PhD in Psychology Course, Fees, Admissions 2024, Eligibility, Syllabus, Scope
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PhD in Psychology Course, Fees, Admissions 2024, Eligibility, Syllabus, Scope

#Ph.D
Team Careers360Updated on 25 Jun 2025, 10:09 AM IST

PhD in Psychology is a doctoral-level programme typically completed in three years or more. It focuses on the clinical and theoretical aspects of human and animal behaviour, exploring various treatment methods and research approaches. Candidates with a recognised master’s degree in psychology are eligible to pursue this advanced course.

This Story also Contains

  1. PhD Psychology Course- Highlights
  2. PhD in Psychology Eligibility Criteria
  3. PhD in Psychology Admission Process
  4. Top Entrance Exams for PhD in Psychology
  5. PhD in Psychology Cutoff
  6. PhD Psychology Syllabus
  7. PhD in Psychology Fee Structure
  8. Scope of PhD in Psychology
  9. Career Opportunities after PhD in Psychology
  10. Top Private PhD Psychology Colleges in India with Fees
  11. Top Government PhD Psychology Colleges in India with Fees

To enrol in a PhD course, students must complete both undergraduate and postgraduate studies in psychology. Common undergraduate degrees include BA, B.Sc, BBA, or B.Com, while popular postgraduate options include MA, M.Sc, M.Com, or MBA. A relevant academic background is essential for eligibility in a doctoral psychology programme.

Students must fulfil the eligibility requirements of the course before applying for admission. They must have completed a Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline from a recognised university. They must also clear relevant entrance exams such as UGC NET, with a valid aggregate score.

Many private and public institutes offer PhD Psychology courses; popular colleges are Akal College of Arts and Social Sciences, Anugraha Institute of Social Sciences, and Government Arts College. The average course fees of a PhD in Psychology range from Rs. 16,000 to Rs. 6 Lakhs.

PhD Psychology Important Dates and Events

UGC NET Exam Date- June 21- 30, 2025

PhD Psychology Course- Highlights

A PhD in Psychology is a doctoral-level programme designed for students interested in advanced research and clinical practice in mental health and behaviour. The course typically spans three years and requires a master’s degree for eligibility. Admissions are either merit-based or through exams like UGC NET. Below are the key course highlights.

Particulars

Values

Degree Name

PhD in Psychology

Degree Type

Doctoral

PhD in Psychology Duration

Three to Five years

PhD in Psychology Entrance Exams

UGC NET

PhD in Psychology Eligibility Criteria

Master’s degree in a related field

PhD in Psychology Admission Process

Entrance/ Merit-based

PhD in Psychology Average Fees

Rs. 16,000 to Rs. 6 Lakhs

PhD in Psychology Average Salary

Rs. 3.7 LPA (Psychologist)

PhD in Psychology Job Profiles

Clinical Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Research Associate

PhD in Psychology Top Recruiters

Colleges, Universities, Healthcare Centres, Private Clinics, Hospitals, and Counselling Offices

PhD in Psychology Eligibility Criteria

To secure admission into the PhD in Psychology programme, candidates must meet specific academic and procedural requirements. While the general criteria remain similar across most universities, applicants should always consult the official guidelines of their chosen institution for exact details. Below are the standard eligibility parameters:

Particulars

Eligibility Parameters

Educational Qualification

Postgraduate degree (MA/M.Sc) in Psychology or a related discipline from a recognised university

Entrance Examinations

Required to qualify for national-level entrance exams like UGC NET or equivalent

Application Process

Candidates who pass the entrance exam must complete the institutional application process

PhD in Psychology Admission Process

Admission to the PhD in Psychology programme is typically entrance-based and follows a structured selection process. While specific procedures may vary slightly across institutions, the fundamental steps remain consistent. Candidates are advised to follow university-specific admission guidelines carefully.

Step 1: Check Eligibility – Ensure that you meet all academic qualifications and other eligibility requirements as set by the university or institute.

