Reaccredited by NAAC,
Awarded ‘A+’ Grade
Reaccredited by NAAC, Awarded ‘A+’ Grade
The Department of Psychology at SNDT Churchgate is a large and dynamic Post graduate Department offering Masters and Doctoral programs in Counseling, Clinical and Industrial Psychology. We cater to a large student strength from Mumbai as well as various parts of the country. The program offered consists predominantly of hands on training in various professional domains of psychology, along with creation of a strong base in Psychological theory and Research methodology in Psychology.
In order to be eligible for these Masters programs the minimum requirement is an entire Psychology Bachelor’s degree with practicals component.
The teaching in this Department is multi-method, including a wide range of techniques ranging from lectures to caselets, case presentations, simulations, live field based cases and discussions, mock interviews, GDs, career exhibitions, workshops, and assignments, including open book exams. The research component too is demanding but readies the student for professional writing for publishing and presentations in their chosen field.
The faculty also conducts remedial sessions, sessions where students more comfortable with languages other than English are accommodated and trained, although the medium of instruction is English.
Research
Our Masters program in Psychology has a very strong research component, part of the 80 credits earned. This component carries 200 marks and involves completion of an empirical data based Dissertation which is evaluated by external experts.
Job placements
Typically, students are absorbed into the fabric of professional psychology in the city and surround through campus placement, networking by faculty with various NGO, GOs, corporates and research organizations where students who pass out of the Department can be absorbed. The Department also runs an Annual flagship program called Campus to career where there is a day-long interaction of Psychologists and potential employers from various work settings with our students of MA II, who will soon join the world of work.
Evaluation
Comprises of 50% internal assessment and 50% external examinations, which ensures continuous assessment and involvement of the student all through the year, with a high level of motivation to perform. The internal assessments vary from written assignments, Open book tests and reviews of recent medicolegal developments in the field of mental health, to creation of modules for awareness building, streetplays and posters, as well as public awareness programs. Students are trained as master trainers on various fields ranging from cyber safety to addiction prevention as part of the curriculum.
To equip students to understand and analyse literature and creative process of art.
To achieve excellence and quality in academic field.
To create researched knowledge in psychology and its applications to enrich the subject.
Promote professional practice skills, knowledge and research in Clinical, industrial and counseling settings through teaching, research and service.
The Department of Psychology, SNDT WU, Mumbai in collaboration with the Department of Education, University of British Columbia, Canada was granted the Shastri Institutional Collaboration Research Grant (SICRG) for “Knowledge Mobilization: Expanding Cross-Cultural Conversations about Mental health and illness”. A consultancy project Nautics, in the area of psychometric tool development with Stairwell Ventures, a startup in the recruitment and talent management space.
The Department is also partnering with the Mumbai High Court in a Pre-Litigation Counselling project called “Let’s Talk”. This project is funded by the Maharashtra State Legal Services.
The Department has completed a project (2018-2020) with International Rotary for a project on Addiction prevention. This Global Grant Project (GG1748107) will help train Counsellors in the area of addiction prevention, covering both Substance and Non-Substance addictions.
1. The Industrial / organizational psychology students are placed at an ever expanding list of prime companies including Aditya Birla group of companies, Tata Power, Larsen and Toubro, and Mahindra among many others.
2. Clinical Psychology students are placed at major hospitals including KEM hospital, BYL Nair hospital, Lokmanya Tilak hospital at Sion andJJ group of hospitals.
3. The Counseling Psychology students are placed at well-reputed counseling centers and organizations like Red Boys Foundation, Mindwellness Centre, Aaji Care, Open Your Arms Foundation, Disha Counseling Centre etc.
The annual feature of the Department is the Placement process conducted either on-campus. This helps the students connect and truly understand their future work environment and expectations. Several campus interviews are held every year and students get placed even before their results are declared. So far we have held campus interviews for Aditya Birla, Godrej, Akanksha Foundation, ARPAN, Budhrani Trust, Mann Talks-Telecounseling firm etc.
The students of MA Industrial/Organizational Psychology at the Department Churchgate publish an annual Placement Brochure, which is distributed among potential employers for their better understanding of the student roster and Department activities.
