Keep in mind that while the APA does not currently accredit master’s degree programs in clinical psychology, they do accredit doctoral clinical psychology level programs and the institutions offering those programs.
Studying on campus gives you the opportunity to interact with classmates and faculty, which gives you the opportunity to boost your networks. Clinical Psychology masters programs combine classroom-based curriculum with clinical research. Being onsite confers access to the university’s facilities, such as laboratories and libraries. Plus, many colleges are making their programs more convenient for working professionals
to attend by scheduling class times in evenings and on weekends.
Prerequisites for Masters Programs in Clinical Psychology
Usually, a bachelor’s degree in psychology, or coursework in introductory psychology, experimental psychology, and statistics is required. In addition, students may need to show adequate GRE and GPA scores, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose and related clinical experience.
Licensure for Clinical Mental Health Counselors
All states require mental health counselors to be licensed in the state in which they practice. Licensure requires a master’s degree (such as in clinical mental health counseling) and 2,000 to 4,000 hours of post degree supervised clinical experience, referred to as an internship or residency. In addition, counselors and therapists must pass a state-recognized exam and complete annual continuing education classes.
This differs from what is required for Clinical Psychologists. Most clinical psychologists require a degree at the doctoral level, either by completing a Ph.D. in psychology or a Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree. Furthermore, it is common that clinical psychologists complete an internship, at least 1 to 2 years of supervised professional experience, and to pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology; in most states, practicing psychology or using the title of “psychologist” requires licensure. In many states, licensed psychologists must also complete continuing education courses to keep their licenses.
Potential Coursework:
A master’s degree in clinical psychology program may require course work in:
- Cognitive, experimental, personality, developmental, social, and clinical psychology
- Psychobiological course work in the genetic, evolutionary, physiological, pharmacological, and experiential factors that affect behavior
- Psychological statistics and research methods
- Neuroscience
Ready to Pursue a Masters in Clinical Psychology on Campus?
If you anticipate entering the workplace after graduation, the job outlook for Clinical Mental Health Counselors, Behavior Analysts, Correctional Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists is very positive. The BLS reports that employment in these fields is projected to grow 19 percent from 2014 to 2024[i]
If on the other hand, you are looking towards becoming a Clinical Psychologist, while you would have to then pursue doctoral level education, employment of clinical, counseling, and school psychologists is projected to grow 20 percent from 2014 to 2024[ii].
Why not prepare yourself for a potentially bright future! Look through clinical psychology masters programs on GradSchools.com today!
Sources: [i] bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/mental-health-counselors-and-marriage-and-family-therapists.htm | [ii] bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm
