MSc in Behavioural Science | MSc in Mental Health Science

M.Sc. Behavioural Health
Sciences

M.Sc. in Behavioural Health Sciences
A Holistic, NEP-Aligned Approach for Future-Ready Professionals

The M.Sc. in Behavioural Health Sciences is a cutting-edge postgraduate program designed to prepare students for impactful careers in the rapidly evolving field of mental and behavioural health. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP), this multidisciplinary programme bridges the gap between traditional psychology degrees and the growing demand for workforce-ready behavioural health professionals.

A Behavioural Health Sciences professional is trained in the scientific study of emotions, behaviours, and biological processes that influence mental well-being, day-to-day functioning, and self-perception. Unlike conventional definitions of "mental health," the term "behavioural health" encompasses a broader and more integrative approach. It includes professionals such as counsellors, behaviour analysts, psychologists, educators, and support workers who provide therapeutic, counselling, and mediation services across individual, familial, and community settings.

This programme is specifically crafted to respond to current challenges in the sector, including social stigma, a fragmented healthcare system, and a shortage of trained professionals. The curriculum focuses on building:

  • Clinical expertise through hands-on training and clinical postings
  • Research capabilities with supervised projects and evidence-based methodologies
  • Practical skills via state-of-the-art simulation and skills labs

Graduates emerge as competent, compassionate, and future-ready professionals equipped to make meaningful contributions in hospitals, schools, corporate wellness programs, NGOs, and policy-making bodies.

Join us in shaping the future of mental and behavioural health—through science, service, and compassion.

Specializations Offered
Health Psychology

Focus: Understanding the psychological factors that influence physical health and well-being.

Why It’s Needed Today: With rising health concerns, including chronic diseases, mental health challenges, and stress-related conditions, health psychology plays a crucial role in promoting wellness, disease prevention, and managing the psychological aspects of illness. Professionals in this field are essential in improving overall public health and supporting individuals in managing health-related behaviours.

Career Opportunities:

  • Health Promotion Specialist
  • Behavioural Health Consultant
  • Public Health Advocate
  • Wellness Coach
  • Other Fields to Explore: Research, academic roles, healthcare administration, or corporate wellness programs.

Counselling Psychology

Focus: Providing therapeutic support to individuals, couples, and groups to improvemental health and well-being

Why It’s Needed Today: In a world where mental health issues are becoming increasingly prevalent, counselling psychologists are essential in offering support for individuals facing depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship difficulties. The demand for mental health services is growing, and this field addresses the urgent need for trained professionals to provide quality care and guidance.

Career Opportunities:

  • Licensed Counselling Psychologist
  • Mental Health Clinician
  • School or College Counsellor
  • Private Practice Therapist
  • Other Fields to Explore: Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), community mental health services, rehabilitation counselling, and advocacy roles.
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
Generic Core Courses
Catalog
Course Code
Course Code Course Title Teaching Scheme ExaminationScheme Total
Theory Credits Practical Credits Total Credits Theory Internal Theory External Practical External
101 Global Behavioural Health 4 0 4 120 80 00 200
102 Neurobiological Foundations of Behavioural Health 2 2 4 60 40 100 200
103 Psychological Theories and Models of Human Behaviour 2 2 4 60 40 100 200
104 Psychosocial Dimensions of Health: Perspectives and Frameworks 4 0 4 120 80 00 200
105 Research Methods in Behavioural Sciences 4 0 4 120 80 00 200
Total 18 2 20 420 280 300 1000
Generic Core Courses
Catalog
Course Code
Course Code Course Title Teaching Scheme Examination Scheme Total
Theory Credits Practical Credits Total Credits Theory Internal Theory External Practical External
201 Clinical Psychopathology 2 2 4 120 80 00 200
202 Clinical Assessment and Interviewing Techniques 2 2 4 120 80 00 200
203 Neuroscience of Behaviour 4 0 4 120 80 00 200
204 Diagnostic and Psycho-Social Functioning Scales 0 4 4 120 0 80 200
205 Internship 0 4 4 120 0 80 200
Total 8 12 20 600 240 160 1000
Specialization in Counselling Psychology
Catalog
Course
Code
Course
Code
Course
Title
Teaching
Scheme
Examination
Scheme
Total
Theory
Credits
Practical
Credits
Total
Credits
Theory
Internal
Theory
External
Practical
External
301 Clinical Practicum 0 8 8 240 0 160 400
302 Counselling and Psychotherapy Techniques 4 0 4 120 80 0 200
303 Areas of Counselling 2 2 4 120 80 0 200
304 Guidance and Career Counselling 4 0 4 120 80 0 200
Total 10 10 20 600 240 160 1000
Specialization in Health Psychology
Catalog
Course
Code
Course
Code
Course
Title
Teaching
Scheme
Examination
Scheme
Total
Theory
Credits
Practical
Credits
Total
Credits
Theory
Internal
Theory
External
Practical
External
301 Clinical Practicum 0 8 8 240 0 160 400
302 Counselling and Psychotherapy Techniques 4 0 4 120 80 0 200
303 Areas of Counselling 2 2 4 120 80 0 200
304 Guidance and Career Counselling 4 0 4 120 80 0 200
Total 10 10 20 600 240 160 1000
Specialization in Counselling Psychology
Catalog Course Code Course Code Course Title Teaching Scheme Examination Scheme Total
Theory Credits Practical Credits Total Credits Theory Internal Theory External Practical External
401 Advanced Statistics 4 0 4 120 80 0 200
402 Research Project/ Dissertation 0 10 10 300 0 200 500
403 Internship 0 6 6 180 0 120 300
Total 4 16 20 600 80 320 1000
Specialization in Health Psychology
Catalog Course Code Course Code Course Title Teaching Scheme Examination Scheme Total
Theory Credits Practical Credits Total Credits Theory Internal Theory External Practical External
401 Advanced Statistics 4 0 4 120 80 0 200
402 Research Project/ Dissertation 0 10 10 300 0 200 500
403 Internship 0 6 6 180 0 120 300
Total 4 16 20 600 80 320 1000
INTAKE