We are happy to share that the University Department of Psychology, Mumbai has been consistently providing Placement and Internship opportunities for all 3 specializations:
Industrial Psychology students are placed in Indian Conglomerates / MNCs / Reputed Organizations where they get to work with HR Professionals and Industry experts as well as to learn and contribute to various management projects. Students also acquire knowledge and skills required for management and psychometric assessment required in organizations. They learn to interpret organizational and employee situations, learning styles, leadership styles etc.
Clinical Psychology students intern in well-reputed Government Hospitals wherein they will get exposure to different kinds of Cases and learn from experienced mental health professionals like Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Special Educators, Psychiatric Nurses etc. They will also get to observe the functioning of a clinical set-up as well as different Treatment methodologies like ECT, In-patient & Outpatient facilities, Psychopharmacology etc.
Counselling Psychology students are placed in established Organizations/ Centers / Institutes where the focus is to equip students with Counseling skills, and therapeutic modalities by exposing them to specific cases and mental health conditions in varied populations and settings. They will benefit from discussions and observations of Experienced Counselors and Counseling Psychologists working in the field.
Every year, all students across all 3 specializations have been placed as interns in these set-ups. The Department has also consistently been successful in providing campus placements to a large number of students from all specializations. The Department has always given equal exposure and opportunity to every student and each year the number of placements has been increasing.
Guidelines for Admissions of MA. In Psychology
The University Department of Psychology at Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey Women’s University, Mumbai, was established in 1984 and has since gained a long-standing reputation in the field of Psychology. The department consistently receives more applications than available seats, with a selective admissions process based solely on merit, creating a strong demand for its programs.
The department offers a full-time, 2-years Master of Arts (M.A.) program with three specializations:
Industrial/Organizational Psychology : Students specializing in Industrial/Organizational Psychology are placed at renowned companies such as Aditya Birla Group, Tata Power, Larsen and Toubro, and Mahindra & Mahindra, among others.
Clinical Psychology : Graduates of Clinical Psychology are placed in prominent hospitals including KEM Hospital, BYL Nair Hospital, Lokmanya Tilak Hospital (Sion), and the Sir JJ Group of Hospitals.
Counseling Psychology : Students specializing in Counselling Psychology are placed at esteemed counselling centers and organizations such as Red Boys Foundation, Mindwellness Centre, Aaji Care, Open Your Arms Foundation, and Disha Counselling Centre.
The annual feature of the Department is the Placement process, conducted either on-campus or off-campus. This helps students connect with potential employers and gain a true understanding of their future work environment and expectations. Several campus interviews are held each year, enabling students to secure placements even before their results are declared. Notable companies and organizations, such as Aditya Birla, Godrej, Akanksha Foundation, Mahindra & Mahindra, TATA Power, ARPAN, Budhrani Trust, and Mann Talks (Tele-counselling firm) and many more have participated in campus interviews.
A Placement Brochure for Industrial/Organizational Psychology is published annually by the Department of Psychology. This brochure, distributed among potential employers, provides a comprehensive overview of the student roster, departmental activities, and successful student placements. It helps employers better understand the qualifications and capabilities of students from the Department.
Throughout the course, students acquire specialized knowledge, combining theoretical foundations with practical applications in their respective fields. The Department consists of qualified and experienced faculty members who are dedicated to imparting skill-based and experiential learning as part of the regular curriculum. Additionally, experienced trainers, professionals from the field, and alumni are regularly invited to share their expertise with the students.
In addition to their academic pursuits, students actively engage in a wide range of extracurricular activities outside the classroom. These include workshops, seminars, webinars, and various festivals. One of the key annual events is the celebration of Mental Health Day, which highlights the importance of well-being. The department also publishes its own magazine, Cognisoul, a yearly initiative that showcases student creativity and intellectual contributions. Additionally, the Educational Fest, Cognitive Carnival, is a major highlight, where students set up stalls and organize fun activities, providing an interactive and festive atmosphere for the community. Students also participate in the Outbound Leadership Training Programme, which offers hands-on experiences to develop leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in a dynamic and engaging environment.
