MS in Psychology Online - Mental Health Master Degree

Program Overview

This online Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health equips students with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, addiction, trauma, and stress. Through a blend of theoretical and practical knowledge, graduates are prepared for careers in mental health, including counseling, social work, and human resources. The program offers a flexible and accessible format with multiple start dates and a hands-on capstone project.

Program Outline

It also examines the impact of psychoactive drugs on individuals and society. The program equips you with a comprehensive understanding of addiction, trauma, and stress, and how these challenges affect individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Objectives:

• Equip students with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and how it is shaped by various life experiences.
• Develop advanced knowledge of how addiction, trauma, and stress present challenges to individuals of all backgrounds.
• Provide students with the skills and knowledge to serve their communities and apply their learning through a hands-on, faculty-guided capstone project.
• Prepare graduates for potential continued education in doctoral programs.

Program Description:

The Master of Science in Psychology with a concentration in Mental Health offers a unique blend of theoretical and practical knowledge. You'll gain a solid foundation in psychological principles while developing the ability to apply your learning to real-world situations. Through engaging coursework and a collaborative learning environment, you'll:

• Analyze the impact of individual differences on human behavior.
• Explore the biological and social factors influencing mental health.
• Examine the effects of psychoactive drugs on the brain and behavior.
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address mental health challenges.
• Hone your research and communication skills through hands-on projects and assignments.
This program empowers you to become a knowledgeable and compassionate professional, equipped to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and communities.

Outline:

Program Content:

• The program consists of 12 courses totaling 36 credit hours.
• Students who need foundational knowledge may take a leveling course (3 credit hours) in addition to the core curriculum.
• The curriculum is a blend of core and concentration courses, covering a wide range of topics in psychology.
• Courses are offered in an 8-week format, allowing for flexible pacing and completion of the program within 12 months.

Course Schedule:

• Students can choose from multiple start dates throughout the year.
• The program follows a rolling admissions process, allowing students to begin their studies at their convenience.

Individual Modules:

• Leveling Course (if necessary): Advanced General Psychology (3 credit hours)
• Core Courses:
• Advanced Cognitive Processes (3 credit hours)
• Research Design & Analysis I (3 credit hours)
• Research Design & Analysis II (3 credit hours)
• Advanced Developmental Psychology (3 credit hours)
• Biological Bases of Behavior (3 credit hours)
• Advanced Social Psychology (3 credit hours)
• Community Project I (3 credit hours)
• Community Project II (3 credit hours)
• Concentration Courses:
• Psychology of Personality (3 credit hours)
• Drugs & Behavior (3 credit hours)
• Trauma and Stress (3 credit hours)
• Treatment of Disorders (3 credit hours)

Module Descriptions:

• Advanced General Psychology: Provides an overview of major areas in psychology, promoting critical thinking skills.
• Advanced Cognitive Processes: Explores cognitive functions like attention, language, memory, and decision-making.
• Research Design & Analysis I & II: Equips students with the skills to conduct and analyze psychological research.
• Advanced Developmental Psychology: Examines physical, cognitive, social, personality, brain, and emotional development across the lifespan.
• Biological Bases of Behavior: Investigates the relationship between biology and human experience, covering topics like the nervous system, genetics, and emotions.
• Advanced Social Psychology: Explores social cognitive processes, personal and interpersonal relationships, and issues of diversity and inclusion.
• Psychology of Personality: Compares and contrasts personality development theories, analyzing individual adjustments from childhood to adulthood.
• Drugs & Behavior: Examines the effects of psychoactive drugs on psychology, physiology, and society, focusing on treatment and policies.
• Trauma and Stress: Explores the impact of stress and trauma on the brain, different types of traumatic experiences, and effective interventions.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
• Exams and quizzes
• Essays and research papers
• Presentations
• Participation in class discussions and activities
• Specific grading criteria vary depending on the assessment method and course requirements.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• The program employs a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles:
• Interactive lectures
• Group discussions and activities
• Case studies
• Online simulations and exercises
• Individual and group projects

Faculty:

• The program boasts a dedicated faculty with expertise in various areas of psychology.
• Faculty members are actively involved in research and bring their real-world experience to the classroom.

Unique Approaches:

• The program offers a personalized learning experience with regular feedback from faculty.
• The hands-on capstone project allows students to apply their knowledge to address real-world challenges.
• The program fosters a collaborative learning environment where students can engage with their peers and faculty.

Careers:

Career Opportunities:

• Graduates of the program are prepared for various careers in mental health, including:
• Postsecondary Instructor
• Case Manager
• Children's Division Worker
• Mental Health Counselor
• Substance Abuse Counselor
• Social Worker
• Human Resources Specialist
• And more

Career Outcomes:

• The program provides graduates with the skills and knowledge to pursue further education or enter the workforce as qualified mental health professionals.
• Avila University's Career Services assists graduates with job search strategies, resume writing, and interview preparation.

Other:

• The program is designed to be flexible and accessible to working professionals, offering online courses and multiple start dates.
• The program is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.