How to Become a Psychologist in India is a common question that comes to the mind of many aspirants. In recent years, Psychology has become one of the most chosen disciplines by the candidates. The minimum eligibility criteria required to become a Psychologist in India is to pass a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from any recognized university/institute. However, due to the high competition in the industry, it is recommended that applicants complete a master’s degree in Psychology, Counselling, or Social Work to get an upper hand. Most of the successful Psychologists in India also possess a doctorate in Psychology. After obtaining the requisite degrees, candidates need to obtain a lifetime registration certificate from the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI).

Psychologists are professional graduates who specialize in studying human behaviour, human brain chemistry, psychological chemical reactions, and adaptations. They diagnose all the problems related to the mental health of human beings. Read on to learn more about how to become a Psychologist in India including important details like eligibility criteria, popular entrance exams, and other latest updates. 

What is Psychology?

Psychology is a scientific discipline that talks about the study of nature and the complexities of human behaviour, the reason behind human nature, and several other aspects. In India, the psychology degree is provided at several levels like diploma, bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate, and postgraduate diploma. Recently, several online platforms also offer online psychology courses at a much more affordable cost. Candidates need to pass entrance exams that are conducted by the universities at the time of admission to the Psychology degree program. Some of the popular entrance exams are the Delhi University Entrance Test (DUET), Central University Entrance Test (CUET), and Manipal University Online Entrance Test (MU OET). 

How to Become a Psychologist in India: Highlights

The key points on How to Become a Psychologist in India are mentioned below:

How to Become a Psychologist in India: Eligibility Criteria

While applying for Psychology admission to any university in India, candidates must go through the minimum eligibility criteria that are set by the conducting body of the university/college. Although the universities conduct the entrance exams separately, but the criteria are more or less the same. Here we have curated all the important pointers explaining the eligibility criteria required to become a Psychologist in India for the convenience of the students.

• Candidates must pass their higher secondary in any stream with at least 50% marks in aggregate

• The minimum age limit required to become a Psychologist in India is 17 years as of 31st December of the applying year

• For a postgraduate degree, candidates must pass a bachelor’s degree with at least 55% marks in aggregate in the relevant subject

Also Read: Career in Clinical Psychology

How to Become a Psychologist in India

To become a Psychologist in India, candidates must go through some important steps. Here we have mentioned the necessary steps required to become a Psychologist in India for the convenience of the students.

Step 1: Pass Higher Secondary 

As a first step to become a Psychologist in India, candidates must pass from their school level. Aspirants need to pass their higher secondary education from any recognized school or educational institution. Candidates can complete their higher secondary in any stream of their choice. But, it is important to remember that they need to score at least 50% in their 10+2 level.

Step 2: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree

The next step after passing the higher secondary exam is to take admission to a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Candidates can choose to complete their honours either Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Psychology. 

Step 3: Complete a Master’s Degree

Candidates need to complete their bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks in aggregate in order to apply for a postgraduate degree in Psychology or other relevant subjects. During this time, candidates can also go on to complete some internships to boost their personal experience and knowledge. 

Step 4: Gain Experience

The candidates need to gain work experience to become a Psychologist in India. Aspirants can gain experience by working with professors or as a research assistant. Several companies arrange internship programme for students pursuing psychology. Candidates can also volunteer for several asylums, clinics and mental health hospitals to gain in depth knowledge and real life experience in the said field. 

Step 5: Complete Any Specialization Course

To become a Psychologist in India, candidates must remember that they have to go through a lot of competition. With each passing day, people are becoming more aware of mental health issues and hence the demand for Psychologists in India is rising. So, to stay ahead of the competition, candidates should complete a specialization course in the said field. Not only will this help them in their professional life, but students will also be able to gain the necessary skills required to become a Psychologist in India.

Also Read: Psychology vs Sociology

Popular Psychology Course After 12th in India

Several psychology courses can be pursued right after completing higher secondary education with at least 50% marks in aggregate. Some of the popular psychology courses that can be taken to become a Psychologist in India are listed below.

• BA Psychology

• Diploma in Child Psychology

• Diploma in Applied Psychology

• Clinical Psychology

• BSc Psychology

• Industrial and Organizational Psychology

• Sports Psychology

• Bachelor of Arts in Mental Health

Become a Psychologist: Career Path

In the field of psychology, students can choose from various professional avenues. Here are some options for those aspiring to pursue a career in psychology.
Counseling Psychologist: These professionals offer therapeutic services to individuals and groups, working in settings such as schools, government organizations, and industries.

• Rehabilitation Psychologist: Working with individuals facing disabilities, addiction, or significant physical and emotional injuries, rehabilitation psychologists contribute to overcoming challenges and improving the quality of life in hospitals or rehabilitation centres.
• Researcher: After obtaining a doctoral degree, individuals can delve into research within their specialized area, conducting experiments, gathering and analyzing data, and interpreting results.
• Professor: Upon completing advanced degrees, individuals can teach psychology at colleges and universities, engaging in research, writing, and student mentoring.
• Biopsychologist: Exploring the connection between biology and psychology, biopsychologists focus on behavioural research, as well as neuropsychiatric and developmental psychology.
• Family Psychologist: Addressing issues within families, these psychologists assist in resolving conflicts, enhancing communication skills, and improving overall relationships.
• School Psychologist: Focusing on emotional problems, learning disabilities, and behaviour in school settings, these professionals aid students with academic, social, and emotional challenges.

How to Become a Psychologist Through Distance Education?

Follow the steps given below to become a Psychologist in India by pursuing Distance Education Courses. 

• Complete 12th Grade from a recognized board of education. It is mandatory to pass class 12 with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks.
• Candidates can enroll in BA Psychology or other Diploma Courses offered in distance education learning colleges/universities Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) and Nalanda Open University.
• Pay the online admission fees though the official website’s admission portal. 
• During the course duration, candidates can do few internships related to this role, which may lead to a better job profile in future.
• After completion of the Psychology Course, candidates can apply for jobs in Schools and Hospitals to begin a career as a Psychologist. 

Popular Colleges in India Offering Psychology

Some of the popular colleges in India that offer Psychology degree course are as follows:

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