RCI Announces New MA in Clinical Psychology Program: What You Need to Know

On August 29, the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) released a public notice introducing a new MA in Clinical Psychology program. However, this announcement has left many students feeling more confused than ever. Let’s break down RCI’s new guidelines in simple terms.

What Does the New RCI Guideline Say?

Its notification also stated its introduction of a 2-year Master's in Clinical Psychology course from the 2025-26 academic year. The course would be RCI recognized, and institutions offering this course will require institute-wise approval from RCI.

As soon as they complete this 2-year course, students would become eligible to have themselves registered with the Central Rehabilitation Register (CRR) or register themselves for a license from RCI to practice as a Clinical Psychologist.

Eligibility Criteria for RCI MA in Clinical Psychology

According to the notice, students must complete a 4-year undergraduate program from a UGC-recognized university. The final year of the program should include practical training or research in clinical psychology. For students with a 3-year undergraduate degree in psychology, RCI suggests offering bridge courses, allowing them to meet the eligibility criteria for the MA Clinical Psychology program.

What About the M.Phil in Clinical Psychology?

One big question on students' minds is whether the M.Phil in Clinical Psychology will still be available in 2024 and 2025.

A public notice related to this does not specifically speak to the M. Phil program. Notably, however, RCI and UGC earlier notices were published stating that the M.Phil in Clinical Psychology would be allowed to run at least until the 2025-26 session. The MA Clinical Psychology course does not currently exist at any Indian institution, so there will presumably be a transitional period before full implementation.

Meanwhile, those completing or at the final year of their master's in psychology intake are encouraged to join the 2025 intake of the M. Phil Clinical Psychology program.

Other RCI-Approved Options

For students looking for alternative routes to obtaining an RCI license, programs such as PDCP and PsyD in Clinical Psychology remain viable options.

This simplified breakdown should help clarify the new RCI guidelines and options available to psychology students in the coming years.