Program Overview
The Master of Science in Psychology at Mercy University is a 36-credit program that can be completed in two years. The program offers a variety of modalities, including face-to-face, synchronous, asynchronous, and blended formats. Students can choose to complete their practicum in field settings, teaching, or research. Graduates of the program work in a variety of professional settings, including research, non-profit, mental health, and substance abuse.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science Degree in Psychology is a 36-credit academic experience that can be completed in 2 academic years. The core components of the program center on theory, research, and field experience. The MS Psychology Program offers classes in a variety of modalities, including: face-to-face, synchronous, asynchronous, and blended formats. Students are free to select classes in formats that work best with their busy lives. There are two main reasons why students join the MS Psychology Program at Mercy University. The first is for career advancement with their current employer. Several employers encourage their employees to pursue a masters degree and provide incentives to do so. The second reason is to gain a broader depth of knowledge and experience in an effort to build a competitive resume for academic pursuits beyond the masters degree. One of the cornerstones of the program is a yearlong research project in which students first conduct a thorough literature review, design a research study, and have it approved by the Institutional Review Board. Next, students implement their proposed project by recruiting participants, collecting and analyzing data, and writing up a final research report. In addition, students must complete a practicum requirement that engages students in real-world application of skills. Students may choose to complete their practicum in field settings, teaching, or research.
Outline:
Core Courses: 24 Credits
PSYN 500: Contemporary Theories of Psychology (3) PSYN 510: Physiological Psychology (3) PSYN 535: Advanced Research Methods in Psychology (3) PSYN 536: Research Internship in Psychology I (3) PSYN 537: Research Internship in Psychology II (3) PSYN 550: Counseling Theories and Techniques (3) PSYN 555: Developmental Psychology (3) PSYN 565: Social Psychology (3) PSYN 595: Seminar in Professional Issues (3) PSYN 605: Group Experience (3) PSYN 610: Field Experience in Counseling I (3) PSYN 620: Field Experience in Counseling II (3)
- Electives: 12 Credits
- Capstone: 0-6 Credits PSYN 700: Comprehensive Examination in Psychology (0) PSYN 709: Masters Thesis Supervision (6)
Assessment:
Students in the MS Psychology program will be trained to critically evaluate psychological research, design and conduct their own research studies with faculty mentors, and have the opportunity to share their research at professional conferences. Many Mercy University faculty members have ongoing research programs and welcome student involvement. Students in the M.S. Psychology are able to pursue a CASAC-T Credential through the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS).
Careers:
Research assistant Non-for-profit program director Mental health technician, mental health worker Case manager in human services and substance use settings Adjunct college instructor Graduates of the MS Psychology Program work in a variety of professional settings. Recent graduates have found employment opportunities in the following capacities:
