Prospective Students

Updated 10/18/23

MASTER OF ARTS IN PSYCHOLOGY

At CSUDH, we offer two tracks for our MA in Psychology – Clinical and Health. Both options provides students with a solid academic background by giving them an opportunity to complete advanced coursework and further develop their research skills by working closely with a faculty mentor on a research project or thesis. A wide variety of practicum sites are available for students to learn about direct service provision to clients, employees, and patients for students pursuing the clinical psychology option. The MA in Psychology program is designed for students who want to strengthen their academic record in preparation for applying to doctoral programs. Others choose to begin careers in industry, mental health, community agency and education settings. 

Fall Application 

Application Open

October 1st

Application Deadline

February 1st

Document Deadline

February 1st

Admissions application deadline is February 1st at 11:59pm PST. Any application after this deadline will not be considered. 

Prospective students should use the Cal State Apply application to apply to either the Clinical or Health Psychology option. Students must apply on or before February 1st to be considered for admission. Due to processing time, we strongly recommend that you complete your Cal State Apply application and submit official transcripts at least four weeks in advance of the department's February 1st application deadline. 

Students will apply to and submit all required materials online via Cal State Apply: https://www2.calstate.edu/apply/graduate

 GWAR requirement:

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, students who graduated Fall 2020, or will be graduating Spring 2021,  and Summer 2021 will be exempt from formally meeting the GWAR university requirement.

 NOTE: Please see Admissions Requirements below and download the program Information Packet for more information regarding admissions procedures and required supporting documents. 

Contact Information 

Graduate Co-Coordinators

  • Dr. Keisha Paxton

         kpaxton@csudh.edu

  • Dr. Silvia Santos 

         ssantos@csudh.edu

    Information Session Recording

    VIDEO LINK

    Password: MAPSYCHFALL24


    M.A Clinical Psychology Option (MACP) 

    The Clinical Psychology option is designed to meet the professional needs of college graduates who plan careers in community mental health or who are already employed as paraprofessionals and desire to further their education and opportunities for advancement. The student is offered a unique opportunity to obtain solid academic knowledge of clinical psychology coupled with extensive research and supervised experience in the application of such knowledge. Students who are interested in pursuing licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) may opt to take additional approved coursework beyond that required for the MA. Specific coursework and requirements will be provided by the Psychology Department and must be completed prior to graduating from the program.

    In the Psychology M.A. (clinical) the student is required to complete 33 units of credit, plus 550 hours of supervised practicum in a clinical setting within the community. In addition, the student must successfully complete a written comprehensive examination or a thesis. Students seeking the LPCC are required to complete 63 units of specified coursework in our program and a minimum of 280 hours of face-to-face clinical work supervised by a licensed therapist. These 280 hours are included in the 550 practicum hour requirement not in addition to it.

    MACP Information Packet - Fall 2024

    MACP Information Packet Fall 2024 [PDF]

    **Download the Information Packet to get more information about the program and specific details about the application process and required materials. 

    Admissions Requirements

    1. Bachelor’s degree from a fully accredited institution of higher education

    2. At Least a 3.0 GPA or “B” average in the last 60-90 semester units attempted

    3. Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions must be received at Office of Admissions by the Application due date. Please note that official transcripts submitted must reflect grades earned through the Fall 2023 term and not courses “In Progress.” Courses "In Progress" may appear for the Spring 2024 term. 

    4. Successful completion of the following undergraduate courses or their equivalent, with at least a “B” average:

        • PSY 230 Elementary Statistical Analysis in Psychology (3)
        • PSY 235 Introduction to Research Methods (3)
        • PSY 330 Behavioral Statistics and Research Design (3) or
          PSY 331 Measurement in Psychology (3)
        • PSY 360 Theories of Personality (3)
        • PSY 363 The Abnormal Personality (3)
        • PSY 464 Introduction to Clinical Psychology (3)

    5. Unofficial Copy of Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) Scores General Test (Not Required but Optional for Fall 2024 Admission)

    6. Special consideration concerning the waiving of some of the above requirements is possible (e.g., if the student has had extensive previous experience in the community or clinical area)


    Pre-Requisites Course Descriptions

    PSY 230         Elementary Statistical Analysis in Psychology (3).

    The application of descriptive and inferential statistics to the design and analysis of psychological research.

    PSY 235         Introduction to Research Methods (3).

    Prerequisite: PSY 230 or MAT 131.

    Examination of the design, conduct and interpretation of research studies, both experimental and non-experimental, as demonstrated in a wide range of psychological phenomena. Includes a consideration of philosophy of science and preparation of research reports. Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week.

    PSY 330         Intermediate Statistics and Research Design (3).

    Prerequisite: PSY 230 or MAT 131.

    The applications of statistical techniques to problems in the behavioral sciences. Discussion of problems in hypothesis formulation, sampling techniques, distribution-free statistics, multivariate data analysis, and presentation of results. Two hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week.

    PSY 331         Measurement in Psychology (3).

    Prerequisite: PSY 230 or MAT 131.

    Fundamentals of psychological measurement. Reliability, validity, item analysis, norms, and test construction and selection. Experience in administering, scoring, and interpreting tests of intelligence, aptitude, and personality. Two hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week.