30 Students

M.Sc. in Behavioural Health Sciences Program (2025–2027)
Orientation and Pedagogy

The M.Sc. (Behavioural Health Sciences) is a comprehensive two-year postgraduate program that offers rigorous and immersive training in psychological theories, behavioural principles, and evidence-based practices. The journey begins with a thoughtfully designed induction week, introducing students to the program structure, faculty, and administrative teams. Guest lectures by industry experts, and outbound activities designed to foster peer bonding and team building.

The program’s pedagogy is grounded in experiential, student-centered learning. It combines theoretical instruction with hands-on experiences through practical labs, clinical exposure, and field-based internships. The curriculum is enriched by blended learning strategies such as case analyses, group discussions, role-play simulations, peer-to-peer engagement, and reflective writing. Regular mentorship and constructive feedback ensure the integration of knowledge across academic, research, and clinical domains.

Students may choose to specialize in one of two key areas: Counselling Psychology or Health Psychology. Both areas culminate in a research dissertation and intensive internships to build field-readiness and applied competence.

Spanning four semesters, the program aims to develop ethical, skilled professionals who can contribute meaningfully to integrated health care systems. Graduates are equipped to promote mental well-being, support collaborative care, and enhance patient engagement through effective communication and psychological insight.


Eligibility Criteria

Graduate from any recognised University/ Institution of National Importance with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent grade (45% Marks or equivalent grade for Scheduled Caste / Scheduled Tribes) preferably Graduate in Psychology, Mental Health, Social Sciences, Behavioural Sciences or any related field.

ADMISSION SCHEDULE
Important Dates
Sr.No Description Date
1 Registration begins 10th February, 2025
2 Last date of registration 31th July, 2025
3 Date of Commencement 5th August, 2025
FEE STRUCTURE
Master of Science Behavioural Health Sciences Fees Structure
Installment for Master of Science Behavioural Health Sciences 1st Year (Amount in Rupees) 2nd Year (Amount in Rupees)
1st Installment 2nd Installment 3rd Installment 4th Installment
Academic Fees (Per Annum) 1,50,000 1,50,000 1,50,000 1,50,000
Institute Deposit (Refundable) 20,000 - - -
Total Installment 1,70,000 1,50,000 1,50,000 1,50,000
Last Date of Payment At the time of admission 25-November-2025 25-June-2026 25-November-2026

Eligibility:

Graduate from any recognised University/ Institution of National Importance with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent grade (45% Marks or equivalent grade for Scheduled Caste / Scheduled Tribes) preferably Graduate in Psychology, Mental Health, Social Sciences, Behavioural Sciences or any related field.

Application Procedure

    STEP I:

  • Online registration for M.Sc. Behavioural Health Sciences programme by submitting the form on the link below and making online payment of registration charges of Rs.1500/-
  • STEP II:

  • Submit a Statement of Purpose (SOP) (refer below for instructions) in PDF or Word format ONLY via email within 3 days of submitting the registration form.Mention your Student ID as listed on your registration form in the email with the subject line as " Application for MSc inBehavioural Health Sciences-(Student ID)". The application will be considered incomplete and will be rejected without theSOP. :admissions_bhs@sihs.edu.in STEP
  • STEP III:

  • You will be invited for an online Personal Interview (PI) based on a preliminary screening. The schedule for the same will be intimated via email and phone call.
  • STEP IV:

  • Final selection will be intimated to the candidate through email & phone call. Admission process will be completed after verification of all the submitted documents and payment of 1st instalment of academic fees.

