Core Courses for MA in Psychology Degree - 27 credit hours

This course focuses on historical, theoretical, and practical aspects of the counseling psychology field. Students will write a research paper, using the American Psychological Association Publication Manual and library resources commonly used by counseling psychologists. The course will also introduce students to the theory and practice of basic counseling skills.

This course addresses biological aspects of human psychology, including the biological basis of neurological deficits and mental disorders, and the use of psychotropic medications for treating mental illnesses. Topics also include stress and health, mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia, and contemporary issues in biological psychology.

This course provides a basic review of descriptive and inferential statistics and how these techniques are used with research methods appropriate for counseling psychology. Students will become proficient in computer analysis of data sets, designing and evaluating research designs and techniques, and having the skills to understand primary research in counseling literature.

This course addresses issues of culture and identity, as related to counseling and therapeutic relationships. Sociopolitical, socioeconomic, familial, and psychological aspects of diversity, identity, and culture are explored through readings, seminars, and experiential exercises. Students challenge underlying assumptions and develop effective skills to work with diverse populations in counseling.

This course explores cognitive, social, emotional, and physiological development throughout the life span. While including concentration on the major theoretical approaches to life span development, an equally significant focus will be on practical application of material.

The course provides an overview of concepts of mental health and its development and of the etiologies of psychopathology, from a culturally sensitive perspective. Students learn to recognize the complex biological and environmental contributors to mental illness, and to evaluate effective treatment approaches for mental illness.

This course covers the basics of psychological assessment. The importance of integrating information from various sources when formulating hypothesis and diagnostic impressions and when developing treatment plans is emphasized. Other topics include interviewing, mental stuatus examinations, psycho-physiological strategies, psychological tests related to various diagnostic groupings, and program evaluation.

This couse studies the theory and practice of group experience from the perspectives of a member and observer. Topics include basic elements of groupdynamics, interpersonal styles as they affect or hinder group functioning, role identity, leadership style, and application of group skills in organization.

The course presents the following approaches to counseling: psychoanalytic, psychodynamic, Adlerian, interpersonal process, Gestalt, postmodern, and feminist. The course includes both theory and opportunities to develop and practice skills related to the theories.

The course presents the following approaches to counseling: behavioral, cognitive, cognitive-behavioral, reality, mindfulness-informed therapies, person-centered, humanistic, existential, and integrative. The course includes both theory and opportunities to develop and practice skills related to the theories.

Health and Wellness - Core Courses + 3 of the following courses

This course is designed to introduce students to the basic concepts and intervention techniques of sport and exercise psychology. Topics covered will include motivation theory applied to sport, team dynamics, an introduction to psychological skills training, the psychology of sport injury, and issues pertinent to exercise adoption, adherence, and drop-out.

Students will explore how psychological processes influence physical health. Further, the psychological sequellae of physical illness will be examined, Students will delve into the mind-body connection with consideration gived to the cultural context. The role of the counseling psychologists as a member of the healthcare team will be explored.

This course addresses a variety of of addiction topics, including chemical dependency, eating disorders, sexual addiction, the chemically dependant offender, and women's issues in addiction. Several treatment models are explored, with emphases on effectiveness of treatment approaches and on multicultural sensitivity.

This course is an introduction to the field of psychological trauma, examining the historical development of trauma as a clinical entity and and overview of theories and strategies for treating trauma. Student will learn to identify and work with their own reactions to clients who present trauma issues.

This course explores mindfulness and acceptance based approaches to counseling and discusses the integration of art and science when utilizing these approaches. Students will examine current research about efficacy of such approaches, and also develop beginning skills in these approaches.

This course introducea students to the techniques, strategies, and treatment modalities necessary for counseling professionals planning to work with adults, children, and families dealing with bereavement. The class focuses on the psychological, somatic, cultural, and spiritual aspects of grief and loss. Other topices included are interventions, community resources, and diverse religious and cultural practices.

A graduate level course approved by the program director Independent Study

Science and Theories - Core Courses + Courses Listed Below

The course presents the following approaches to counseling: psychoanalytic, psychodynamic, Adlerian, interpersonal process, Gestalt, postmodern, and feminist. The course includes both theory and opportunities to develop and practice skills related to the theories.

The course presents the following approaches to counseling: behavioral, cognitive, cognitive-behavioral, reality, mindfulness-informed therapies, person-centered, humanistic, existential, and integrative. The course includes both theory and opportunities to develop and practice skills related to the theories.

This course explores ethical conceptualization, analysis, and practices of applied and counseling psychologists. Topics include the ethical standards of the American Psychological Association and the American Counseling Association, the history of apllied psychology, and the delveoping mental health counsel movement. Certification, licensure, and regulatory practices are discussed.

PSY 682 Supervised Practicum or PSY 693 Independant Study

Self-Designed - Core Courses + 3 Approved Graduate Psychology Courses