The MA Program in Clinical Psychology at Montclair State University is designed to provide students with a foundation in the theory, research, and practice of clinical psychology. Our program adheres to a scientist-practitioner training model that emphasizes the integration of research and practice. Students are trained in evidence-based practices and encouraged to join research labs on campus to gain exposure to the research process and learn how science can inform their clinical work.
Our MA program prepares students for a variety of career paths in mental health. After earning their MA, graduates have secured competitive positions at mental health agencies as MA-level clinicians, case managers, and developmental specialists. Please note that completing the MA program does not, on its own, qualify a graduate for licensure as a psychologist. In the United States, only individuals with a doctoral degree (PhD, PsyD, EdD) are eligible for psychology licensure. As a result, graduates from our MA program are not permitted to practice independently and, therefore, typically seek positions as MA-level clinicians at agencies in which they can work under the supervision of a licensed mental health professional.
Our MA program can also serve as a valuable step toward doctoral-level training. Many of our students enter our program seeking advanced training to prepare them for doctoral programs. To help them achieve their goals of gaining admission into doctoral programs, we encourage these students to make the most of their time in our program. This includes excelling in their coursework and pursuing clinical and research opportunities that relate to, and can help further develop, their interests in clinical psychology. As a testament to this model, our graduates have received acceptances into prestigious doctoral programs in clinical and school psychology, including, in recent years, Fordham University, University of Hartford, University of New Mexico, Nova Southeastern, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Rutgers University, Widener University, William Paterson University, and Yeshiva University, among other institutions.
Graduation from the program requires successful completion of a 36-credit program of study. Applicants to the MA in Clinical Psychology program are required to select a concentration in either Child/Adolescent Psychology or Forensic Psychology. Regardless of which concentration is chosen, students must complete 36 credits of coursework. Students in both concentrations complete a set of core clinical courses (e.g., clinical assessment, ethics), as well as specialty courses specific to their concentrations.
Please review our Graduate Student Handbook for additional information about the program.