Programs


Master of Science in Psychology

The Master of Science Degree in Psychology is a self-paced learning program, which may be completed off-campus. Study programs are not structured in semesters, quarters or terms, allowing students to begin their degree programs at any time during the year.

The Master of Science Degree in Psychology requires students to satisfy the following course requirements: 30 semester units (10 Core courses) in Psychology; plus, an additional 9 units for a total of 39 semester units of credit.

Prerequisites to Admission

An applicant must have earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology; or, a Bachelor’s Degree in another field may be accepted if the Admissions Committee evaluation indicates the applicant has the necessary foundation to succeed in the program. The applicant must then complete the 6 following prerequisite courses: PSY 102 Introduction to Psychology, PSY 228 Social Psychology, PSY 270 Learning Theories, PSY 280 Marriage and Family, PSY 380 Personality Theories, and PSY 408 Abnormal Psychology.

Master of Science in Psychology Core Courses

Courses required are listed below.  Course descriptions for the Master of Science in Psychology Core Courses may be found by following this link: Course Descriptions

  • PSY 501 Developmental Psychology
  • PSY 503 Human Sexuality
  • PSY 505 Psychopathology
  • PSY 509 Theories of Marriage and Family
  • PSY 511 Professional Ethics and the Law
  • PSY 525 Counseling Systems and Techniques
  • PSY 527 Assessment Techniques
  • PSY 540 Physiological Psychology
  • PSY 560 Clinical Psychology
  • GRM 697 The Research Process

Using one of the options shown below, nine additional units must be completed:

Option 1 (9 semester units)
The M.S. in Psychology Candidate may develop a Master's Thesis under faculty guidance.

  • GRM 698 Proposal for the Master's Thesis (3 semester units)
  • GRM 699 The Master's Thesis (6 semester units)

Or

Option 2 (9 semester units)
Satisfy the following 3 courses:

  • PSY 517 Alcohol and Chemical Substance Abuse 
  • PSY 530 Psychology of Aging
  • PSY 550 Group Psychotherapy

Additional Information