Clinical Psychology: Admission 2023, Fees, Syllabus, Entrance Exam, Career Scope

Updated on Nov 6, 2023 09:53 IST
Parul Thapa

Parul ThapaSenior Executive Content

Clinical Psychology degree is a subfield of Psychology that focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental disorders and emotional difficulties. Clinical psychology degree graduates are trained to work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds who may be experiencing a wide range of Psychological, emotional, and behavioural issues. 

To be eligible for a Clinical Psychology course such as BSc Clinical Psychology, candidates must make sure to pass Class 12 in the Science stream with PCB (Physics, Chemistry and Biology) subjects with a minimum of 50 per cent. Usually, the Clinical Psychology degree admission is based on the Class 12 scores. The average Clinical Psychology course fee ranges between INR 6,000 and INR 5.8 Lakh.

Once graduated with a Clinical Psychology course such as BSc Clinical Psychology, candidates can opt for job profiles such as Psychiatrists, Counsellor, Clinical Psychologists, etc. The average salary that a Clinical Psychology graduate earns ranges between INR 3 LPA and INR 5.9 LPA. Candidates can continue reading further to know more about the Clinical Psychology course details.

Table of Contents
  1. Clinical Psychology Latest Updates
  2. Clinical Psychology Highlights
  3. All About Clinical Psychology
  4. Clinical Psychology Eligibility Criteria
  5. Clinical Psychology Syllabus
    • 5.1 Clinical Psychology Specialisation
    • 5.2 What is the difference between BSc Psychology and BA Psychology?
  6. Top Clinical Psychology Colleges 
    • 6.1 Top Government Clinical Psychology Colleges
    • 6.2 Top Private Clinical Psychology Colleges
  7. Clinical Psychology Career Scope: Job Profile, Salary and Top Recruiters
    • 7.1 Clinical Psychology Average Salary 
  8. Clinical Psychology Abroad for Indian Students
  9. Clinical Psychology FAQs

Clinical Psychology Latest Updates

Clinical Psychology Highlights

Clinical psychology is a branch of Psychology that focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental and emotional disorders. Candidates can check the table below to know the key points of the Clinical Psychology course.

Particulars Details
Course Level UG, PG, Diploma and Certificates
Course Duration 2-3 years
Course Fee INR 6,000 - INR 5.8 Lakh
Admission Criteria Merit-Based
Popular Colleges Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Amity University, Jamia Millia Islamia, etc.
Job Profiles Psychiatrists, Counsellors, Clinical Psychologists, etc.
Average Salary INR 3 LPA - INR 5.9 LPA
Top Recruiters Rehabilitation Psychologist, Counsellors, Clinical Psychologists, etc.

All About Clinical Psychology

Clinical Psychology duration for the undergraduate level such as BSc Clinical Psychology is three years and that of the postgraduate level is two years. Clinical Psychology pedagogy involves theoretical as well as practical aspects. The difference between Psychology and Clinical Psychology lies in the fact that the former takes a deeper look at the psychological aspects including behaviour, stages of mind and psychological functions. On the other hand, Clinical Psychology delves into the cognitive aspect of the mind including mental illness, treatment and diagnosis.

To put it in simpler words, Psychology students study human perception, emotion, personality and behaviour whereas Clinical Psychologists use scientific methods and psychological principles to treat psychological illnesses or disorders.

Candidates interested in the field of research need to have comprehensive knowledge of Clinical Psychology. During the three years of BSc Clinical Psychology, students get exposure to the basic components of Psychology. Workshops are carried out every year on different topics which range from Hypnosis to dream analysis. This differs from college to college.

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Clinical Psychology Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for the Clinical Psychology course such as BSc Clinical Psychology are as follows:

  • Candidates should pass the Class 12 Board exam with a minimum of 50 per cent aggregate from a recognised board.
  • They must have studied Science stream with Biology as a core subject.
  • There is no age limit.
  • For pursuing a master's course in Clinical Psychology, candidates must have a BSc Clinical Psychology or a relevant course.

Clinical Psychology Syllabus

The Clinical Psychology syllabus may vary according to the degree of the course, such as BA Clinical Psychology and BSc Clinical Psychology. In this section, we bring the subjects or papers taught in the Clinical Psychology courses. Candidates can check the table below for the same.

Semester  Syllabus
Semester 1
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Attention and Perception
  • Intelligence and Creativity
  • Motivation
Semester 2
  • Learning
  • Memory
  • Cognition
  • Nature and Methods of Physiological Psychology
Semester 3
  • Nature of Psychological Research
  • Steps in Psychological Research
  • Hypothesis
  • Problem and Variables
Semester 4
  • Life Cycle Approach to Development
  • Social and Cultural Context in Human Development
  • Culture and Human Development
  • Cognitive Development
Semester 5
  • Social Perception and Cognition
  • Attitudes
  • Prejudice and Discrimination
  • Group and Leadership
Semester 6
  • Environment and Behaviour
  • Psychological Approaches to the Environment
  • Ecology and Development
  • Demography

Clinical Psychology Specialisation

Some of the specialisations in the Clinical Psychology courses are as follows:

  • Forensic Psychology

  • Clinical Child Psychology

  • Health Psychology

  • Clinical Neuropsychology

  • Geropsychology

What is the difference between BSc Psychology and BA Psychology?

