A master's degree in psychology prepares a student for a professional career in a clinical, research, corporate or educational setting. A master's degree program allows students to study advanced theories and concepts in psychology, and specialize in an area of interest.
Admission
Admission to a master's degree program in psychology requires a bachelor's degree, a satisfactory grade point average and a satisfactory score on the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). Undergraduate coursework should include psychology courses if the student's bachelor's degree is in another discipline.
Identification
A master's degree in psychology may take several forms, including a Master of Arts or Master of Science in Psychology, or a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology.
Features
The amount and type of coursework required for a master's degree in psychology vary by university and program, but in general, most master's degree programs require 30 to 60 hours of coursework.
Additional Requirements
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), requirements for a master's degree in psychology include, in addition to required coursework, a master's thesis or a one-year internship in an applied or critical setting. Some programs may require both.
Time Frame
In general, a master's degree in psychology requires about 2 years of full-time study. Programs requiring an internship may take 3 years to complete.
Benefits
Many master's degree programs in psychology allow students to concentrate in an area of specialization, such as clinical psychology or psychological research and testing.
Tags: master degree, degree psychology, master degree psychology, bachelor degree, degree program