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AIIMS Delhi
- Fees: ₹ 5731
- Exams: INI CET
What is Psychiatry
Psychiatry is a specialised branch of medicine focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental, emotional, and behavioural disorders. It blends medical knowledge with psychological understanding to help individuals manage conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Strong communication skills are crucial for professionals seeking to establish trust with patients.
Psychiatric conditions vary significantly among individuals due to genetic factors, environmental influences, and personal experiences. Treatment may involve counselling, medication, or a combination of therapies. Psychiatry is usually studied at the postgraduate level, where students receive advanced clinical training and theoretical knowledge. Preventive and community psychiatry are also gaining prominence with increasing mental health awareness.
Psychiatry courses in India are primarily offered at the postgraduate level through MD or Diploma programmes, with over 200 medical colleges providing specialisations in this field. To be eligible, candidates must hold an MBBS degree from a recognised university. Admission is usually based on entrance exams like NEET PG or INI CET.
Important Dates: Psychiatry
NEET PG Exam Date- August 03, 2025
Psychiatry: Highlights
Psychiatry is a medical discipline focused on understanding, diagnosing, and treating mental health conditions through therapeutic methods, counselling, and pharmacological interventions. The field merges neuroscience with psychological care, offering career opportunities in hospitals, clinics, academia, and research. Here are some key highlights of the programme:
| Particulars | Values |
|---|---|
Branch Name | Psychiatry |
Degree | MBBS + MD (Psychiatry), Diploma, M.Phil, MSc, PGD, PhD, MD, DM |
Duration | UG: 5.5 years (MBBS) |
Eligibility | UG: 10+2 with PCB subjects |
Admission Process | Entrance Examination and Merit-Based |
Entrance Exam | NEET PG, INI CET |
Average Fees | Rs. 90,000 – Rs. 90 lakhs (varies by institute and degree) |
Job Profiles | Psychiatrist, Clinical Psychiatrist, Mental Health Counsellor, Clinical Psychiatrist, Neuropsychiatrist, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, Forensic Psychiatrist |
Average Salary | Rs. 8 – 12 LPA (based on role and experience) |
Recruiting Companies | AIIMS, NIMHANS, Fortis Healthcare, Max Healthcare, Government Hospitals, NGOs |
Specialisation or Similar Ones
Specialisations and related fields in Psychiatry allow students to explore specific domains of mental health care, allowing for deeper expertise and focused treatment approaches. These options cater to diverse mental health needs across age groups and conditions. Based on their interests and career aspirations, candidates can choose from the following specialisations:
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry | Geriatric Psychiatry |
Forensic Psychiatry | Addiction Psychiatry |
Psychiatric Medicine | Neuropsychiatry |
Emergency Psychiatry | Community Psychiatry |
Top Private Psychiatry Colleges in India
Several private medical institutions in India offer specialised postgraduate courses in Psychiatry, providing high-quality training, clinical exposure, and research opportunities. These colleges are equipped with advanced mental health departments and experienced faculty. Admission is usually based on NEET PG or INI CET scores. Here are some top colleges for the Psychiatry course, along with fees.
| Top Colleges | Fees |
|---|---|
Rs. 76.22 Lakhs | |
Rs. 6.60 Lakhs | |
Rs. 65.34 Lakhs | |
Rs. 5.54 Lakhs | |
Rs. 23.04 Lakhs | |
Rs. 63.75 Lakhs | |
Rs. 63.75 Lakhs | |
Rs. 83.47 Lakhs | |
Rs. 82 50 Lakhs | |
Rs. 75.75 Lakhs |
Note: The fee structure provided above may apply to any specific Psychiatry course (Diploma, Degree).
Top Government Psychiatry Colleges in India
Many government medical colleges in India provide excellent Psychiatry education at affordable fees. These institutions offer strong academic training, clinical practice in public hospitals, and access to national mental health programmes. Admission is highly competitive and based on entrance exams. Here are some top government colleges for the Psychiatry course, along with fees.
| Top Colleges | Fees |
|---|---|
Rs. 57,440 | |
Rs. 29.40 Lakhs | |
Rs. 94,500 | |
Rs. 97,500 | |
Rs. 1.08 Lakhs | |
Rs. 90,000 | |
- | |
Rs. 1 Lakhs | |
Rs. 4.52 Lakhs | |
Rs. 1.56 Lakhs |
Eligibility Criteria (UG & PG) of Psychiatry
To pursue a course in Psychiatry, candidates must satisfy the eligibility criteria outlined by the respective institutions. Typically, students must complete an undergraduate medical degree to apply for postgraduate Psychiatry programmes. Below are the general eligibility requirements for both the UG and PG levels.
