Applied Clinical Psychology, MA

Introduction

The goal of the Master’s Program in Applied Clinical Psychology (ACP) is to foster learning of and competence in skills relevant to responsible and ethical conduct within clinical service settings. Students gain expertise regarding the impact of cultural, biological, social, emotional, cognitive, and behavioral factors on psychological phenomena. Emphasis is placed on developing a strong theoretical and scientific foundation, along with statistical, methodological, and clinical skills that can be employed in a variety of applied settings.

Graduates will find employment as masters-level psychological professionals or proceed to doctoral level training in psychology. The ACP program offers courses in foundational science and practice in psychology as defined by the Master’s in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council and the American Psychological Association.

The MA in Applied Clinical Psychology program has three primary objectives:

To prepare culturally and ethically competent professionals who have achieved high standards of competence in science and practice foundations within the field of psychology.
To prepare culturally and ethically competent professionals who effectively utilize research and clinical skills.
To prepare culturally and ethically competent professionals who are committed to the collaborative practice of psychology and lifelong learning.

Degree Requirements: 60 Credits

The Master of Arts in Applied Clinical Psychology (ACP) Program requires two years of full-time study. 60 credits are required for the degree.

Foundational Classes: 22 Credits

GPSY 503 - Professional Orientation & Ethics 3 credit(s)
GPSY 510 - Cultural Foundations 3 credit(s)
GPSY 580 - Research Methods 3 credit(s)
GPSY 581 - Statistics 3 credit(s)
GPSY 600 - Development 3 credit(s)
GPSY 601 - Biological & Cognitive Foundations 3 credit(s)
GPSY 602 - Cognitive, Social, & Systems Foundations 3 credit(s)
CHP 550 - Found for IP Prac, Equity, & Inclusion 1 credit(s)

Clinical Classes: 20 Credits

GPSY 505 - Psychological Assessment 3 credit(s)
GPSY 512 - Helping Relationships 3 credit(s)
GPSY 513 - Helping Relationships Lab 1 credit(s)
GPSY 520 - Introduction to Diagnosis 3 credit(s)
GPSY 522 - Evidence-Based Practice 3 credit(s)
GPSY 535 - Group Dynamics 3 credit(s)
GPSY 723 - Evidence Based Practice Lab 1 credit(s)
GPSY 731 - Career Counseling 3 credit(s)
GPSY 511 - Ethnic Minority Student Seminar 1 credit(s) (optional elective)

Clinical Research Project: 6 Credits

Students complete one of two applied research options. The thesis project is completed with a core faculty member as chair. In the spring of their first year, students are matched with a faculty chair. The community-based research project provides program evaluation and other research applications to meet the needs of real-world community agency partners. The evidence-based practice sample is completed under the guidance of a core faculty member in a seminar format.

GPSY 680 - Master’s Thesis 1-2 credit(s)
OR
GPSY 690 - Evidence-Based Practice Sample 2 credit(s)
(Each option is for 2 credits x 3 terms; 6 credits total)

Practicum: 12 Credits

Practicum: A minimum 700-hour practicum in the second year is required. This practicum may be served in a variety of community settings, including sites that emphasize children or adolescents, adults and geriatric clients, as well as those offering a mix of all ages, issues, and cultures.

GPSY 687 - Clinical Practicum 4 credit(s)
(4 credits x 3 terms; 12 credits total)

Program Length

The ACP Program is designed so that students will complete the required credits in two years. Students who wish to complete the program part-time may create individualized education plans with a faculty advisor to complete the program in three or four years. All requirements for the ACP Program must be completed within four years of enrollment.

Student Advisement

Upon enrollment in the MA program an academic advisor is assigned to each student. This person, a member of the full-time ACP faculty, works closely with the student to provide continuity and coherence throughout the student’s program. The advisor provides guidance on the educational plan and general coursework and program requirements. MA students meet with their advisors on a periodic basis, or when necessary. Advising may encompass academic and professional concerns and opportunities, career questions, and other topics. Students may request a different advisor than the one assigned.

ACP Program Licensure Information

Admission

Applications for the Master of Arts in Applied Clinical Psychology are considered for Fall term entry only. The deadline for application is March 1st. Applications received after the deadline are considered on a space-available basis. For admission and application details visit the ACP Admissions site.