Psychology Master's Degree

What to expect from our M.A. in Psychology with a Clinical Concentration

The clinical psychology MA program focuses on training students in the assessment and treatment of mental disorders through individual, family, and group therapies. This program differs in several ways from counseling programs, such as mental health counseling programs housed in schools of education. Our program is grounded in the scientist-practitioner model and thus involves training in theory, research design, statistics, and the application of evidence-based principles to the provision of psychological services. Our students gain a firm foundation in research and scientific practice, which allows empirical evidence to influence their applied practice. Although our clinical orientation leans toward cognitive behavior therapy, we want our students to learn about several theoretical orientations that can guide practice, and to select a therapeutic orientation that best fits their personal interests. Further, at the conclusion of the program students may apply for licensure as a professional counselor (LPC) or psychological associate (LPA), the latter of which allows one to conduct psychological assessments. Students receive one-on-one training in practice via the on-site practicum course. Our psychological services clinic, with several private meeting rooms, serves the Permian Basin community and the university by providing psychotherapy and psychological assessment.

What to expect from our M.A. in Psychology with an Experimental Concentration

The experimental psychology MA program focuses on advanced psychological theory, research methods, statistics, and manuscript preparation. In this program, students learn to utilize different methodological and statistical procedures, gain research experience, think critically about theory and the application of psychology, and enhance project management and communication skills. Students acquire skills that are in high demand, and that enable to seek a career in industry and research settings. Those seeking further education can enhance their credentials and gain experience prior to applying to competitive Ph.D. programs. Our faculty have expertise and interests that span several areas of research in psychology including clinical-counseling, cognitive, developmental, health, social, and neuroscience. Please see faculty profiles for more information about specific faculty interest.

Psychology Graduate Handbook

Masters of Art in Psychology Admissions Requirements

M.A. in Psychology Degree Requirements—Clinical Psychology

• Students must complete 60 semester credit hours.
• Nine hours of required foundation courses must be completed before moving on.
• Students must complete 39 hours of concentration courses.
• Students are required to complete a master’s thesis or master’s project.

Masters Degree Plan in Clinical Psychology Concentration

M.A. in Psychology Degree Requirements—Experimental Psychology

• Students must complete 36 semester credit hours.
• 18 hours of required foundation courses must be completed.
• Students are required to complete 12-15 hours of elective courses. Those courses should be consistent with a student’s overall goals.
• Students must complete a master’s thesis for up to 6 semester credit hours.

Masters Degree Plan in Experimental Psychology Concentration

Clinical & Counseling Comparison Table