ERIE, Pa. — Applications are now being accepted for the newest graduate degree program at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College: the master of arts in applied clinical psychology.
The 48-credit program emphasizes study of the scientific bases of behavior and broad training in empirically supported clinical assessment and treatment. In addition to traditional classroom learning, the program includes 100 hours of practicum, 600 hours in a supervised internship experience, and submission of a master’s research paper. An additional 12-credit graduate certificate offers the academic preparation required to become a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania and many other states.
“The M.A. prepares students to work as mental health professionals in a variety of settings, including hospitals, counseling centers, nonprofit agencies, schools and prisons,” said Melanie Hetzel-Riggin, an associate professor of psychology and coordinator of the new program. “It’s also excellent preparation for further study at the doctoral level. With the addition of the graduate certificate and professional counselor licensure, graduates will have the ability to even open their own practice.”
The first applied clinical psychology students will begin course work in August. Admission to the program requires completion of a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 or better grade-point average and course work in statistics and psychological research methods.
Penn State Behrend also offers master’s degrees in business administration, manufacturing management, professional accounting, and project management. For additional information about graduate study at Penn State Behrend, contact Ann Burbules in the Office of Graduate Admissions at amb29@psu.edu or 814-898-6818.