Eligibility Criteria for UG Courses
Students aspiring to enter the field of Psychiatry at the undergraduate level must pursue a general MBBS degree first, as there is no specialised psychiatry course directly after 10+2. However, MBBS is the foundational pathway. Some key eligibility conditions for MBBS admissions include:
- Candidates must have completed 10+2 from a recognised board with core science subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
- A minimum aggregate score of 50 per cent is typically required (45 per cent for reserved categories).
- Admission is based on national-level entrance exams.
Top Entrance Exams for UG Courses
To pursue an MBBS degree, candidates must appear for national-level entrance exams that evaluate their knowledge in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. These tests are essential for securing admission to medical colleges across India and serve as the primary selection criteria. Below are the key entrance exams for undergraduate medical programmes.
| Exam Name | Level | Conducting Body | Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
National | National Testing Agency |
Eligibility Criteria for PG Courses
For specialisation in Psychiatry, candidates must hold an MBBS degree from a recognised medical college. Admission to MD in Psychiatry or equivalent courses requires meeting the academic and entrance exam standards set by medical institutions. Common eligibility criteria include:
- A recognised MBBS degree with successful completion of the compulsory internship.
- A minimum of 55 per cent aggregate marks (relaxation may be applicable for reserved categories).
- Registration with the Medical Council of India (MCI) or the respective State Medical Council.
Top Entrance Exams for PG Courses
To gain admission into postgraduate Psychiatry programmes, candidates must qualify in national-level medical entrance exams. These exams assess advanced theoretical knowledge and clinical skills essential for specialisation. Scoring well is crucial for admission into reputed institutions offering MD Psychiatry or related programmes. Below are some major PG entrance exams in India.
| Exam Name | Level | Conducting Body | Exam Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|
National | National Board of Examinations (NBE) | ||
National | AIIMS |
College Predictors VIEW ALL
Scope of Psychiatry in India and Abroad
The scope of psychiatry is growing steadily due to increased mental health awareness and rising cases of psychological disorders. Government initiatives like the National Mental Health Programme and global advocacy by the WHO have expanded psychiatric care access. Psychiatrists are now essential in both urban and rural healthcare systems across India.
Specialisations in psychiatry, such as child psychiatry, neuropsychiatry, and forensic psychiatry, are gaining prominence. Career options extend to rehabilitation centres, academic research, policy-making bodies, and wellness programmes in corporate settings. With mental wellness becoming a health priority, psychiatry professionals can build successful careers in hospitals, NGOs, private practice, and international mental health organisations.
Course Fees Psychiatry
| Minimum Fees | Maximum Fees | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private | Government | Private | Government | |
| UG |
2.12 Lakhs
Other Masters in Psychiatry at Choithram College of Nursing, Indore
|
---
Data not available
|
2.12 Lakhs
Other Masters in Psychiatry at Choithram College of Nursing, Indore
|
---
Data not available
|
| PG |
2.00 Lakhs
M.Sc. in Psychiatry at Rama University, Kanpur
|
4.65 K
M.D. in Psychiatry at All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi
|
1.35 Crores
M.D. in Psychiatry at Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam
|
29.40 Lakhs
M.D. in Psychiatry at Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar
|
| DOCTORAL |
---
Data not available
|
2.11 Lakhs
D.M. in Psychiatry at National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences Bangalore
|
---
Data not available
|
2.11 Lakhs
D.M. in Psychiatry at National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences Bangalore
|
| DIPLOMA |
3.00 Lakhs
M.Sc. in Psychiatry at Peoples University, Bhopal
|
780
Diploma in Psychiatry at Sri Venkateswara Medical College, Tirupati
|
17.10 Lakhs
Diploma in Psychiatry at Sumandeep Vidyapeeth, Waghodia
|
2.65 Lakhs
Diploma in Psychiatry at Topiwala National Medical College and BYL Nair Charitable Hospital, Mumbai
|
Course Subjects
The psychiatry curriculum is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of mental health, behavioural science, and therapeutic practices. At the undergraduate level, psychiatry is taught as a part of the MBBS programme, while postgraduate courses offer specialised training. Below is the syllabus for both the UG and PG levels.
For UG Syllabus
The undergraduate psychiatry syllabus is part of the MBBS curriculum prescribed by the National Medical Commission (NMC). Psychiatry is taught during the clinical phase, typically from semesters 6 to 9. The syllabus includes foundational and clinical subjects designed to help medical students understand and manage various mental health conditions. Here are some of the subjects covered in the MBBS syllabus for the Psychiatry course.
Introduction to Psychiatry | Doctor–Patient Relationship |
Psychopathology | Neurobiology of Mental Disorders |
Mood Disorders | Anxiety and Stress-related Disorders |
Psychotic Disorders | Personality Disorders |
Substance Use Disorders | Child and Adolescent Psychiatry |
Geriatric Psychiatry | Emergency Psychiatry |
Psychopharmacology | Psychotherapies |
Legal and Ethical Issues | Community Psychiatry |
For PG Syllabus
The postgraduate curriculum in psychiatry offers advanced knowledge in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions using homoeopathic principles. It includes subjects such as Psychiatry I & II, Research Methodology, Biostatistics, and Practice of Medicine, along with an in-depth study of fundamental homoeopathy. This syllabus is part of the M.D (Hom.) Psychiatry course from Kerala University.
Part I | Part II |
Psychiatry | Psychiatry I |
Research Methodology & Biostatistics | Psychiatry II |
Advanced teaching of Fundamentals of Homoeopathy | Practice of Medicine |
Careers in Psychiatry
Professionals in Psychiatry work to improve mental well-being by diagnosing, treating, and preventing psychological disorders. Through counselling, therapy, and medication, they help individuals manage conditions such as anxiety, depression, and mood disorders while promoting emotional stability and resilience. The focus remains on restoring mental balance and improving quality of life.
Career opportunities exist in mental health hospitals, psychiatric wards, rehabilitation centres, academic institutions, and private clinics. Psychiatrists, mental health counsellors, clinical psychiatrists, and behavioural therapists collaborate to offer holistic care. Their work plays an important role in destigmatising mental health and advancing the integration of psychological care in general healthcare systems.
Upcoming trends
Emerging trends in psychiatry highlight the integration of technology, personalised care, and broader recognition of mental health as a public health priority. These innovations aim to improve access, accuracy of diagnosis, and the effectiveness of treatment strategies. Below are some of the current developments shaping the future of psychiatry:
- Digital Psychiatry and Telepsychiatry
- AI-Powered Mental Health Assessments
- Integration of Mental Health in Primary Care
- Focus on Trauma-Informed Care
- Use of Virtual Reality in Therapy
- Community-Based Mental Health Interventions
- Neurostimulation Techniques (e.g., TMS, DBS)
- Personalised Psychiatry and Genomic Testing
Job Profiles and Top Recruiters
Job roles in psychiatry offer various opportunities across clinical, research, educational, and therapeutic settings. Professionals can specialise in treating various age groups, mental disorders, or legal aspects of mental health. These roles require strong analytical skills, empathy, and medical expertise. Here are some of the prominent job roles in this field.
| Job Profiles | Description |
|---|---|
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. They prescribe medications, provide psychotherapy, and help patients manage emotional and behavioural issues. | |
Neuropsychiatrists | Neuropsychiatrists deal with disorders that affect both the brain and mental functions, such as epilepsy and dementia. They apply both neurological and psychiatric approaches to treat patients with complex neurological and behavioural symptoms. |
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists | Child and adolescent psychiatrists specialise in diagnosing and managing psychiatric disorders in children and teenagers. They help young individuals cope with emotional, developmental, and behavioural issues. |
Forensic Psychiatrists | Forensic psychiatrists work at the intersection of law and mental health, assessing individuals involved in legal matters. They provide expert opinions on criminal responsibility, competency, and risk assessments. |
Clinical Psychiatrists | Clinical psychiatrists treat a wide range of mental health disorders in clinical or hospital settings. They work closely with other healthcare professionals to develop personalised treatment plans. |
Mental Health Counsellor | Mental Health Counsellors provide emotional support and therapeutic guidance to individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or trauma. They use talk therapy techniques to help clients understand their feelings, develop coping strategies, and improve their overall mental well-being. |
Top Recruiters
- AIIMS
- NIMHANS
- Fortis Healthcare
- Max Healthcare
- Government Hospitals
- NGOs
- Apollo Hospitals
Average Salary
The average salary in the field of psychiatry depends on several factors such as experience level, location, and type of healthcare institution. Professionals working in metropolitan cities or private hospitals tend to earn higher packages. With growing awareness around mental health, salary prospects continue to improve across clinical and research settings.