While a BSc Psychology is a Science degree, a BA Psychology is an Arts degree. Apart from this, there is not much difference between the two courses as the core subjects usually remain the same. BA Psychology manages the counselling aspects of Psychology and is application-based. A student with a BA degree in Psychology is more likely to find a job as a guidance counsellor with different organisations whereas, a BSc Psychology deals with the clinical aspect of Psychology and a student has to learn research and statistics methodologies besides other subjects related to Psychology. BSc Psychology is suited for students who have an interest in reasoning and Mathematics.

Also Read: What is the Difference between BA Psychology and BSc Psychology?

Top Clinical Psychology Colleges 

It's essential to visit the official websites of these universities and institutions for the most up-to-date information on Clinical Psychology, admission procedures, and eligibility criteria. Additionally, consider factors such as location, faculty expertise, and available resources when making your decision about where to pursue Clinical Psychology education.

Following are the top institutes offering Clinical Psychology courses. 

Top Government Clinical Psychology Colleges

Jamia Millia Islamia, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, MUH, and PSGCAS are the top government colleges that offer Clinical Psychology courses in India. Candidates can check these government colleges offering Clinical Psychology courses in the table below:

College Name Total fees (in INR)
Jamia Millia Islamia 31,700
SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre 5.1 Lakh
MUHS  8,100
PSG College of Arts and Science - PSGCAS 20,000
Chinmaya Vishwa Vidyapeeth 3.8 Lakh
Mizoram University 6,000
Rashtriya Raksha University 2 Lakh

Also Read: Clinical Psychology Colleges in India

Top Private Clinical Psychology Colleges

Jamia Millia Islamia, SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, MUH, and PSGCAS are the top government colleges that offer Clinical Psychology courses in India. Candidates can check these government colleges offering Clinical Psychology courses in the table below:

College Name Total Fees (in INR)
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences 2 Lakh
Amity University, Noida 1.8 Lakh
Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore 5.8 Lakh
Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research 3 Lakh
SHUATS  22,000
SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai  2.4 Lakh
Manipal College of Health Professions 4.8 Lakh - 5.6 Lakh
Apollo Institute of Medical Sciences and Research 2.2 Lakh

Clinical Psychology Career Scope: Job Profile, Salary and Top Recruiters

Clinical Psychology has a promising career scope in India due to the growing awareness of mental health issues and the increasing demand for mental health services. To pursue a career in Clinical Psychology in India, one typically needs a master's degree in Clinical Psychology or a related field, followed by licensure or registration with relevant professional bodies.

It's important to stay updated on the latest developments in the field and consider ongoing professional development and specialization to remain competitive in the job market. Overall, the Clinical Psychology career scope in India is promising, with opportunities for both personal and professional growth.

Clinical Psychology Average Salary 

The graduates of Clinical Psychology get various chances to work in many different fields in both the private sector and the government sector. They work in departments like hospitals, educational institutes, corporate organisations, etc.

Some of the Clinical Psychology job profiles which are open for graduates are given in the table below.

Category

Description

Average Salary (in INR)

Rehabilitation Psychologist

Rehabilitation psychologists work with individuals who have disabilities or injuries to help them regain independence and improve their quality of life. 4 LPA

Counsellors

Counselling psychologists focus on helping individuals deal with everyday life challenges, such as relationship issues, stress, and career decisions.  3 LPA

Clinical Psychologists

Clinical psychologists provide assessment, diagnosis, and treatment services to individuals with various mental health issues. 

4 LPA

Child and Adolescent Psychologist

These psychologists specialize in working with children and adolescents, addressing issues such as behavioural problems, developmental disorders, academic challenges, and emotional difficulties. 

3 LPA

Forensic Psychologist

Forensic psychologists apply their expertise in psychology to legal and criminal justice settings. 

5.9 LPA

Clinical Psychology Abroad for Indian Students

Studying clinical psychology abroad can be a great opportunity for Indian students to gain a global perspective, access high-quality education, and potentially develop a career in a foreign country or back in India.

The candidates must not forget to review the admission requirements for each MSc course, including academic prerequisites, standardized test scores (such as GRE or TOEFL/IELTS for English proficiency), letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose.

The popular countries for MSc courses are GermanyUSAUKCanadaAustraliaIreland and New Zealand.

Clinical Psychology FAQs

Q. What does a clinical psychologist do?

A. A clinical psychologist is a mental health professional who specializes in the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of mental illnesses and behavioural disorders. They use a combination of psychotherapy and psychological testing to help patients manage their symptoms, improve their mental health, and enhance their overall well-being. 

Clinical psychologists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, and private practices. They may work with individuals, couples, families, or groups to address a range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, and learning difficulties. 

Q. Is Clinical Psychology a Dr?

A. Clinical Psychologists may hold a doctoral degree (PhD) in Psychology, just like in many other countries. However, the use of the title Dr for clinical psychologists in India can vary.

Clinical psychologists in India may use the ‘Dr’ title, especially if they have earned a PhD in Psychology. 