The Department provides students with internship opportunities in well-reputed organizations, hospitals, clinics, and other institutions. These internships offer real-world experience and help prepare students for placement after completing the course. Furthermore, the Department works to ensure placement opportunities for students across all the three specializations.
Admission Process
Stay Informed: Please regularly check the University website (sndt.ac.in / https://sndt.digitaluniversity.ac) for official dates and details regarding the admission procedure. Applications for this academic year are anticipated to begin around mid-June.
Online Application: Apply online by clicking on the provided link (sndt.ac.in / https://sndt.digitaluniversity.ac).
Submission of Documents: After completing the online form and selecting the Department of Psychology, Churchgate as your preferred first choice (please do not apply here if you have applied elsewhere in a college affiliated with SNDT Women’s University), print a copy of the form. Attach the following documents and submit them to the Department Office:
Xerox copies of final year B.A. marksheets (semesters 5 & 6)
Caste Certificates (if applicable)
Any other relevant documents
Eligibility and Google Form: Eligible candidates will receive a Google Form link via the email address provided in their application. It is essential to complete this form accurately, as any errors may lead to the rejection of your application. Please ensure that your Email ID is correct, as all further communications will be sent to this address.
Outstation Candidates: Admission for outstation candidates will follow the guidelines established by the Government of Maharashtra, and a limited number of seats are available.
Merit List and Notification: The merit list will be published, and selected candidates will be notified by phone and email. This notification will include instructions for document verification and further process of admission.
Document Verification: Selected candidates must attend document verification in person at the Department of Psychology, Churchgate, accompanied by one of their parents to complete the admission process. Bring the following documents: Your online application form & Original marksheets and Caste certificates (if applicable)
Fee Payment: Following successful document verification, candidates will pay the required fees with the administrative clerk.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for admission, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Only candidates who have completed Graduation in Psychology, Final Year B.A with all 6 papers of Psychology in Semester 5 and 6. OR 32 credits of Psychology which should include 4 credits of Practicals (Practicum journal will have to be given as proof of completion, if & when required)
Graduate in Psychology from this university or any other recognised University. Students from other subjects should have completed 8 courses of 4 credits each with at least one practical course of 4 credits at graduation.
Applicants who have graduated or completed diploma in any other subject will not be considered for admission
Important Notes :
FAQ – Admissions and General Information
Q1. How will the Admission procedure take place?
Ans: Apply online through the University website https://sndt.samarth.ac.in and refer to the admission process explained above.
Q2. What are the dates of the Admission Process for Academic year 2025-2027?
Ans: Dates will be posted on the website around mid or last week of June.
Q3. Is this a college department or University Department?
Ans: University Department of Psychology, Churchgate, Mumbai, at SNDT Women’s University, Churchgate Campus.
Q4. Is it a full-time course?
Ans: Yes, it is OFFLINE- a full time, in person-2 year Master Degree course. Attendance is mandatory and a defaulter’s list will be displayed for those who fail to meet the attendance criteria.
Q5. When will the semester begin?
Ans. Semester 1 and 3 begins tentatively begins around mid July or first week of August Semester 2 and 4 begins mid December and first week of February, respectively.
Q6. Will the admissions be offline or online?
Ans: The application form has to be filled online and the remaining admission procedure will be offline.
Q7. Will the classes be held offline or online?
Ans: The classes will be held offline, in-person and on-campus only.
Q8. Medium of instruction for M.A. Psychology?
Ans: English
Q9. Do we offer B.A./ B.S.c in Psychology?
Ans: No, this is a Postgraduate Department for M.A. in Psychology.
Q10. Does the Department offer PhD?
Ans: Yes, you can visit the PhD section on the University Website.
Course Details & Specialization
Q11. What are the subjects offered for the Masters programme?
Ans: Refer to the M.A. in Psychology syllabus: [https://sndt.ac.in/programmes/master-degree-courses/ma-in-psychology]
Q12. How many seats for M.A. first year for Psychology?
Ans: There are 80 seats for M.A. first year for Psychology.
Q13. How many seats for Industrial Psychology / Clinical Psychology / Counseling Psychology?
Industrial Psychology: 25 seats
Clinical Psychology: 25 seats
Counseling Psychology: 30 seats
Q14. Can you switch your specialization after taking admission?
