M.S. in Kinesiology - Sport Administration concentration
The M.S. in Kinesiology with a Sport Administration concentration at Montclair State Un...
M.A. in Psychological Science
Montclair, New Jersey
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The M.A. in Psychological Science at Montclair State University is a 35-credit program that typically takes two years to complete for full-time students. It operates on a mentorship model, where each student works closely with a faculty mentor to develop strong research skills and complete an empirical Master's Thesis. The program aims to provide students with a rigorous academic experience, focusing on the critical evaluation of scientific literature, ethical research design, and proficient data management and statistical analysis. It also offers a broad exposure to advanced concepts across various psychological sub-disciplines, including biological, cognitive, social, developmental, clinical, and health psychology. An accelerated BA/MA program is also available for undergraduate psychology students interested in pursuing an advanced degree.
AACSB-Accredited: AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) accreditation is exclusively for business programs and business schools. While Montclair State University's Feliciano School of Business is AACSB accredited, this accreditation does not apply to the M.A. in Psychological Science program, which is housed within the Department of Psychology in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.A. in Psychological Science is designed to provide intensive training in research methodology and data analysis. Core courses typically include "Research Methods in Psychology" and "Quantitative and Statistical Methods," which cover topics like ANOVA and regression. Students also take advanced courses from a broad range of psychological sub-disciplines, such as "Cognitive Psychology" and "Multicultural Psychology," to gain comprehensive knowledge. The program culminates in a significant empirical Master's Thesis, where students apply their research skills to an original project under faculty mentorship.
Research Focus: The research focus is central to the M.A. in Psychological Science program. It employs a mentorship model, integrating students into faculty research programs from the outset. Faculty members have diverse research interests spanning multiple areas of psychology, including biological, cognitive, social, developmental, clinical, and health psychology. Students are expected to pursue a thesis project relevant to their mentor's expertise and are encouraged to submit their research for publication in peer-reviewed journals or presentation at scientific conventions. This hands-on experience in all aspects of the research process—from design to analysis—is a hallmark of the program. The Psychology Department houses several research labs where students can gain practical experience.
Industry Engagement: While the M.A. in Psychological Science primarily serves as preparation for doctoral studies, it also equips graduates for a variety of research-focused careers, demonstrating a practical connection to industry. Graduates are qualified for positions as researchers in academic laboratories, social service agencies, government agencies, educational evaluation programs, and corporate research and development or marketing departments. Former students have secured roles as research assistants in rehabilitation institutes and mental health centers. The program's emphasis on strong research design, data analysis, and critical evaluation of scientific literature provides skills highly valued in data-driven industries such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, banking, insurance, advertising, and consulting.
Global Perspective: The M.A. in Psychological Science inherently incorporates a global perspective by grounding students in universal principles of human behavior and cognition, which are applicable across diverse cultures and societies. While the program may not feature specific courses on global psychology, its emphasis on understanding human behavior through various psychological lenses (biological, cognitive, developmental, social, personality) naturally leads to a global appreciation. The course "Multicultural Psychology," for instance, explicitly focuses on understanding multiple value systems and worldviews. Montclair State University's diverse student body, representing numerous countries, further enriches this global outlook by providing exposure to varied cultural perspectives within the academic environment.
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.
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 Psychological Science from Montclair State University is a STEM-designated program designed primarily to provide rigorous training in research methods, statistical analysis, and a broad understanding of psychological theory. While many graduates leverage this degree as a stepping stone to doctoral studies, it also equips individuals with highly sought-after analytical and research skills applicable across various sectors.
Research Assistant/Associate (Academic, Government, or Private Sector): Working in university labs, government agencies (e.g., NIH, CDC), or private research firms to support psychological studies. This involves assisting with study design, data collection, statistical analysis, literature reviews, and preparing reports or publications.
Data Analyst/Scientist (Behavioral/Social Data): Applying statistical and psychological principles to analyze large datasets related to human behavior, consumer preferences, or social trends. This role is common in technology, marketing, human resources, and consulting firms.
Survey Researcher/Analyst: Designing, implementing, and analyzing surveys to collect data on attitudes, opinions, and behaviors for market research firms, political polling organizations, or public health agencies.
Program Evaluator: Assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of social, educational, or health programs for non-profit organizations, government agencies, or private consulting firms. This involves designing evaluation methodologies, collecting data, and reporting findings.
Human Factors Specialist/UX Researcher: Applying psychological principles to design user-friendly products, systems, and environments. This role often involves studying human-computer interaction, cognitive processes, and user behavior in industries like technology, automotive, and healthcare.
Behavioral Insights Specialist: Working in organizations to understand and influence human decision-making and behavior, often to improve public services, consumer choices, or employee performance. This role is common in government "nudge units," marketing, and consulting.
Institutional Research Analyst (Higher Education): Collecting, analyzing, and reporting data related to student outcomes, enrollment trends, and institutional effectiveness for colleges and universities to support strategic planning and decision-making.
Psychometrician (Entry-level): Assisting in the development, validation, and administration of psychological tests, assessments, and surveys, particularly in educational, clinical, or industrial settings. This involves applying statistical principles to ensure test reliability and validity.
Research Coordinator (Clinical/Health): Managing and coordinating research studies in clinical settings, hospitals, or pharmaceutical companies. This involves patient recruitment, data management, ensuring ethical compliance, and assisting with study logistics.
Lecturer/Instructor (Community College): Teaching introductory psychology courses at community colleges or serving as a teaching assistant/adjunct instructor at universities, leveraging their advanced knowledge of psychological principles and research.
