M.S. in Kinesiology - Sport Administration concentration
The M.S. in Kinesiology with a Sport Administration concentration at Montclair State Un...
M.A. in Clinical Psychology
Montclair, New Jersey
INTAKE: Jan & Sept
Program Overview
The M.A. in Clinical Psychology at Montclair State University is a 36-credit-hour program. Applicants are required to select a concentration in either Child/Adolescent Psychology or Forensic Psychology. Regardless of the chosen concentration, students complete a set of core clinical courses along with specialty courses specific to their chosen area. The program does not, on its own, qualify a graduate for licensure as a psychologist in the United States, as a doctoral degree (Ph.D., Psy.D., Ed.D.) is typically required for licensure. Graduates from this M.A. program often seek positions as MA-level clinicians, case managers, or developmental specialists at agencies where they can work under the supervision of a licensed mental health professional, or they use the program as preparation for doctoral programs.
AACSB-Accredited: The M.A. in Clinical Psychology program at Montclair State University is not AACSB-accredited. AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) accreditation is specific to business programs and business schools. Montclair State University's Feliciano School of Business is AACSB accredited, but this accreditation does not extend to the psychology programs. The Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Montclair State University is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA), which is the relevant accreditation body for psychology doctoral programs.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.A. in Clinical Psychology is comprehensive, covering core clinical competencies and specialized knowledge. Core courses typically include clinical assessment, ethics, psychopathology, research methods, and clinical interviewing. Students in the Child/Adolescent Psychology concentration will take courses focused on child and adolescent development, psychopathology, and interventions. Those in the Forensic Psychology concentration will delve into topics such as forensic mental health assessment, correctional psychology, mental health law, and issues related to child, adolescent, and family involvement in the legal system (e.g., domestic violence, child abuse). The program emphasizes evidence-based practices, ensuring students are trained in interventions supported by empirical research.
Research Focus: The M.A. in Clinical Psychology at Montclair State University adheres to a scientist-practitioner model, emphasizing the integration of research and practice. Students are trained in evidence-based practices and strongly encouraged to join faculty research labs on campus to gain exposure to the research process and understand how scientific findings inform clinical work. The Psychology Department has numerous research labs covering diverse areas such as autism and neurodevelopment, cognition and neurocognitive disorders, forensic mental health and correctional psychology, and youth mental health services. While the master's program focuses on clinical application, the opportunity to engage in research allows students to develop critical thinking, data analysis, and scientific inquiry skills.
Industry Engagement: The M.A. in Clinical Psychology program prepares students for competitive positions at master's-level mental health agencies. Graduates often secure roles as MA-level clinicians, case managers, and developmental specialists, indicating direct pathways to professional practice in the mental health field. The program's emphasis on practical training, coupled with opportunities for clinical and research experiences, helps students develop skills that are directly applicable in clinical settings. Faculty often have active clinical practices or engage in professional consultations, bringing real-world insights into the classroom. The program's design points towards a strong engagement with local mental health agencies and service providers where graduates can gain supervised experience.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Clinical Psychology program at Montclair State University fosters a global perspective by incorporating a "Multicultural Psychology" course within its graduate curriculum. This course is designed to expose students to multicultural issues central to theory, practice, and research in psychology, focusing on awareness, knowledge, and skills related to diverse value systems, worldviews, and cultural socialization. Given Montclair State University's diverse student body, which includes students from over 75 countries, the learning environment naturally exposes students to varied cultural backgrounds and perspectives. This comprehensive approach prepares future clinicians to practice ethically and effectively with diverse populations in an increasingly interconnected world, recognizing and addressing cultural nuances in mental health assessment and intervention.
Location
Montclair, New Jersey
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 19916
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% 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 83 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Standardized Test Requirements
- GRE (Graduate Record Examinations): Minimum score of 295 required.
Montclair State University offers a range of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support international students in achieving their academic goals while easing the financial burden of studying in the United States.
Presidential Scholarships: The university’s prestigious Presidential Scholarships are awarded to top-performing international students demonstrating exceptional academic records and leadership skills. These scholarships provide substantial financial support and are highly competitive.
Graduate Scholarships and Assistantships: Graduate international students have access to departmental scholarships and graduate assistantships. Assistantships may include tuition waivers and stipends in exchange for research or teaching responsibilities, offering both financial aid and valuable professional experience.
A Master of Arts (M.A.) in Clinical Psychology from Montclair State University equips graduates with a foundational understanding of psychological theory, research, and evidence-based clinical practices. The program, adhering to a scientist-practitioner model, prepares individuals for impactful roles in mental health at the master's level or serves as a strong stepping stone for doctoral-level training. With concentrations in Child/Adolescent Psychology and Forensic Psychology, graduates are specialized to address the unique needs of diverse populations.
MA-Level Clinician/Therapist: Providing direct clinical services, such as individual, group, or family therapy, under the supervision of a licensed psychologist or other licensed mental health professional. These roles are common in community mental health centers, private practices, and some hospital settings.
Case Manager (Mental Health): Coordinating care and resources for individuals with mental health needs. This involves assessing client needs, developing treatment plans, linking clients to services (e.g., housing, medical care, therapy), and advocating on their behalf.
Behavioral Health Specialist: Working with individuals, often children and adolescents, to develop emotional regulation skills and modify problematic behaviors. This can involve implementing behavior intervention plans and collaborating with families and other professionals.
Forensic Mental Health Specialist: Applying psychological principles within the legal and correctional systems. This could involve working in mental health courts, offender rehabilitation programs, juvenile justice settings, or child and family advocacy centers, often under supervision.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Specialist: Focusing on the unique psychological needs of children and adolescents, conducting assessments, and providing interventions for developmental issues, behavioral problems, and emotional difficulties in settings like schools, clinics, or youth services.
Clinical Research Assistant/Coordinator: Assisting in psychological research studies, including data collection, analysis, literature reviews, and participant recruitment. This role provides valuable experience for those considering a Ph.D. or careers in academic/research settings.
Crisis Intervention Specialist: Providing immediate support and intervention to individuals experiencing mental health crises. This can be in emergency rooms, crisis hotlines, or mobile crisis units, helping to de-escalate situations and connect individuals with appropriate services.
Rehabilitation Counselor (Mental Health): Assisting individuals with psychological, developmental, or physical disabilities to achieve personal, social, and vocational goals. They may work in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or private practice settings, helping clients adapt to challenges and improve quality of life.
Substance Abuse Counselor (MA-level): Providing counseling and support to individuals struggling with addiction. This involves assessment, developing treatment plans, leading group therapy sessions, and relapse prevention strategies, often requiring specific state certifications or licenses beyond the MA.
Developmental Specialist: Working with individuals across the lifespan, particularly children, to assess developmental milestones and provide early intervention or support for developmental delays or disorders within educational, healthcare, or community settings.