Ans: Specialization is determined at the time of admission based on merit.
Q15. Is the M.A. course hectic?
Ans: The MA. Psychology (regardless of the specialization) is challenging, however with effective time management and consistent efforts one can successfully complete the course. Guidance and support by HOD and faculty members and HOD to the students to help them excel.
Q16. Is there any attendance criteria for students?
Ans: 80% attendance is mandatory for the students.
Fee Details: The approximate fee range for M.A. in Psychology is Rs. 19000 – 35000 /-
Eligibility Criteria
Q17. What is the eligibility criteria for M.A. PART I ?
Ans: Graduation in Psychology from SNDT Women’s University or any other recognized University (32 credits in psychology with practical subject).
Q. 18. What is the eligibility criteria for M.A. PART II ?
The applicant must be a student from this University.
The applicant must have cleared first year in the same subject or passed with admissible ATKT.
Q19. I have a gap after completing a Graduation in Psychology, can I still apply for masters?
Ans: Yes, if you have completed a graduation with all six papers of Psychology (Including one practical paper). The candidate needs to submit a gap certificate if selected.
Q20. I have completed graduation in another subject / I have completed graduation with 3 papers of psychology and 3 papers of other subjects. Am I eligible for a Masters in Psychology programme?
Ans: No, the course requires Graduation in Psychology from SNDT Women’s University or any other recognized University (32 credits in psychology with practical subject).
Admission Process:
Q21. What is the Cut off for admissions?
Ans: Cut-off varies yearly and is very competitive.
Generally:
Clinical Psychology: 90%
Industrial Psychology: 90%
Counseling Psychology: 85%
Q22. Are there interviews or entrance exams conducted?
Ans: The University Department of Psychology does not conduct any enterance exams. Admission is strictly merit based.
Q23. When will the 1st/2nd/3rd merit list be put up?
Ans: Dates depend on the admission process pace. Selected candidates will be notified by email and call. They must report in-person with one parent for the admission process.
Q24. What documents are to be submitted for the admission procedure?
Online application printout
Marksheet of HSC Board examination
Marksheet copies of B.A (all 6 semesters)
Passing certificate of B.A.
Leaving / Transfer certificate
Migration Certificate (if applicable)
Caste certificate (if applicable)
Gap certificate (if applicable)
Domicile of Maharashtra
Q25. If I get the recommendation from someone influential, can I get admission in your institute?
Ans: Admission is purely based on merit. Any recommendation and canvassing is strictly not allowed.
Internships:
Q26. Does the course offer internships?
Ans: All of our students are placed as Interns at reputed companies and hospitals.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Q27. Does the university offer any scholarships, grants, or financial aid options for Master’s students? If so, what is the application process for these opportunities?
Ans: All government scholarships are available as per government rules, which will be informed to the students.
Career Opportunities
Q28. What are the potential career paths or job opportunities available to graduates of this program? Are there any alumni networks or placements offered by the university?
Ans: Please refer to the information given on the various sections of Department of Psychology Website.
Hostel Accommodation
Q29. Can we apply for a hostel facility?
Ans: Yes, students living outside Mumbai can apply for hostel facility. Admission for hostel is based on merit and distance. Hostel seats are limited.
Q30. Which documents to submit for hostel accommodation?
Ans: Address proof, 2 local guardians, 2 contact telephone numbers, photocopy of college admission fees receipt, hostel undertaking form signed by student & parent / local guardian, authentic medical certificates, caste certificate, school leaving certificate, marksheet of previous exam.
Q31. What will be the charges for hostel accommodation?
Ans: Fees may vary. Kindly contact the Hostel Office after admission.
Contact Information
Q32. Timings of the department / the admin office?
Department: 11:00 am to 5:00 pm (Monday to Friday & odd Saturdays)
Admin: 11:00 am to 6:00 pm (022-22031879)
Email for admission queries: admission@psychologymumbai.sndt.ac.in
Q33. Contact number and extension number of the department?
Ans. The contact number of the department is 022-22031879. When asked for an extension number kindly dial 1246.
Frequently Asked Question
Q34. I am studying in same college and same psychology department, but my friend eligible and I am not, why?