Step 2: Appear for Entrance Exam – Sit for national or university-level entrance exams like UGC NET or equivalent, and secure the required cut-off score.

Step 3: Submit Application Form – Complete the application process by providing accurate academic and personal details on the university’s official portal.

Step 4: Participate in Interview Rounds – Shortlisted candidates are invited for group discussions or personal interviews, which assess their research aptitude and subject knowledge.

Step 5: Final Admission Offer – Candidates who successfully clear all selection rounds are offered admission and must confirm their seat by submitting documents and paying the admission fee.

Top Entrance Exams for PhD in Psychology

Admission to the PhD in Psychology programme is primarily granted through national-level entrance examinations conducted by recognised bodies. Most universities follow an entrance-based selection process. Below is one of the most common entrance exams for a PhD in Psychology in India:

Exam Name

Conducting Body

Cutoff

UGC NET

National Testing Agency (NTA)

UGC NET Cutoff

PhD in Psychology Cutoff

The cutoff for a PhD in psychology can be defined as the minimum score for any entrance exam that students must score to be scored by the students for admission to their choice of university and course. The cutoff for a PhD in Psychology is released by many institutes all over India after the completion of the admission process.

PhD Psychology Syllabus

The syllabus for a PhD in Psychology varies depending on the student’s chosen research area and interests. However, universities follow structured coursework. Below is the semester-wise coursework followed by the University of Hyderabad for its PhD Psychology programme, including theory and research components.

Semester 1Semester 2

Theory (Research Methodology and Advanced Statistics)

Review Paper

Book Review

Empirical Paper

PhD in Psychology Fee Structure

The fee structure for PhD in psychology courses is subjective and depends from university to university. Some universities charge lower fees due to external funding from the government or private companies. However, a rough estimate of the average fee structure for PhD in psychology courses ranges between Rs. 16,000 to Rs. 6 Lakhs.

Scope of PhD in Psychology

The scope of a PhD in Psychology is vast, especially within the healthcare and education sectors. This degree provides students with in-depth knowledge of human behaviour and mental health. Besides clinical roles, PhD holders can also work as counsellors in schools and universities, supporting student wellbeing and emotional development.

Career Opportunities after PhD in Psychology

A PhD in Psychology opens the door to diverse career opportunities across healthcare, education, and research sectors. Graduates can work in clinical practice, academic institutions, or pursue research-oriented roles. The degree also paves the way for private practice or consultancy services. Here are some job roles, along with average salary details.

Job Roles

Description

Average Salary (LPA)

Clinical Psychologist

Clinical Psychologists diagnose and treat a wide range of mental, emotional, and behavioural disorders. They work in hospitals, mental health clinics, and private practices to help patients manage psychological challenges through therapy and counselling.

Rs. 5 LPA

Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses using medications and therapy. They often manage complex psychiatric conditions through a combination of medical and psychological interventions.

Rs. 10 LPA

Research Associate

Research Associates assist in conducting experiments, analysing data, and publishing findings in academic or scientific journals. They work in research institutions, universities, or healthcare settings to advance knowledge in psychology.

Rs. 4.8 LPA

Counsellor

Counsellors provide emotional and psychological support to individuals dealing with stress, trauma, or life challenges. They work in schools, mental health centres, or private clinics to help clients improve their mental wellbeing.

Rs. 3.8 LPA

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Benefits of PhD in Psychology

A PhD in psychology is one of the most sought-after degree programs in the field of medical and healthcare systems. After completing their PhD in psychology, candidates have the option to either start their own medical facility or work as a counsellor in schools, universities, and NGOs.

Top Private PhD Psychology Colleges in India with Fees

Many private institutions in India offer PhD Psychology programmes, with admissions based on entrance exams or merit scores. Although tuition fees are generally higher than in government colleges, private institutes are reputed for delivering high-quality education, advanced research opportunities, and modern infrastructure to support students' academic and professional growth.

