A PhD in Psychology with a specialization in Health Psychology and Behavioral Neurosciences focuses on the study of how behavior, cognition, and emotions interact with biological processes to affect physical health and illness. This interdisciplinary field involves the integration of psychology, neuroscience, biology, and medicine to understand the mechanisms underlying health behaviors and the prevention and treatment of illness.
Students pursuing a PhD in Health Psychology and Behavioral Neurosciences will receive training in research methods, statistics, and theories related to health psychology and neuroscience. They will also gain knowledge in biological processes, such as the role of hormones and neurotransmitters in health and illness, and how the brain and nervous system regulate behavior and cognition.
Potential research topics in this field could include investigating the relationship between stress and health outcomes, examining the impact of lifestyle behaviors on chronic disease, exploring the role of genetics in health behaviors and outcomes, or developing and testing interventions to promote health behavior change.
Graduates of a PhD program in Health Psychology and Behavioral Neurosciences can pursue careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, or healthcare organizations. They may work as researchers, professors, consultants, or clinicians, to advance knowledge in the field and improve health outcomes for individuals and communities.
Stream | Doctor of Philosophy |
Course | PhD in Health Psychology |
Full Name | Doctor of Philosophy in Health Psychology |
Eligibility | Master in relevant Subject with 55 % marks |
Duration | 3 Years |
Fees | Notified soon |
Type | Degree |
Mode | Year |
The entrance exam requirements for PhD programs in Health Psychology may vary depending on the university or institution.
Some programs may require the GRE (Graduate Record Examination), while others may have their own entrance exam.
It is best to check the specific requirements for each program before applying.
To be admitted to a PhD program in Health Psychology, candidates typically need to have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in psychology, neuroscience, or a related field.
Some programs may also require applicants to have research experience or clinical experience.
Candidates should also have a strong academic record and research potential.
Eligibility for a Ph.D. in Health Psychology typically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in psychology or a related field, with a strong academic record.
Some programs may also require previous coursework or research experience in psychology, statistics, and research methods.
The duration of a Ph.D. program in Health Psychology can vary but typically takes around five to six years to complete.
The length of the program can depend on factors such as the student's research interests, the nature of their dissertation research, and their progress towards degree completion.
Selection criteria for Ph.D. programs in Health Psychology typically include academic performance, research experience, relevant coursework, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
Admissions committees may also consider factors such as diversity, work experience, and extracurricular activities.
The application form for a Ph.D. in Health Psychology program is typically available online through the institution's website.
Applicants will need to create an account and complete the application form, providing personal information, academic history, and other required information.
Applicants will also need to upload supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
The application process for a Ph.D. in Health Psychology program typically involves the following steps:
The application fee for a Ph.D. in Health Psychology program varies by institution and can range from Notified Soon. |
The syllabus for a Ph.D. in Health Psychology program typically includes coursework in areas such as:
Academic Researcher/Professor: Many PhD graduates in Health Psychology choose to pursue careers in academia, conducting research, publishing scholarly articles, and teaching courses related to health psychology at colleges and universities.
Clinical Health Psychologist: Graduates may work in clinical settings, such as hospitals, clinics, or private practice, providing psychological assessments, interventions, and therapies to individuals coping with health-related issues, chronic illnesses, or disabilities.
Health Behavior Specialist: PhD holders in Health Psychology may work as consultants or researchers in public health organizations, designing and implementing interventions to promote healthy behaviors, prevent diseases, and improve healthcare outcomes.
Health Educator/Program Coordinator: Some graduates work in community health centers, non-profit organizations, or government agencies, developing and implementing health education programs, workshops, and interventions aimed at improving public health and wellness.
Public Health Researcher/Evaluator: Graduates may work in research institutions, government agencies, or non-profit organizations, conducting studies, evaluating health programs, and developing evidence-based strategies to address public health issues such as smoking cessation, obesity prevention, or substance abuse.
Occupational Health Psychologist: PhD holders may work in occupational settings, collaborating with employers to improve workplace safety, employee well-being, and organizational effectiveness through interventions targeting stress management, work-life balance, and job satisfaction.
Health Policy Analyst/Advocate: Some graduates work in policy research organizations, advocacy groups, or government agencies, analyzing health policies, advocating for policy changes, and contributing to the development of public health initiatives at local, national, or international levels.
Healthcare Consultant: PhD holders may work as consultants for healthcare organizations, insurance companies, or pharmaceutical companies, providing expertise on behavioral health issues, patient engagement strategies, and healthcare delivery systems.
Research Scientist/Program Director: Graduates may work in research institutes or think tanks, leading research teams, securing funding, and overseeing research projects focused on topics such as health disparities, health psychology interventions, or health services research.
Healthcare Administrator: Some graduates pursue careers in healthcare administration, managing programs, departments, or organizations focused on mental health services, behavioral health integration, or health promotion within healthcare systems.
Career opportunities for graduates with a Ph.D. in Health Psychology include:
Research Scientist |
Health Psychologist |
Clinical Psychologist |
Health Educator |
Behavioral Health Specialist |
Public Health Researcher |
Health Policy Analyst |
Professor/Teacher |
Some of the top institutions offering a Ph.D. in Health Psychology include:
Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D. Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at the University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for the M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum of 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D. Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in the form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participating in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.