M.A. in Early Christian Studies
The M.A. in Early Christian Studies at The Catholic University of America is an interdi...
M.A. in Psychological Science
Washington, D.C
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.A. in Psychological Science is a 31-credit-hour program that typically takes two years to complete on a full-time basis, though a part-time option is also available. It emphasizes developing robust research skills and provides advanced coursework across various domains of psychology. The program offers a thesis option, allowing students to engage in independent empirical research under faculty guidance. A significant strength of this program is its high success rate in placing graduates into Ph.D. and Psy.D. programs, significantly exceeding national averages.
Curriculum: The curriculum provides a broad overview of theoretical issues and methodologies in psychology. Required courses (16 credit hours) include rigorous training in statistics (doctoral level) and research methods, along with at least one course in Clinical Psychology, one in Cognitive Psychology and Neuroscience, and one in Developmental and Social Psychology. Students then select additional elective courses to tailor their studies to their interests. The program emphasizes the opportunity to gain hands-on research training by joining a faculty member's research lab or conducting research with other psychology institutions in the Washington, D.C. region.
Research Focus: As an R2: Doctoral University – High Research Activity, CUA's Department of Psychology has a rich history of combining theoretical and applied aspects of psychology. The M.A. in Psychological Science program strongly emphasizes research training. Students have ample opportunities to work closely with faculty members on ongoing research projects, and many graduates become authors on papers or posters presented at scientific conferences, or even articles in scientific journals. The optional empirical thesis further solidifies research skills. Faculty research interests span the breadth of psychology, with particular strengths in areas like clinical, cognitive, developmental, experimental, neuroscience, and social psychology.
Industry Engagement: While the M.A. in Psychological Science is heavily focused on preparing students for doctoral programs, it also provides skills valued in various career settings. The program's location in Washington, D.C., offers unique opportunities for practical experiences. Students can gain research assistantships or field placements at prestigious institutions like the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Georgetown University Hospital, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, and various mental health facilities. These experiences provide valuable exposure to real-world applications of psychological science and foster networking opportunities.
Global Perspective: The universal nature of psychological science and human behavior inherently lends a global perspective to the program. While specific international travel or study abroad components are not a standard feature of the M.A. curriculum, the diverse backgrounds of CUA's student body and faculty enrich classroom discussions with varied cultural insights. The theoretical frameworks and research methodologies taught are applicable across different cultural contexts, preparing graduates to understand human behavior on a global scale. Furthermore, the strong research skills developed are transferable to international research collaborations and globally focused organizations.
Location
Washington, D.C
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 52190
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
The Catholic University of America (CUA) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities to support international students in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need, making CUA an attractive destination for talented students from around the world.
Merit-Based Scholarships: CUA provides merit scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements and overall profile. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable each year, provided students maintain satisfactory academic performance. Scholarships are awarded automatically during the admission process or through a separate application depending on the program.
Need-Based Financial Aid: While need-based financial aid for international students is limited due to federal regulations, CUA offers institutional grants and assistance based on demonstrated financial need. International students are encouraged to provide comprehensive financial documentation to be considered for these awards.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain departments and colleges within CUA offer specialized scholarships for international students pursuing specific fields such as theology, law, engineering, or music. These awards often recognize outstanding talent or the discipline and may include research stipends or assistantships.
Graduate Assistantships and Fellowships: Graduate international students have access to assistantships and fellowships that provide tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative support. These opportunities not only help finance education but also provide valuable professional experience.
External Scholarships and Resources: CUA encourages international students to seek scholarships from external organizations, foundations, and government programs in their home countries. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on identifying and applying for such opportunities.
Graduates emerge with highly transferable skills, including critical thinking, data analysis, ethical reasoning, and a nuanced understanding of human behavior. These competencies are highly valued across diverse sectors, even for roles that don't explicitly bear the title "psychologist."
Research Assistant/Associate: Works in academic, government (e.g., NIH, NIMH), or private research settings, assisting doctoral-level researchers with study design, data collection, statistical analysis, and manuscript preparation, often leading to co-authorship on publications.
Data Analyst: Applies statistical and analytical skills to interpret behavioral data, consumer trends, or organizational metrics for businesses, marketing firms, or social science research organizations, informing strategic decisions.
Survey Researcher: Designs, conducts, and analyzes surveys to gather information on public opinion, consumer behavior, or social attitudes for market research firms, polling organizations, or government agencies.
Program Evaluator: Assesses the effectiveness of social programs, interventions, or educational initiatives for non-profits, government bodies, or healthcare organizations, using research methodologies to measure outcomes and recommend improvements.
Human Resources Specialist: Utilizes knowledge of human behavior, motivation, and group dynamics to support employee relations, recruitment, training and development, or organizational development within various companies.
Behavioral Health Technician/Specialist: Works under supervision in mental health clinics, hospitals, or residential facilities, providing support, implementing behavioral interventions, and assisting with case management for individuals with psychological challenges. (Note: Direct clinical practice as a licensed psychologist requires a doctoral degree).
UX (User Experience) Researcher: Applies psychological principles to understand user behavior, preferences, and needs in relation to products, software, or websites, conducting usability studies and contributing to design improvements in tech companies.
Higher Education Administrator/Advisor: Works in universities or colleges in roles such as academic advising, career services, or student support, leveraging an understanding of developmental psychology and interpersonal skills to assist students.
Market Research Analyst: Investigates consumer behavior and market trends, using psychological insights to help companies understand target audiences, product appeal, and marketing strategies.
Non-profit Program Coordinator: Applies organizational and interpersonal skills, along with an understanding of social behavior, to manage and coordinate programs for advocacy groups, community organizations, or charitable foundations.