Selection Process

Based on marks in Graduation, a Statement of Purpose (SOP), and Personal Interview.

Statement of purpose:

A statement of purpose is a crucial element of the application process. It creates a first impression with the admission committee and helps us choose which applicants to shortlist for the interview round. Your statement of purpose should not exceed 1000 words (minimum 500 words). Please use the following prompts to guide your statement of purpose:

  • What motivates you to apply to this programme?
  • Describe your strengths and qualities.
  • How will this programme prepare you for the career you wish to opt for?
  • What makes you stand out from other applicants?

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF ADMISSION:

Documents required at the time of Admission:

  • 1.Certificate of passing the qualifying examination (Graduation, 10th & 12th Science)
  • 2. Mark list (Graduation, 10th & 12th Science)
  • 3. Transfer Certificate or Leaving Certificate in original
  • 4. Migration Certificate in original
  • 5. Registration Certificate of respective councils (if applicable)
  • 6. Character Certificate / No Dues Certificate
  • 7. Work Experience / Gap Certificate if applicable
  • 8. Certificate of change of name if applicable, supported by documentary evidence like Government Gazette
  • 9. In addition to the above, candidates selected under the reservation category i.e. Scheduled Caste (SC)/ Scheduled Tribes (ST)/ Kashmiri Migrants admission will be confirmed after scrutiny of the original supporting documents. Please note that original supporting document of the reserved category should be issued by the competent authority.

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Admission for International Students

Symbiosis Centre for International Education (SCIE) handles all subject matters relating to admissions of International Students to the constituent institutes of Symbiosis International (Deemed University).

Kindly visit the link provided below for further assistance: https://scie.ac.in/

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Contact Us

SYMBIOSIS INSTITUTE OF HEALTH SCIENCES

Symbiosis International (Deemed University) Campus Hill Base, Lavale, Pune - 412201,Maharashtra India.

Tel: 020-66975037
Mobile: +91 8669987067
Upcoming Conference
Link .....
https://www.sihs.edu.in/sympsych-2025/index.html
PROGRAMME OUTCOME
  • Provide students with a deep understanding of psychological theories, behavioural principles and evidence-based practices in mental health and behavioural health.
  • Enhance research skills to advance knowledge in mental and behavioural health sciences.
  • Explore strategies for mental health promotion, and prevention.
  • Enhancing client’s compliance and thereby improve treatment outcomes, through psychological counselling in health care sector.
  • Apply the understanding of mind and body connection in the context of physical and mental illness.
  • Application of counselling skills in various settings
  • Enhance the communication between clients and health care professionals.
  • To support the existing framework of mental health professionals for collaborative care in mental health settings

Graduate Attributes
FAQs for MSc

    1) What is the eligibility criteria to apply for M.Sc. BHS programme?

    Graduate from any recognised University/ Institution of National Importance with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent grade (45% Marks or equivalent grade for Scheduled Caste / Scheduled preferably Graduate in Psychology, Mental Health, Behavioural Sciences or any related field.

    2) Does the past academic record is also considered in selection of a candidate?

    Yes, there is a component of academic profile during the selection process which has weightage given to past academic performances.

    3) What is the difference between the Counselling Psychology and Health Psychology specializations?

    The Counselling Psychology specialization focuses on therapeutic approaches, clinical practicum, and career and guidance counselling, preparing students to work directly with individuals and groups facing emotional or psychological challenges. The Health Psychology specialization, on the other hand, centers on understanding how psychological factors influence physical health. It emphasizes behavioural interventions, chronic illness management, and health promotion strategies, often in collaboration with medical teams in healthcare settings.

    4) Is this program recognised by regulatory bodies?

    The program is recognised by UGC and NCAHP Act, 2021.

    5) Are Research opportunities available during the program?

    Yes, students are required to undertake a research dissertation, and are encouraged to participate in faculty led projects, conferences, and research publications.

    6) What are my career prospects after post-graduation?

    Post-Graduates can pursue roles such as Health Psychologist, Counselling Psychologist, Behavioural Therapist, or Research Assistant. The program also prepares students for advanced education in specialized fields of behavioural and mental health sciences.

    7) Does the institute help with getting internships?

    Yes, the institute does help with internships. Some opportunities involve SUHRC hospital facility - Psychiatry ward internship, Child Learning and Development Center (CLDC), Service Learning Course, Collaborations of the department such as Sangath (research NGO in Mental Health) and many more. Additional opportunities are available through various other affiliated organizations and initiatives.

    8) How is this different from Masters in psychology program?

    This M.Sc. program adopts a multidisciplinary, skill-driven curriculum that goes beyond traditional psychology degrees. It emphasizes workforce-ready training, equipping students with clinical expertise, research capabilities, and practical skills essential for modern healthcare environments.

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