M.S. in Psychology

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: To be eligible for postgraduate (master's) programs at SIUE, international students should have completed an undergraduate degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. This degree should be in a relevant field related to the chosen postgraduate program.

2. Academic Performance: Prospective postgraduate students should have a minimum academic score of 60% or its equivalent in their undergraduate studies. SIUE considers this as a baseline for eligibility.

English Language Proficiency:

1. IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 or higher is required, with no individual band score less than 6.0. 

2. TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 79 is usually required. 

3. DET (Duolingo English Test): A score of 120 or higher on the DET is often accepted as proof of English language proficiency.

4. PTE (Pearson Test of English): Some programs may accept a minimum PTE score of 53 or higher.

Standardized Tests (GRE and GMAT):

• GRE: A score of 300 or higher is required.  

Scholarships for International Students at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE):

1. Merit-Based Scholarships: SIUE offers a range of merit-based scholarships for international students, including undergraduate and graduate programs. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other criteria. Some of these scholarships may cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Global Ambassador Scholarship: SIUE's Center for International Programs awards the Global Ambassador Scholarship to a select number of undergraduate international students who have demonstrated leadership skills and a commitment to promoting cultural exchange on campus.

3. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students at SIUE have the opportunity to apply for graduate assistantships, which provide a stipend and tuition waivers. These assistantships may involve research, teaching, or administrative duties and are available in various academic departments.

4. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities offered by organizations, foundations, and government agencies. The university's International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) office may provide guidance on finding and applying for such scholarships.

5. International Tuition Waivers: SIUE offers tuition waivers to international students who meet certain criteria. These waivers can significantly reduce the cost of tuition for eligible students.

6. Graduate School Scholarships: Graduate students can inquire about scholarships and funding opportunities specific to their academic departments or programs. Many departments offer financial support to exceptional graduate students.

7. Research and Teaching Assistantships: Graduate students pursuing research-based or teaching-focused programs may have the opportunity to work as research or teaching assistants. These positions often come with a stipend and tuition remission.

8. Fulbright Program: SIUE participates in the Fulbright Program, which offers scholarships for international students, scholars, and professionals to study, teach, or conduct research in the United States. Students from eligible countries can apply for Fulbright scholarships.

9. Cultural Exchange Programs: SIUE may collaborate with cultural exchange programs that provide scholarships for international students. These programs aim to foster international understanding and cultural exchange.

10. Private Scholarships: International students can explore private scholarships offered by foundations, corporations, and nonprofit organizations. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines.

The Master of Science (M.S.) in Psychology program at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in psychology and equip them with the skills and knowledge needed for a wide range of rewarding career opportunities.  

1. Clinical Psychologist: Graduates who complete relevant coursework and gain supervised clinical experience can pursue careers as clinical psychologists. They assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders, providing therapy and counseling services to individuals and groups.

2. Counseling Psychologist: With specialized training in counseling, M.S. in Psychology graduates can become counseling psychologists. They work in various settings, including schools, colleges, and private practices, helping individuals cope with personal and emotional challenges.

3. School Psychologist: School psychologists play a crucial role in educational institutions. They assess students' academic and emotional needs, develop interventions, and collaborate with educators and parents to create a supportive learning environment.

4. Industrial-Organizational (I/O) Psychologist: I/O psychologists apply psychological principles to workplace settings. They may work in human resources, organizational development, or consulting roles, helping businesses improve employee productivity, morale, and well-being.

5. Forensic Psychologist: Graduates interested in the intersection of psychology and the legal system can pursue careers as forensic psychologists. They assist in criminal investigations, evaluate individuals involved in legal cases, and provide expert testimony in court.

6. Researcher: Many M.S. in Psychology graduates choose to pursue careers in research, working in academic institutions, research organizations, or government agencies. They conduct studies, collect and analyze data, and contribute to our understanding of human behavior and mental processes.

7. Mental Health Counselor: Graduates can become licensed mental health counselors, providing therapeutic services to clients dealing with a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and addiction. They often work in private practice or clinical settings.

8. Health Psychologist: Health psychologists focus on the relationship between psychological factors and physical health. They may work in healthcare settings, helping patients manage chronic illnesses, adopt healthy behaviors, and cope with medical diagnoses.

9. Geropsychologist: With an aging population, the demand for professionals specializing in the psychological needs of older adults is growing. Geropsychologists provide counseling and support to elderly individuals facing unique challenges.

10. Human Resources Specialist: Graduates with a background in industrial-organizational psychology can pursue careers in human resources. They are involved in talent acquisition, employee training and development, and organizational culture management.

11. Substance Abuse Counselor: Those interested in addiction psychology can become substance abuse counselors. They work with individuals and groups to address substance abuse issues and help clients on the path to recovery.

12. Academic Advisor: Graduates may work in educational institutions as academic advisors, guiding students in selecting courses, setting educational goals, and navigating their academic journeys.

13. Community Program Director: Some M.S. in Psychology graduates choose to work in community organizations, directing programs aimed at improving mental health and well-being within local communities.