PsyD or PhD: Which Is Right for Me? Get complete details here!
The idea of pursuing a PhD degree must have crossed the mind of every psychology student at least once. After all, a PhD is known as one of the highest academic degrees in any subject including Psychology. But, do you know which doctorate degree in Psychology is best suited for you?
Yes, we have two type of doctorate degrees in Psychology, a PhD in Psychology and a PsyD. So, if you are also planning to pursue a doctorate in psychology but confused between a PhD and a PsyD, You’re not alone.
Many psychology students in India face the same difficulty while choosing PhD or a PsyD. In fact, many aspirants aren’t even aware that a PsyD program exists here!
This article will help take an informed decision If you’re searching for admission into a doctorate degree that right fit for your career goals; teaching and research, or direct clinical work.
Here, we tried summarising everything you need to know about both these doctoral degrees, including their meaning, differences, benefits, admission process in India, and career opportunities.
What Is a PhD in Psychology?
A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) degree in Psychology is mainly a research-focused program available in fulltime and part-time modes. Students who pursue a PhD degree, are trained to become researchers, academicians, or experts in theoretical areas of psychology. They can conduct independent research and write a thesis that contributes new knowledge to the field of Psychology and mental health well-being.
A candidate choosing this PhD degree is generally interested in:
- Teaching at colleges or universities
- Working in research organizations
- Developing psychological tools or assessments
- Writing academic papers or books
- To work as counsellor or psychologist.
Note: Students can not get an RCI licence on the basis of their PhD degree in Psychology.
What Is a PsyD in Clinical Psychology?
The PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) is a full time regular professional doctorate degree that focuses on clinical training and applied psychology. It prepares students in direct clinical work through therapy, assessments, and mental health interventions.
In India, the PsyD is a relatively new program and is recognized by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI). This means that trainees who complete an RCI-approved PsyD program are eligible to register as a Clinical Psychologist, which is a licensed mental health profession in India.
Read More: How to Become a Counselling Psychologist?
Major Differences Between PsyD and PhD
| Criteria | PsyD (Doctor of Psychology) | PhD (Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology) |
| Focus | Clinical practice and mental health services | Academic research, theory, and teaching |
| Recognition | Recognized by RCI (license to practice as Clinical Psychologist) | Not recognized by RCI for clinical practice |
| Research Component | Practice-based dissertation or project | Original and in-depth research thesis |
| Career Path | Clinical psychologist, therapist, practitioner | Researcher, professor, academician |
| Admission | Entrance exam + Interview by the university | NET/JRF (preferred) + Proposal + Interview |
| Duration | 4 years full-time | Typically, 3–6 years |
| Institutes in India | Limited private universities with RCI approval | Central, State, and Private Universities |
Admission Process for PsyD Clinical Psychology
You must have a Master’s degree in Psychology/Clinical Psychology/Applied Psychology or equivalent.
- Entrance test followed by interview
- The college/university must be RCI-approved.
Indian universities offering PsyD (RCI-approved):
- Amity University (Noida)
- Amity University (Jaipur)
- Sweekaar Institute (Secunderabad)
By the end of 2026, some more RCI-recognized institutions will offer the PsyD program.
Admission to PhD in Psychology in India
- Requires a Master’s degree in Psychology with minimum 55%
- Most universities prefer UGC-NET or JRF qualification.
- Candidates must submit a Statement of Purpose (SOP) and/or Research Proposal.
- Selection is based on a written test (For those without NET JRF), interview, and academic record.
Popular universities for PhD in Psychology:
- University of Delhi
- Jamia Millia Islamia
- Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS)
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
- University of Calcutta, and others
Click here to see the list of universities offer PhD in Psychology
What Are the Career Options After Each Degree?
Career Opportunities After PsyD
- Licensed Clinical Psychologist (as per RCI norms)
- Work in hospitals, psychiatric units, and mental health centers
- Independent clinical practice or private therapy setup
- Scope to work abroad (subject to meeting licensing requirements of the country)
- Can supervise clinical training courses.
Career Opportunities After PhD
- Assistant Professor or Professor in universities/colleges
- Researcher in institutions like ICSSR, ICMR, NIMHANS, etc.
- Government, NGO, or international agency projects
- Development of psychological tools and assessments
- Authoring academic books or publishing in journals
Both PsyD and PhD are prestigious and rigorous doctoral degrees in psychology, but they serve different purposes. In India, if your aim is clinical practice with a doctoral degree, PsyD is the right path. If your goal is academia and research, PhD is the better option.
Need help preparing for PsyD or PhD Psychology entrances in India?
Check out entrance prep courses by UPS Education (An place for excel in various psychology entrances), click here to visit website.