Ans. Admission is strictly based on merit. Graduation in Psychology from SNDT Women’s University or any other recognized University (32 credits in psychology with practical subject) is mandatory.
Laboratory Assistant
Principal JD High School
The official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Psychology, SNDT WU, Churchgate and Psychiatrist, Dr. Rajendra Barve. The picture here depicts the finalisation of the Cell’s establishment..
“ATMABODH” SNDT WU Mindfulness Cell was inaugurated on March 22, 2022, by the University Department of Psychology at Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey Women’s University, Churchgate. The Cell strives to become a global centre for mindfulness education and training. First of its kind in India, this Cell was founded by Dr. Nilesh Thakre (Head of Psychology Department, SNDT WU) and Dr. Rajendra Barve (Psychiatrist, Sugat Acharya & Mindfulness Trainer). This Cell will focus on training psychologists in areas such as Workplace Mindfulness, Cognitive Mindfulness Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Program, as well as educating and training masses about bettering one’s emotional well-being.
Dignitaries who graced the occasion included Honourable Governor of Maharashtra and Chancellor of SNDT Women’s University, Shri. Bhagat Singh Koshyari, Prof. Bhushan Patwardhan, Chairman EC and Dr. Ujwala
Chakradeo, Vice-Chancellor, SNDT WU, Churchgate. The comparer began the ceremony by speaking about the importance and necessity of mindfulness and introspection during these challenging times. She applauded the creation of a soon-to-be global centre in the University, exclusively dedicated to spreading awareness about the benefits of mindfulness. Post the initial ceremony, Dr. Thakre and Dr. Barve joined the dignitaries for ribbon-cutting and distribution of the Cell’s Information Brochure, thereby formally establishing the Mindfulness Movement in SNDTWU. Each guest was provided a brochure to inform them of the aims and objectives of the Cell.
In closing, the dignitaries discussed with Dr. Thakre the workings of the cell and expressed their deep appreciation for establishing ‘ATMABODH’ as a part of the Mindfulness Movement. The Centre will benefit not only students, teachers, alumni, but also the general public and hopes to lead to the establishment of many more such centres in India.
The Atmabodh Mindfulness Cell established under the University Department of Psychology, SNDT WU, Churchgate announced its first Mindfulness Training session titled “SANKALP”. The session was conducted by Guest Speaker, Dr. Rajendra Barve. Dr. Barve is a renowned Psychiatrist and Mindfulness trainer.
The session was conducted on August 4, 2022 from 11.30am to 1:30pm. The session was exclusively held for the students and staff of the PG Department of Psychology. All participants including the Department teaching and non-teaching staff were assembled in the Room 609, 6th Floor of the Patkar Hall Building.
The session began with a welcome address by Dr. Nilesh Thakre, Head of Psychology Department, who extended a warm welcome to the Speaker of the day and everyone present in the audience. This was followed by a comprehensive Introductory speech delivered by Ms. Archishmati Sonawane. Ms. Sonawane spoke about Dr. Barve’s professional and personal achievements as a Mindfulness Trainer. Around 11.45am, Dr. Barve was called on the dais to officially start the first session of Aatmabodh Mindfulness Cell.
Dr. Barve began the session by explaining the term Mindfulness – “knowing what your mind is full of.” Along with discussing various concepts such as contemplative science, an interdisciplinary study of the metacognitive self-regulatory capacity and the primary principles of science. Dr. Barve also spoke about emotions and how one must experience the emotions in the present (now), with regard to the same he emphasised on the physiological experiences, behaviour changes and bodily sensations.
Going forward in the session Dr. Barve spoke about the present moment awareness, i.e. being aware of what is happening to you now, and while doing so one must remain non judgmental in accepting the self. He referred to some stories to make the session more interactive and fun for the students to understand, especially concepts such as self awareness, meta awareness, introspection etc or as Dr. Barve termed “awareness of awareness”.
Towards the end of the session Dr. Barve, took some questions from the students and he ended the session with exploring concepts such as the four noble truths of buddha where in he explained the difference between pain and suffering; taking references from pali language he discussed things like “way of life, wisdom, and awareness of memory.
