Psychology Courses After 12th - Eligibility, Duration & Top Institutes

Psychology courses after 12th help students explore human behaviour, emotions, and mental processes. These courses suit those wanting to understand how people think and act. Psychology is a growing field with applications in health, education, research, business, and counselling, making it an exciting career option.

The psychology course is the study of mental functions and behaviour, covering topics like memory, intelligence, emotion, and social interaction. After class 12th, students can pursue various undergraduate and diploma courses in psychology. These courses provide a deep understanding of psychological theories and practices, opening doors to diverse career paths.

Psychology is a fast-growing field with demand across industries like medicine, education, criminal justice, sports, business, and AI. To become a licensed psychologist in India, advanced studies and clinical training are required. However, many career opportunities are available even after completing a bachelor’s degree, especially as mental health awareness increases in India.

Also Read: Psychology Certification Courses

Psychology Courses after 12th

Students interested in human behaviour, emotional wellness, and mental health can choose from various psychology courses after the 12th. These courses are available in arts and science streams, including combined and diploma options. The table below lists key psychology programmes with eligibility criteria and duration.

Overview of Psychology Courses After 12th

Let’s explore each of these psychology courses in detail. This section provides a clear understanding of what every course covers, its core subjects, and how it helps students prepare for careers or further education in psychology.

BA Psychology

BA Psychology is a three-year degree programme of three years. It focuses on the functioning of the mind and human behaviour. Some of the core topics covered in the course curriculum are cognitive functions, human behaviour, personality, health and intelligence.

Students also gain insights into leading psychological theories and the biological basis of how the human brain functions. Though psychology is mainly a scientific discipline, it is open to students from all streams.

This course not only provides a pathway for pursuing a master’s degree in psychology but also provides students with the knowledge and skills to explore job opportunities in other sectors as well.

BA Psychology Eligibility

• Minimum of 50 per cent aggregate score in their 10+2
• For candidates belonging to the reserved categories, aggregate marks of 45 per cent are required
• Some universities may conduct entrance exams for psychology after the 12th. CUET UG (Common University Entrance Test) is a popular national-level examination.

BA Psychology Colleges in India

Here are some of the top colleges for BA Psychology, along with the fee structure:

Also Read: 15+ Educational Psychology Courses for Teachers

BA (Hons) Psychology

BA (Hons) Psychology is one of the most preferred undergraduate psychology courses after 12th. It is usually a three to four-year degree based on the university’s curriculum. The course offers an in-depth understanding of psychological theories, research methods, and behavioural science.

Students study various branches of psychology, including developmental, social, and abnormal psychology. This programme also focuses on analytical thinking, statistical interpretation, and psychological assessment.

Open to students from all streams, it builds a strong foundation for those aiming for careers in counselling, social work, or research. Graduates may either join the workforce or pursue postgraduate studies.

BA (Hons) Psychology Eligibility

• Minimum of 55 per cent in class 12th.
• Reserved category candidates may receive relaxation as per government norms.
• Some institutions may conduct their entrance exams or consider national-level tests like CUET UG for admission.

BA (Hons) Psychology Colleges in India

Here are some of the top colleges for BA (Hons) Psychology, along with the fee structure:

Also Read: Master’s in Psychology Abroad

BSc Psychology

BSc Psychology is a popular undergraduate course that explores the scientific aspects of human behaviour and mental processes. It is ideal for students who have a strong interest in understanding the biological and neurological foundations of psychology.

This course provides both theoretical knowledge and practical training in areas such as cognitive psychology, biological psychology, and neuropsychology. It is a three-year programme that prepares students for advanced studies or careers in psychology and related fields like mental health, research, and education.

The curriculum includes both theoretical coursework and practical experience, providing students with the skills needed for clinical or research-based roles.

BSc Psychology Eligibility

• Minimum of 55 per cent in Class 12 (any stream).
• Reserved category candidates may receive relaxation as per government norms.

BSc Psychology Colleges in India

Here are some of the top colleges for BSc Psychology, along with the fee structure:

BSc (Hons) Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology is a highly regarded course for those interested in pursuing an in-depth scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. This three-year programme covers a wide range of psychological theories and practical applications, with a focus on understanding the complexity of the human psyche.

Students will also gain insights into disturbances in mental states and may study related subjects like biochemistry and artificial intelligence, depending on the institution.

The course prepares students for various career opportunities in psychology, meeting the increasing demand for professionals in the field, including competitive clinical psychologist salaries. Although this course is ideal for students who have a background in a science subject, other academic streams can also apply.

BSc (Hons) Psychology Eligibility

• Minimum of 55 per cent in class 12
• The university-specific entrance exam for psychology after 12th.

BSc (Hons) Psychology Colleges in India

Here are some of the top colleges for BSc (Hons) Psychology, along with the fee structure:

Also Read: MA in Psychology

BA MA Dual Degree

A BA MA dual degree programme combines both the degree in clinical psychology, offered by the Amity Institute of Psychology and Applied Sciences, Noida. This combined four-and-a-half-year-long programme provides students with the comprehensive education necessary for a career as a clinical psychologist.

This course includes both theoretical and practical knowledge of psychology, including understanding human behaviour, emotional wellness, mental health, and clinical psychology applications.

It provides students with essential skills for working in clinical settings. For those aspiring to become clinical psychologists, this programme offers a seamless pathway to advanced qualifications.

BA MA Eligibility

• Students must secure a minimum of 55 per cent in class 12 with a science background.
• They need to pass the entrance exam of the respective colleges or universities.

Diploma in Psychology

A diploma in clinical psychology is an affordable option for students who wish to explore psychology after 12th. It is not as comprehensive as full-time degree programmes, but it provides a solid foundation in psychological concepts and testing.

This course offers valuable insights into human behaviour and the nature of the mind, which makes it a great starting point for anyone interested in psychology. It is also an excellent choice for those who may not want to pursue a full career in psychology but still desire to gain knowledge in the field.

Additionally, there are various graduate and postgraduate diploma programmes available in specialised areas of psychology. The eligibility and fees for these programmes vary by institute and specialisation.

Eligibility- Students who have passed 10+2 or equivalent with science.

Diploma in Psychology Colleges in India

Here are some of the top colleges for a Diploma in Psychology, along with the fee structure:

Also Read: Courses on Cognitive Psychology to Make Your Mind Sharper

Career Opportunities in Psychology

Psychology offers a wide range of career opportunities in various sectors. With the growing demand for mental health professionals, students completing psychology courses after the 12th can pursue various roles in clinical, research, corporate, and educational settings. Below is a table showcasing popular job roles in psychology along with their average salaries:

Source: AmbitionBox

Pursuing psychology courses after 12th opens up diverse career opportunities. After completing a bachelor's, you can specialise in fields like clinical psychology, counselling, or organisational behaviour. Graduates can work in mental health clinics, schools, hospitals, and more. Clinical psychologists need an M.Phil. and a license from the Rehabilitation Council of India.