The Department of Psychology offers a graduate program leading to the Master of Arts in psychology. This program, which prepares the student to sit for the examination for licensure as a mental health counselor in Massachusetts, equips students to help individuals who may have a variety of behavioral, cognitive and emotional challenges. It may also serve as a steppingstone to further graduate training (PhD or PsyD).
The Master of Arts degree in psychology is a clinical program with a curriculum designed to provide a firm foundation in the understanding of human behavior and clinical disorders, as well as specific skills in psychotherapy and psychological assessment. Research methods and statistics are emphasized as essential tools for clinical professionals – e.g., in performing clinical outcome studies and program evaluations, and in staying current with the empirical literature. Students are exposed to a range of empirically supported therapeutic methods. Experiential learning is an essential component of the program, with 15 credits of practica and internships required.
Admission Requirements
- GRE General test scores
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate course work
- Applicants must possess an undergraduate degree in either psychology or a closely related field
- A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0, above-average GRE scores and some experience in the field
- Final candidates will also receive a personal interview from the Admissions Committee
Requirements for the Degree
Students must complete a minimum of 60 approved graduate credits for the Master of Arts degree in psychology. Students must complete the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE) before graduation.
All students will complete a minimum 45-credit academic core and 15-credit clinical core (including practicum and internship).
Grade Requirement
Students in the MA in Psychology must achieve a grade of B- or better in any courses taken which will be credited toward the degree. Students may repeat only one graduate course for which they have received a grade of B- or less.