| Job Profiles | Average Salary (LPA) |
|---|---|
Psychiatrists | Rs. 10 LPA |
Neuropsychiatrists | Rs. 4 LPA |
Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists | Rs. 15.9 LPA |
Forensic Psychiatrists | Rs. 3.6 LPA |
Clinical Psychiatrists | Rs. 2.2 LPA |
Mental Health Counsellor | Rs. 3 LPA |
Source: AmbitionBox, Salary Expert
Required Skillset for Psychiatry
To succeed in the field of psychiatry, candidates must possess a combination of clinical expertise, emotional intelligence, and strong communication abilities. These skills enable psychiatrists to assess complex mental health issues, offer effective treatments, and build trust with patients. Below are some of the key skills essential for a psychiatry career:
- In-depth Medical and Psychological Knowledge
- Diagnostic and Clinical Evaluation Skills
- Active Listening and Empathy
- Communication and Counselling Abilities
- Crisis Management and Emotional Resilience
- Familiarity with Psychiatric Medications and Therapies
- Research and Analytical Skills
- Ethical and Confidential Practice
- Interpersonal and Team Collaboration Skills
Course Curriculum for Psychiatry
The Psychiatry curriculum is structured to provide students with a deep understanding of mental health, human behaviour, and the neurological basis of psychiatric disorders. It combines core medical sciences with clinical training, emphasising the diagnosis, management, and prevention of mental illnesses. Students are introduced to both theoretical foundations and hands-on practice through hospital-based learning. Below are some of the key subjects covered in the Psychiatry course structure:
- Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Neuroanatomy and Neurobiology
- Psychopathology
- Behavioural Science and Neuroscience
- Social and Community Psychiatry
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
- Forensic Psychiatry
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Mood and Personality Disorders
- Psychopharmacology
- Counselling and Psychotherapy
- Clinical Psychiatry and Case Studies
Popular Psychiatry Entrance Exams in India
Popular Psychiatry Colleges in India VIEW ALL
CMC Vellore
- Exams: NEET PG
St Johns Medical College, Bangalore
- Fees: ₹ 3376020
- Exams: NEET PG
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KMC Mangalore
- Fees: ₹ 6534000
- Exams: NEET PG
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question: Is talk therapy advantageous?
Answer :
Of course, yes. Talking and opening up to someone is the best remedy for stress relief and has the power to cure serious problems like depression and anxiety. Both depression and anxiety are fatal if not taken care of. Thus, telling someone about your fear, insecurities, stress-causing facts and also your weaknesses will help you overcome your mental illness and also acts as a medicine for your disease.
Question: What questions should I ask about my treatment and medication to my psychiatrist?
Answer :
· Is it safe to consume alcoholic beverages while on medications?
· What if I miss a dose of my medication during treatment?
· Is there any side effect of any of the given medications?
· What is the generic name of the medication and what does it do?
· What if I experience an emergency?
· What if I run out of medications?
· Is the same formula available in different names?
· What if I experience other disorders?
Question: Do psychiatrists treat only serious mental health problems?
Answer :
No. Psychiatrists undertake treatment and diagnosis of a varied range of patients including hallucinating patients, maniacs, delusion affected individuals and illness resulting in irregular functioning of the central nervous system.
Question: Are the medications used by the psychiatrist all narcotics and addictive?
Answer :
Although the medications used in treatment during a psychiatric process includes narcotics which act on the CNS, they are majorly used in combination with other non-narcotic drugs to ensure the drug delivery and its effects.
Question: Can other doctors also treat psychiatric disorders?
Answer :
Though general doctors also possess MBBS a psychiatrist specializes in the mental state of an individual. Therefore, when in the case of a psychiatric disorder one should consider consulting a psychiatrist.
Question: What is the difference between a Psychologist and a Psychotherapist?
Answer :
A Psychiatrist is a doctor who interviews the patients to specify the possible mental disorder. Whereas psychotherapists are the ones who generally do not possess a medical degree.