Top Government PhD Psychology Colleges in India with Fees

Several private universities in India provide PhD Psychology programmes, admitting students through entrance exams or on a merit basis. While fees at private institutions are typically higher than at government colleges, they offer excellent academic environments, experienced faculty, and advanced facilities. Here are some top private colleges, along with their fees.

A PhD in Psychology opens doors to advanced research, clinical practice, and academic careers. It is an ideal choice for those passionate about understanding and improving mental health. With growing awareness around mental well-being, the demand for qualified professionals in this field continues to rise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are average fees for a PhD in psychology?
A:

For a rough estimate of the average fee structure in PhD in psychology courses, it must be between Rs. 16,000 to Rs. 6 Lakhs for the entire course.

Q: What is the average salary after completing a PhD in Psychology?
A:

On average, the average salary of a Clinical Psychologist in India is Rs. 5 LPA.

Q: What is a PhD in Psychology?
A:

A PhD in Psychology is a doctoral degree that focuses on advanced research and study of human behaviour and mental processes. It prepares graduates for careers in research, clinical practice, and academia.

Q: What is the duration of a PhD in Psychology?
A:

PhD in Psychology is a doctoral degree programme generally completed in an ideal time of 3 years or more depending on the individual.

Q: What is the eligibility criteria for a PhD in Psychology?
A:

Graduates from a master’s degree in psychology from a recognised institute are eligible to pursue PhD in Psychology.

Q: What is the admission process for a PhD in Psychology?
A:

The admission is entrance based and national level counselling is conducted to confirm the admission.

Q: What is the scope of a PhD in psychology?
A:

The scope of PhD in psychology is quite huge in the medical sector. There are ample job opportunities available for candidates after completion of PhD in psychology.

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Questions related to Ph.D

On Question asked by student community

Have a question related to Ph.D ?

Hello purshottam mishra,

For PhD in Psychology, there are several exams like CUET and other university/institute based entrance exams. You can refer to following links for entrance exams and top PhD universities for psychology.

https://university.careers360.com/articles/cuet-psychology-question-paper

https://www.careers360.com/courses/phd-in-psychology

https://university.careers360.com/colleges/list-of-phd-in-psychology-universities-in-india

Yes, you can apply for a Ph.D. at IITs after completing your M.Tech from IIIT Hyderabad, but it depends on certain conditions. Your online M.Tech should be AICTE or UGC approved, and you should meet the minimum marks/CGPA requirement. Some IITs may have restrictions for online or part-time M.Tech programs, so it’s important to check the specific eligibility criteria of the IIT you want to apply to. Also, you may need a valid GATE score depending on the department.

Hello,

you can pursue a PhD in Hotel and Hospitality Management at universities like Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology (MAKAUT) and Sister Nivedita University if you want to do it from kolkata west bengal.for this you need Master's degree in a relevant field with at least 55% marks and UGC NET score.

Hospitiality management directly falls under the travel and tourism umbrella so you can also apply for this in amity university kolkata.

Good luck.

Hello aspirant,

For those with a master's degree in the discipline who want to pursue further research, teaching, or leadership positions in information management, a PhD in Library and Information Science is a research-focused doctoral degree.  Advanced courses, research methods, and the completion of a substantial original research project culminating in a dissertation are usually included in the curriculum.

To know about the colleges for PhD course in Library and much more information, you can visit our site through following link:

https://university.careers360.com/colleges/list-of-phd-in-library-science-degree-colleges-in-india

Thank you

Hello,

PhD in Nursing is a research-based programme. Admission is usually given through entrance exam and interview.

Basic eligibility:

  • Master’s degree in Nursing (M.Sc. Nursing) from a recognised university.

  • Minimum 55% marks (50% for reserved category).

  • Some universities also require teaching or clinical experience.

Admission process:

  • Apply to the university or institute offering PhD Nursing.

  • Appear for entrance test (based on research aptitude, nursing concepts, and subject knowledge).

  • Shortlisted candidates are called for interview or proposal presentation.

  • Final selection is based on entrance test, interview, and academic record.

Duration: Minimum 3 years, can extend up to 5-6 years depending on research work.

Hope it helps !