MA Program Objectives and Course Requirements
MA Program Objectives and Course Requirements
The Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology at Rochester Christian University prepares students for limited licensure in Michigan and employment opportunities that require the application of psychological knowledge in the service of psychotherapeutic and biopsychosocial interventions to human psychological and behavioral problems. This involves training in theory, research, and practice. Following graduation, students may continue their studies for a Ph.D. or Psy.D. The program follows a cohort model in which students attend all of their courses together. This builds course continuity and student cohesiveness. The degree is based on the scientist-practitioner model (Boulder Model) in clinical psychology. Graduates from our program learn how to meet the opportunities and challenges faced by researchers working in the field, by participating in the design, conduct, communication, and application of results of research while working with practitioners and lay persons in applied settings. Learning psychotherapy is a critical element to the foundation of a clinical program. One key component of training in applied psychology at Rochester Christian University is a supervised practicum involving the application of classroom learning and acquisition of new skills in a field setting. Students collaborate directly with psychologists and others working in the field.
The Master of Arts degree requires a minimum of 42 credits of graduate-level coursework, including required courses and Clinical Practicum. The required courses are designed to provide students with a thorough background in the major theories and findings in Clinical Psychology and Research.