M.A. in English
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in English at UNCW is a flexible and student-centered program...
M.S. in Psychology
Wilmington, North Carolina
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW), designated as a "Doctoral University - High Research Activity" (R2), offers a comprehensive Master of Science (M.S.) in Psychology program. This program is distinguished by its emphasis on scientific methods and principles inherent to all fields of psychology, preparing graduates for doctoral studies, research careers, and various applied psychological roles.
Program Overview: The M.S. in Psychology at UNCW is structured around three distinct concentrations, each with a shared foundation in psychological science and research: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Psychological Science (PSYS), and Neuroscience and Behavior (N&B). Two of these concentrations (PSYS and N&B) are primarily research-focused, while the ABA concentration integrates both research and clinical aspects. All students engage in supervised research, and the completion and successful defense of an empirical thesis are mandatory, demonstrating a commitment to rigorous scientific inquiry and advanced psychological understanding. The program aims to provide a high-quality education in the diverse discipline of psychology, fostering critical thinking, communication skills, and ethical decision-making.
Curriculum: The curriculum for all three concentrations shares core requirements, including a robust sequence in research methods and quantitative analysis (e.g., PSY 555 - Quantitative Methods in Psychology I, PSY 579 - Advanced Research Practicum). Beyond these core courses, each concentration has specialized coursework. For instance, the Applied Behavior Analysis concentration includes courses like "Small-n Research Design," "Applied Behavior Analysis: Assessment and Intervention," and "Clinical Practicum: Applied Behavior Analysis," emphasizing clinical and behavior analytic concepts. The Psychological Science concentration prepares students for doctoral study with a broad base in psychology, while Neuroscience and Behavior delves into topics like "Learning & Behavior Analysis" and "Clinical Psychopharmacology." All students culminate their studies with a comprehensive exam and an empirical thesis.
Research Focus: As an R2 institution, UNCW places a strong emphasis on research within its M.S. in Psychology program. Faculty members are actively engaged in diverse research areas, and students are treated as "junior colleagues," participating in investigations across a wide variety of topics. These include basic brain processes, drug effects, social cognitive factors underlying prejudice, methods to reduce school violence, evaluation of psychological treatments, adult development and aging, psychoneuroimmunology, behavioral pharmacology, and forensic psychology. Students have opportunities to work with faculty in laboratory settings and through community research projects, developing skills in data collection, analysis, and interpretation, as well as scientific communication. The required empirical thesis ensures a deep, independent research experience.
Industry Engagement: The M.S. in Psychology program at UNCW emphasizes applied, active learning experiences that connect students with relevant industries and professional settings. Through practicum placements (especially for the ABA concentration), internships, and research opportunities, students gain real-world experience. Graduates are prepared for careers that involve assessing and treating problem behaviors, working as research specialists in psychological and medical settings, and engaging in human and animal brain and behavior research. The program's connections to the broader community, including opportunities to work with individuals with developmental disabilities or in clinical settings, underscore its commitment to preparing graduates for direct engagement with the psychological field.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Psychology program at UNCW implicitly fosters a global perspective by addressing universal aspects of human behavior, cognition, and emotion. While the program is based in the U.S., psychological science itself is a global endeavor. Faculty research may examine cross-cultural factors in prejudice, mental health, or developmental processes, contributing to a broader understanding of human experience. The diverse backgrounds of students and faculty within the department also enrich classroom discussions and foster an awareness of varied perspectives on psychological phenomena. The program's commitment to evidence-based practice and ethical considerations aligns with international standards in psychological research and application.
Location
Wilmington, North Carolina
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 24198
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 79 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to support and attract talented international students. These scholarships aim to make education more affordable while recognizing academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UNCW provides merit scholarships for international students based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other criteria. These awards can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable for multiple years based on maintaining good academic standing.
International Student Scholarships: Specific scholarships are available exclusively for international students, such as the International Student Scholarship which rewards outstanding academic performance and leadership qualities. Eligibility and award amounts vary each year, encouraging prospective students to apply early.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at UNCW offer scholarships targeted to students within their programs, including international students. These scholarships recognize excellence in fields such as business, marine science, and the arts, and often require separate applications or nominations.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid: UNCW encourages international students to explore additional funding options through external organizations, governments, and private foundations. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on locating and applying for these scholarships.
A Master of Science (M.S.) in Psychology from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) provides graduates with a distinctive and highly valuable skill set, integrating advanced psychological science with rigorous research methodologies. The required empirical thesis ensures a deep, independent research experience, making UNCW graduates well-equipped for demanding professional roles or further doctoral studies.
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): (Primarily ABA Concentration) Graduates apply the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis to assess and treat problem behaviors, particularly in individuals with autism spectrum disorder and developmental disabilities. They work in clinics, schools, private practices, and home-based settings, designing and overseeing behavior intervention plans.
Research Specialist/Coordinator: (Primarily PSYS & N&B Concentrations) Graduates work in academic institutions, medical centers, pharmaceutical companies, or government agencies, assisting with or leading research projects. This involves designing studies, collecting and analyzing data, writing reports, and contributing to scientific publications in areas like social psychology, cognitive psychology, neuroscience, or public health.
Neuroscience Technician/Laboratory Manager: (Primarily N&B Concentration) These roles involve working in research laboratories studying the brain and nervous system. Graduates manage lab operations, conduct experiments, operate specialized equipment (e.g., fMRI, EEG), and assist researchers in understanding neurological processes and disorders.
Data Analyst/Statistical Consultant: All concentrations provide strong quantitative skills. Graduates can apply their expertise in statistical analysis and research methods to analyze data in various industries, including market research, healthcare, public policy, and organizational development, helping organizations make data-driven decisions.
Psychological Assistant (under supervision): (Primarily PSYS Concentration, potentially ABA depending on state) In some states, a Master's degree allows individuals to work as a psychological assistant under the supervision of a licensed psychologist, often performing assessments or assisting with therapy in clinical settings. (Note: independent practice typically requires a doctoral degree and licensure).
Human Resources Specialist/Organizational Development: (All Concentrations, especially PSYS) Graduates with a strong understanding of human behavior, motivation, and group dynamics are valuable in HR roles. They can work in talent management, employee training and development, performance evaluation, and improving workplace efficiency and employee well-being.
Community Health Program Coordinator: (All Concentrations, particularly PSYS) Graduates can design, implement, and evaluate health and wellness programs for various community organizations, focusing on behavior change, mental health promotion, and addressing health disparities.
Higher Education Instructor (Community College/Adjunct Faculty): An M.S. in Psychology qualifies graduates to teach introductory psychology courses at community colleges or serve as adjunct faculty at universities, sharing their knowledge and inspiring undergraduate students.
Forensic Research Analyst: (PSYS, N&B, and potentially ABA for behavioral profiling) Graduates can apply psychological principles to legal and criminal justice settings. They might work in law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, or research organizations, assisting with criminal profiling, behavioral analysis, or evaluating programs for offenders.
Science Writer/Communicator (Psychology/Neuroscience): (All Concentrations) Graduates with strong research and communication skills can translate complex psychological or neuroscience research into accessible language for a broader audience. They might work for scientific journals, universities, non-profits, or publishing companies.