The specific title conventions can vary depending on individual preferences, the institution where they work, and local norms. It's essential to verify a psychologist's credentials and qualifications when seeking their services.

Q. Does Clinical Psychology require NEET?

A. NEET is primarily associated with admissions to medical and dental undergraduate programs, and it is not typically required for admission to Clinical Psychology. It is a field within Psychology, and entrance requirements for psychology programs, including Clinical Psychology, are generally distinct from the NEET.

Admission to Clinical Psychology in India is usually based on merit. However, admission procedures can vary depending on the institution and state. 

Q. What is the qualification of a Clinical Psychologist?

A. The qualifications required to become a clinical psychologist can vary by country and institution, but there are some general steps and qualifications that are typically followed to become a clinical psychologist. 

Here are the common qualifications and steps:

  • Bachelor's Degree: The first step is to complete a BSc Psychology, BSc Clinical Psychology or a related field. 
  • Master's Degree: After completing a bachelor's degree, aspiring clinical psychologists usually pursue a master's degree in Clinical Psychology or a closely related field. 
  • Doctoral Degree: The most common qualification for clinical psychologists is a doctoral degree. 

Q. Which course is best for Clinical Psychology?

A. MA Clinical Psychology is the best course for Clinical Psychology.

An MA (Master of Arts) in Clinical Psychology is a postgraduate degree program that offers specialized training in the field of clinical psychology. This program is designed to prepare students for careers as clinical psychologists who are qualified to assess, diagnose, and provide psychological treatment and therapy to individuals with mental health issues and emotional disorders.

Q. Is Clinical Psychology a high-paying job?

A. Clinical Psychology in India, like many other countries, offers a range of income levels depending on various factors, including experience, location, and specific job opportunities.

  • Entry-Level: INR 2.5 - 4.5 LPA
  • Mid-Level: INR 4.5 - 7.5 LPA
  • Experience-Level: INR 7.5 - 15 LPA

Q. Does a Clinical Psychologist need an MBBS?

A. No, a Clinical Psychologist does not need an MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) degree. Clinical Psychologists and medical doctors (MBBS) have different educational and training paths.

medical doctors (MBBS) follow a different educational path that involves medical school, internship, and residency training, and they are qualified to diagnose and treat medical conditions, including mental health issues. Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists often work collaboratively to provide comprehensive care for individuals with mental health issues.

Q. Can MBBS do Clinical Psychology?

A. Individuals with an MBBS degree are qualified medical doctors. While they have a strong medical background and are capable of diagnosing and treating various medical conditions, including those related to mental health, they are not typically qualified to work as clinical psychologists without additional education and training in Psychology.

Q. Is Clinical Psychology a BSc or BA?

A. Clinical Psychology is typically not a BSc (Bachelor of Science) or BA (Bachelor of Arts) program at the undergraduate level. Instead, clinical psychology is a specialized field of Psychology that one typically pursues at the postgraduate level.

Undergraduate degrees in psychology or related fields provide the foundational knowledge needed for advanced studies in Clinical Psychology.

Q. What can I do after Class 12 to become a clinical psychologist?

A. To become a clinical psychologist after completing your 12th grade, you'll need to follow a specific educational and training path. 

Begin by earning a bachelor's degree. While it's common for students to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Psychology, candidates can also consider related fields such as Sociology, Biology, or even Social Work. After completing a bachelor's degree, the next step is to enrol in a Master's program in Clinical Psychology. 

Q. What is the difference between BSc Psychology and Clinical Psychology?

A. The key difference between a BSc (Bachelor of Science) in Psychology and Clinical Psychology is the focus and level of education.

A BSc in Psychology is an undergraduate degree program that typically spans three years. BSc in Psychology offers a general overview of Psychology, covering various subfields, including Cognitive Psychology, Social Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and more. It is not specialized in clinical psychology.

On the other hand, Clinical Psychology typically begins at the postgraduate level. To become a clinical psychologist, candidates usually need to complete a master's or doctoral program. Clinical Psychology is a specialized field within psychology that emphasizes the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health and emotional issues using psychological approaches like psychotherapy and counselling.

Popular Clinical Psychology Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Clinical Psychology Colleges in India. Learn more about these Clinical Psychology colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
1 Course
31.73 K
2 L
5.4 LPA

#18 NIRF

1.79 L
3 LPA
5.84 L
11.68 LPA

#30 NIRF

Clinical Psychology Applications open. Apply Now

1 Course
3 L
5 LPA

#21 NIRF

Popular Private Clinical Psychology Colleges in India

1.79 L
3 LPA
1 Course
31.73 K
2 L
5.4 LPA

#18 NIRF

5.84 L
11.68 LPA

#30 NIRF

Clinical Psychology Applications open. Apply Now

1 Course
3 L
5 LPA

#21 NIRF

Most Popular Courses

Following are the most popular Clinical Psychology courses, based on alumni reviews. Explore these reviews to choose the best course in Clinical Psychology.

Popular Clinical Psychology UG Courses in India

Following are the most popular Clinical Psychology UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Clinical Psychology PG Courses in India

Following are the most popular Clinical Psychology PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

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