admin on 31 May 24

Ans. You can pursue an MSc in psychology from Christ University after completing BCom. A candidate can do an MSc in psychology at Christ University with 50% marks after graduation from a recognized university.Read more
0
0
1 Answer
●●●

Comments


No Comments To Show

Master of Science [M.Sc] (Psychology) Colleges IN INDIA

View All
PES University - [PESU]
Bangalore, Karnataka
2.1 L first year fees
VIEW ALL COURSES & FEES
5.86 K first year fees
VIEW ALL COURSES & FEES
Christ University
Bangalore, Karnataka
1.25 L first year fees
VIEW ALL COURSES & FEES
2.02 L first year fees
VIEW ALL COURSES & FEES
REVA University
Bangalore, Karnataka
2 L Total fees
VIEW ALL COURSES & FEES
Presidency College
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
930 first year fees
VIEW ALL COURSES & FEES
87.8 K first year fees
VIEW ALL COURSES & FEES
935 first year fees
VIEW ALL COURSES & FEES