Questions related to Psychiatry
Showing 155 out of 155 Questions
16 Views
my rank is 47716 general category what are chances of Psychiatry MD/DNB/deemed University in order of preference
28th Aug, 2024
With a rank of 47,716 in the general category, securing an MD or DNB seat in Psychiatry can be challenging but not impossible. Here's a breakdown of your chances based on different types of institutions:
-
MD Psychiatry in Government Colleges: Government medical colleges are highly competitive, especially for in-demand specializations like Psychiatry. With your rank, the chances of securing an MD seat in Psychiatry at a government college are relatively low unless there are significant variations in cutoffs or you apply in states with less competition.
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DNB Psychiatry: DNB (Diplomate of National Board) courses are offered by various hospitals across India. DNB Psychiatry might be a more accessible option with your rank compared to MD. DNB seats generally have slightly lower cutoffs than MD, and with careful selection of hospitals, you might secure a seat.
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Deemed Universities: Deemed universities often have higher tuition fees but may offer better chances of admission with your rank. Some deemed universities might have Psychiatry seats available, especially in the later rounds of counseling. However, the exact availability can vary widely, and you may need to be flexible regarding location and fees.
In summary, while government MD Psychiatry seats may be difficult to secure, you have better chances with DNB Psychiatry or in deemed universities, particularly if you're open to exploring different options and locations.
Answer later 24 Views
my rank is 47716 general quota what arr chances of getting psychiatry DNB or MD or deemed university
28th Aug, 2024
With a rank of 47,716 in the general quota, getting a seat in Psychiatry for DNB, MD, or at a deemed university might be challenging, but it’s not entirely out of the question. Here’s a general overview of your chances:
1. **DNB Psychiatry**: The Diplomate of National Board (DNB) courses are often competitive, and higher ranks might struggle to secure a seat in popular specializations like Psychiatry. However, some private or less sought-after institutions might have openings. It’s crucial to check the specific cut-off ranks for DNB Psychiatry in previous years for better insights.
2. **MD Psychiatry**: For MD (Doctor of Medicine) in Psychiatry, government medical colleges usually have stricter cut-offs. With a rank of 47,716, getting a seat in government colleges is unlikely. However, private medical colleges and deemed universities might have higher cut-off ranks, so it’s worth exploring these options.
3. **Deemed Universities**: Deemed universities might offer more opportunities as they have their own admission criteria and higher cut-offs. Check the specific deemed universities' previous cut-off ranks for Psychiatry and apply accordingly.
**Suggestions**:
- **Research Institutions**: Investigate the cut-offs for various institutions and be prepared to consider options in private or deemed universities.
- **Counseling and Upgradation**: Participate in counseling processes and keep an eye on seat availability during subsequent rounds.
Keep a flexible approach and explore all possible avenues to maximize your chances of securing a seat.
25 Views
Hello there. I got AIR 123601. Can I get MD psychiatry in government college for the OBC category?
29th Aug, 2024
Hello!
Thank you for reaching out. With an AIR of 123,601, it's quite challenging to secure an MD in Psychiatry at a government college, especially within the OBC category, as the competition is quite high. Admission to government medical colleges for MD programs is generally based on higher ranks, but it can vary depending on the state and the specific college.
I would recommend checking the specific cutoff ranks for the government colleges you are interested in for the OBC category, as this will give you a clearer idea of your chances. Additionally, consider exploring other colleges and states where the cutoff might be more within reach.
If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!
9 Views
what are the eligibility criteria for diploma in psychiatry in bjmc ahmedabad?
24th Aug, 2024
Hello there,
The eligibility criteria for pursuing a Diploma in Psychiatry Medicine in B.J Medical College, Ahmedabad is to have a passing certificate of MBBS Degree, along with one-year of experience, and a provisional registration certificate of MBBS qualification issued by NMC or State Medical Council.
To know more, kindly click on the given link.
All the best.
32 Views
Hello, I have got 18k rank in Neet pg 2024. Which government college I can get if I would like it in GENERAL surgery /ophthalmology /psychiatry?
24th Aug, 2024
Hello aspirant,
Your rank is a very decent one that can get you into a government college. Every specialisation have different opening and closing rank. On the basis of the former statement, General Surgery usually have very low opening ranks, and closing ranks can go upto 20,000. So, you will have to wait a little bit. To know more about cutoffs of your favoured specialisation in various government colleges, kindly go through the given link.
https://medicine.careers360.com/articles/neet-pg-cut-off
I hope you will do good.