After a few questions from the students, and staff members the first session of mindfulness training was ended with a formal vote of thanks by Ms.Anita Sanu, who warmly thanked Dr. Barve for the insightful session and expressed the curiosity to learn and practice mindfulness in future, Ms. Sanu also thanked Dr. Nilesh Thakre the Head of Department for the guidance and perpetual enthusiasm for having such insightful learning opportunities in the department.
‘प्रशांति ’ – One Day Intensive Mindfulness Workshop
organized by
आत्मबोध SNDT Women’s University Mindfulness Cell
&
Department of Psychology, SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai
(January 18, 2023)
The University Department of Psychology, SNDT Women’s University, Churchgate and आत्मबोध SNDT
Women’s University Mindfulness Cell conducted ‘प्रशांति ’ – A Workshop for teaching and non-teaching staff of all colleges affiliated to Shreemati Nathibai Damodar Thackersey Women’s University, Mumbai, on January 18, 2023 from 10am to 5pm at Lady Premleela Thackersey Committee Hall in Offline Mode. It was inaugurated by Prof. Ujwala Chakradeo, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, SNDT Women’s University; Dr. Rajendra Barve, Psychiatrist & Sugat Acharya, Co-Founder of आत्मबोध Mindfulness Cell and Dr. Nilesh Thakre, Head, Department of Psychology & Co-Founder of आत्मबोध Mindfulness Cell.
During the inaugural address, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ujwala Chakradeo expressed how आत्मबोध – (translated as) self awareness is such a rare entity in our lives. Prof. Chakradeo articulated her passion for the Mindfulness practices and how she applies mindfulness through the various roles she plays in her professional and personal life to answer the question she poses to herself ‘Who is she under all the roles she plays everyday?’. A holistic tone of the workshop was set by a memorable quote by Prof. Chakradeo stating: ‘माझ्या मध्येमी आहे. मी त्याचेबी आहे. (I lay within myself. I, myself, am its seed). At the end of her address, she appreciated Dr. Nilesh Thakre and Dr. Rajendra Barve for their initiative to promote Mindfulness among the academic fraternity and wished the organizing team luck for the Workshop and future endeavors of the Mindfulness Cell.
The Workshop began with Dr. Thakre’s session on the origins of Mindfulness. He conducted a few activities to bring the participants into their current awareness and used real life examples to discuss the utility of Mindfulness practices in everyday life. This was followed by Dr. Rajendra Barve’s session who initiated his session by providing in-depth knowledge about the origins of Mindfulness and the process of building self-awareness. Using metaphors, analogies, and everyday life examples, he enlightened the participants through the use of a Zen story and his own personal experiences. He conducted activities by showing videos to the participants which enhanced their understanding of mindfulness. After guiding the participants in a 20-25 minute guided meditation, he concluded the session with a Q & A. Participants wholeheartedly took part in the Workshop via an interactive and hands-on approach.
The One Day Intensive Mindfulness Workshop ended with a Valedictory ceremony which was presided by Dr. Vilas Nandavadekar, Registrar of SNDT Women’s University, Churchgate. Dr. Nandavadekar enunciated how mindfulness has become increasingly vital to educational institutions as well as the necessity for this concept to be implemented. As a follow-up to the Workshop, 2 participants, Dr. Avaneesh Bhatt (Lecturer at Smt. M.M.P Shah Women’s College) and Ms. Chitra Lele (Head, UG Dept. [Pol. Sci], SNDT WU) spoke about their learnings which was followed by the Registrar awarding certificates to each participant. The Workshop was concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ms. Anita Sanu.
As a result of the cooperation and support of the faculty members of the Department of Psychology at SNDT Women’s University, the Workshop concluded on a positive and successful note. A bright promise of more such activities by Atmabodh SNDT Women’s University Mindfulness Cell and the Department of Psychology, SNDT WU, Churchgate was given by the organizing team.
• Ph.D. in Psychology
• M. A. in Psychology
Prof (Dr) Nilesh Thakre
Department of Psychology
SNDT Women’s University
7th Floor, Extension Building,
1, N. Thackersey Road,
New Marine Lines, Mumbai 400 020
