General Psychology, M.A.
Program overview
The Master of Arts degree in Psychology at St. Francis College can open the door to many career opportunities. Students who obtain advanced degrees in psychology work in business, education, and law, as well as in the diverse field of human services. This Psychology graduate degree will prepare students for careers in the human services field or for further advanced study in psychology (e.g., Ph.D. programs).
We expect our graduates to be prepared for entrance into mid-level management careers as behavior management specialists, working within human service agencies, human resources, government programs, and health programs, to name but a few potential career tracks.
The program includes foundational courses such as assessment and intervention, professional and ethical procedures, experimental design, cross-cultural and diversity studies, and cognitive neuroscience. During the second year, students will be provided the opportunity to gain valuable research experience through the completion of a master’s thesis.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Understanding College (FS)
Writing and Presentation (WRI1 and OC1)
Mathematics (QR1)
Information Literacy, Media, and Research (ITML)
Foundation in Information Literacy & Research
Recommended but any ITLM course will satisfy the requirement
Creative Voices across Cultures (HCE)
Science at Work (NPW)
Select ONE Biology Course and PSY course
Introduction to Human Biology
Anatomy and Physiology
Introduction to Psychological Research
Ethics, Reality and Logic (PEM)
Individual and Societies (SEH)
General Psychology
Principles of Sociology
Our World, Past and Present (WHG)
Personal Wellness (FH)
Religion and Culture (RS)
Psychology Major
Select two foreign language courses in sequence
Professional Development in Psychology
Research Sequence (must be completed in sequence)
Statistical Methods in Psychology
Experimental Psychology I
Experimental Psychology II
Lower Core Course
History and Systems of Psychology
Upper Core Courses
Seminar in Psychology
Applied Psychology
Select One Elective Course: Development
Developmental Psychology I
Developmental Psychology II: Adulthood And Aging
Elective Group: Basic Processes
Cognitive Psychology
Select One Elective Group: Personality/Social/Abnormal
Theories of Personality
Social Psychology
Abnormal Psychology
Elective Group: Biological
Psychobiology
General electives
Required Graduate Courses
Behavioral Perspectives in Learning and Motivation 3
Psychological Assessment and Diagnosis 3
Group Theory and Counseling 3
Psychological Aspects of Disabilities 3
Cognitive Neuroscience 3
Psychology of Diversity Motivation 3
Foundations of Counseling Theory and Clinical Assessment 3
Behavioral Assessment and Intervention 3
Professional Issues and Ethics 1
Adv. Experimental Methods & Statistics 3
Graduate Seminar 2
Select One Course 3
Supervised Practicum I
Supervised Thesis I
Select One Course 3
Supervised Practicum II
Supervised Thesis II
PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES
PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES
PLO 1: Discuss psychological processes, assessment, counseling, and diagnostic and cultural diversity with an advanced understanding.
PLO 2: Apply responsible and ethical conduct in the context of clinical and applied research settings.
PLO 3: Integrate their conceptual and applied training through research or practicum experience in their chosen area of interest.
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
This program is meant to serve as a bridge to a doctoral program or as a terminal degree. It is not intended to qualify students to practice as psychologists or therapists, or to use the title psychologist.
However, students who graduate with an MA from our program have facilitated acceptance into Alfred University’s Certificate of Advanced Study in Mental Health Counseling program. Completion of this certificate allows students to be eligible for licensure as a Mental Health Counselor.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
🧠 Mental Health or Behavioral Health Specialist – You will support individuals facing emotional, behavioral, or psychological challenges through counseling programs or clinical support services.
🏥 Clinical or Counseling Assistant – You will assist licensed psychologists, counselors, or therapists in clinical or community mental health settings.
🏫 School or Educational Support Professional – You will work in educational settings supporting student development, learning, and well-being.
📊 Research Associate or Behavioral Researcher – You will conduct research on human behavior, cognitive processes, and social issues in academic, healthcare, or research institutions.
🤝 Human Resources or Organizational Development Specialist – You will apply psychological principles to workplace management, employee relations, and organizational effectiveness.
🌍 Community or Social Services Program Coordinator – You will develop and manage programs that support individuals and communities through public service or nonprofit organizations.
🧠 Behavioral or Cognitive Specialist – You will apply psychological knowledge to areas such as behavioral therapy, rehabilitation, or developmental services.