GD Goenka University launches RCI Recognised Clinical Psychology programmes in   collaboration with Fortis Healthcare

Gurugram, 12th July 2025: GD Goenka University, in collaboration with Fortis Healthcare, has introduced a comprehensive suite of Clinical Psychology programmes under its School of Liberal Arts. These include the two-year, full-time MA Clinical Psychology (conditionally approved by the Rehabilitation Council of India), as well as the Professional Diploma in Clinical Psychology (PDCP) and B.Sc. (Hons.) Clinical Psychology - both subject to RCI approval. The programmes are designed to blend rigorous academic training with structured clinical exposure, aimed at nurturing the next generation of competent and compassionate mental health clinical professionals. These programmes are aimed to address the dire need of mental health professionals in India. According to the Indian Journal of Psychiatry India, there are only 0.7 mental health professionals for every 100,000 people in India.

Structured in line with guidelines of the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI), these programmes will equip students with the essential skills to thrive in diverse and evolving mental healthcare settings. Fortis Healthcare, a leading tertiary care provider will serve as the clinical training partner. Students will receive hands-on learning and practical experience through Fortis' hospitals’ mental health units, gaining exposure to real-life psychological assessment, therapeutic interventions, and multidisciplinary clinical care.

“We are delighted to launch the Clinical Psychology programmes at GD Goenka University. This initiative reflects our commitment to advancing excellence in mental health education. By offering a curriculum that integrates academic depth with real-world clinical practice, we aim to develop professionals who are empathetic, ethical and well-prepared to contribute to mental health wellbeing globally,” said Mr. Nipun Goenka, Managing Director of GD Goenka Group.

Dr. Anjali Midha, Dean, School of Liberal Arts, GD Goenka University, emphasised the growing demand for qualified mental health professionals. “Our collaboration with Fortis Healthcare is a timely and important step in addressing the increasing psychological support needs in India. These programmes will ensure students not only understand the theory behind Clinical Psychology programmes but are also capable of applying theoretical knowledge in practical, clinical environments. We recognise the critical importance of mental health in today’s world, and are committed to preparing our students with the right knowledge, skills, and values to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives and society at large,” said Dr. Midha.

The MA Clinical Psychology programme is spread across 2 years and includes comprehensive coursework in psychopathology, psychological assessments, therapeutic techniques, and clinical case handling. To be eligible for admission, applicants must have completed a four-year BA / B.Sc. degree in Psychology with a minimum of 55% aggregate marks from a UGC-recognised university. Candidates with a three-year degree must have completed a bridge course or the first year of an MA/MSc Psychology with a minimum of 55% marks. The selection process is based on an entrance test (70%) followed by a personal interview (30%). Graduates will be equipped to pursue roles such as Clinical Psychologist (with RCI registration), Mental Health Consultant, Researcher, Academician, and Rehabilitation Specialist, or pursue higher specialisations such as PsyD.

The Professional Diploma in Clinical Psychology (PDCP), subject to RCI approval, is a one-year intensive programme designed to provide advanced clinical training to postgraduates. Applicants must hold an MA/MSc in Psychology (Clinical, Counselling, or Applied) with at least 55% marks from a UGC-recognised university. Admission will be granted based on the entrance test, practical exam, group discussion and personal interview. Upon completion, students will be eligible to work as Associate Clinical Psychologists under supervision in hospitals and mental health centres, as mental health practitioners in community or school settings, or as counsellors in rehabilitation facilities.

The BSc (Hons) Clinical Psychology programme, also subject to RCI approval, is a four-year undergraduate degree that provides foundational knowledge in psychology along with early clinical exposure. To be eligible, applicants must have completed 10+2 with science stream or its equivalent from a recognised board. The selection process includes an entrance test (70%) and a personal interview (30%). Graduates of the programme can pursue careers as Clinical Assistants, Mental Health Coordinators in community programs, Psycho-social Support Workers in crisis intervention or disaster relief, assistant in assessments or research.

With the academic leadership of GD Goenka University and the clinical excellence of Fortis Healthcare, these Clinical Psychology programmes are poised to produce future-ready professionals who are equipped to raise the standard of mental health care across clinical, community, and academic settings.