Abilene Christian University

Program Information

Degree Offered

Master of Science in Clinical Psychology

Format: Campus

Program Description:

ACU's Master of Science in Clinical Psychology prepares graduates to pursue employment in various fields of psychology, begin a college teaching career, or continue graduate studies through doctoral programs. With an emphasis on counseling training, graduates will become proficient in the basic areas of clinical intervention, including diagnostic interviewing, case conceptualization, crisis intervention, goal-setting, treatment planning, and the psychotherapy process.

Why the Master of Science in Clinical Psychology?

The M.S. in Clinical Psychology is a highly practical degree for graduates seeking to become proficient in psychology-related fields. More than 450 hours of supervised practicum experience allow students to work on-site in the ACU Psychology Clinic, as well as in a number of practicum sites throughout the community. New courses in advanced therapeutic techniques give the program a unique edge over many programs of a similar size.

Why the Master of Science in Clinical Psychology at ACU?

• Small class sizes maximize training quality and efficiency

• Acclaimed faculty is composed entirely of professional psychologists and psychiatrists

• Extensive clinical training in the ACU Psychology Clinic and other locations

• Ample research opportunities

Degree Process

The M.S. in Clinical Psychology is a 48-hour program (including 6 hours of electives). It also includes 450 clock hours of practicum experience and a thesis project.

Affordability/Financial Aid

Graduate assistantships are available on a competitive basis (students work from 10 to 20 hours per week). Benefits include a monthly salary and tuition reduction. GAs will gain valuable experience by working with professors in research and in the classroom, giving them an edge when applying to doctoral programs.

Accreditation:

ACU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, the regional body responsible for accreditation of degree-granting higher education institutions in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Latin America.

Eligibility Requirements:

The Master of Science in Clinical Psychology is open to students from all undergraduate disciplines, however, not all applicants will meet prerequisite requirements.

In order to be considered for admission, applicants must complete the following requirements:

• Graduate School application and fee

• Official transcripts of all undergraduate work (indicating the acquisition of a bachelor’s degree and a GPA of at least 3.0)

• Three Graduate School recommendation forms (at least two from psychology professionals)

• A 600- to 800-word purpose statement describing career goals, professional interest, and reasons for unconditional admission to enter the psychology program at ACU

If a student fails to meet one or more of the requirements outlined above for unconditional admission to a graduate program, the admission committee may choose to grant conditional admission with the understanding that in order to stay in the program, the student must satisfy certain conditions.

# of Credits Required:

48

Tuition & Financial Aid

Cost Per Credit Hour:

787 USD

Tuition In-State Full Time:

15662 USD

Tuition Out of State Full Time:

15662 USD

Financial Aid Offered: Yes

Classification: Master's Colleges & Universities I

Institution Sector: Private not-for-profit

Locale: Midsize City

Size & Settings: 1,000 - 4,999