    PSY 360         Theories of Personality (3).

    A study of basic theories of personality including type theories; trait theories; psychoanalytic, learning, biosocial, self and holistic-integrative theories.

    PSY 363        Abnormal Psychology (3).

    The causes and manifestations of abnormal behavior. Field study and case study.

    PSY 464         Introduction to Clinical Psychology (3).

    Prerequisite: PSY 363.

    An overview of psychology in the clinical situation. The scope, ethics, theories, and methods of clinical psychology.

    Application Process

    The Cal State Apply Application will be used to admit both Clinical and Health Psychology option students. Students must apply on or before February 1st to be considered for admissions. Due to processing times, we strongly recommend that you complete your Cal State Apply application and submit official transcripts at least four weeks in advance of the department’s February 1st application deadline.

    Students will apply to and submit all materials via Cal State Apply:
    https://www2.calstate.edu/apply/graduate

    Below is a checklist of all the supplemental documents that you will need to upload and submit online.

    All materials must be uploaded and submitted to Cal State Apply by February 1st

    • Personal Statement
    • CV/Resume
    • Unofficial Transcripts of all institutions previously attended 
    • Unofficial Copy or Graduate Record Examination Scores (Not Required but Optional for Fall 2023 Admission)
    • One Writing Sample
    • Three Letters of Recommendation
    • All Official transcripts must be submitted to The Office of Admissions

    **Download the MACP Information Packet for specific details. 

    Program Learning Outcomes

    1. To apply psychological theories and principles (including the biopsychosocial approach) in the areas of lifespan development, health, psychopathology, psychological assessment, community psychology, and clinical psychology.

    2. To use psychological research methods and statistical analyses to reach logical conclusions.

    3. To apply ethical and legal principles to the practice of psychology.

    4. To demonstrate appreciation of diversity among people and to structure teaching and psychotherapeutic as well as applied interventions to meet the educational, health needs, and mental health needs of diverse populations.

    5. To display interpersonal skills and personal qualities (such as self-awareness, professional integrity, flexibility, compassion, and personal presence) important in the psychotherapeutic relationship.


    M.A. Health Psychology Option (MAHP)

    The Health Psychology Option will provide students with a solid academic background in health psychology. This specialized track is designed to meet the professional needs of college graduates who plan careers in community health and other health care settings such as rehabilitation centers, primary care centers and hospices. In addition, students enrolled in the Health Psychology Option will learn how to promote wellness in individuals and within organizations, and how to evaluate the effectiveness of prevention and treatment programs. The goal of concentrated study in health psychology is to provide the student with an understanding of the relationships among biological, psychological, and social factors as they interact to influence mental and physical health. This goal is accomplished through an integrated program of coursework and research training. Students can earn up to 3 units of credit per semester for directed research (PSY 598) and thesis research (PSY 599). Our graduate students have been very successful securing funding for their graduate studies through several opportunities at California State University, Dominguez: Graduate Studies and Research travel fellowships, Graduate Equity Fellowship, PEGS RA/TA fellowships, and PEGS travel fellowships.

    In the Psychology M.A. (Health Psychology track) the student is required to complete 36 units of credit. In addition, the student must successfully complete a thesis.

    MAHP Information Packet - Fall 2024

    MAHP Information Packet Fall 2024 [PDF]

    **Download the Information Packet to get more information about the program and specific details about the application process and required materials. 

    Admissions Requirements

    1. Bachelor’s degree from a fully accredited institution of higher education

    2. At Least a 3.0 GPA or “B” average in the last 60-90 semester units attempted

    3. Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions must be received at Office of Admissions by the Application due date. Please note that official transcripts submitted must reflect grades earned through the Fall 2023 term and not courses “In Progress.” Courses "In Progress" may appear for the Spring 2024 term. 

    4. Successful completion of the following undergraduate courses or their equivalent, with at least a “B” average:

        • PSY 230 Elementary Statistical Analysis in Psychology (3)
        • PSY 235 Introduction to Research Methods (3)
        • PSY 330 Behavioral Statistics and Research Design (3) or
          PSY 331 Measurement in Psychology (3)
        • PSY 363 The Abnormal Personality (3)
        • PSY 370 Health Psychology (3) or coursework in biological psychology

    5. Unofficial Copy of Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) Scores General Test (Not Required but Optional for Fall 2024 Admission)

    6. Special consideration concerning the waiving of some of the above requirements is possible (e.g., if the student has had extensive previous experience in the community or clinical area)


    Pre-Requisites Course Descriptions

    PSY 230         Elementary Statistical Analysis in Psychology (3).

    The application of descriptive and inferential statistics to the design and analysis of psychological research.

    PSY 235         Introduction to Research Methods (3).

    Prerequisite: PSY 230 or MAT 131.

    Examination of the design, conduct and interpretation of research studies, both experimental and non-experimental, as demonstrated in a wide range of psychological phenomena. Includes a consideration of philosophy of science and preparation of research reports. Two hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week.

    PSY 330         Intermediate Statistics and Research Design (3).

    Prerequisite: PSY 230 or MAT 131.

    The applications of statistical techniques to problems in the behavioral sciences. Discussion of problems in hypothesis formulation, sampling techniques, distribution-free statistics, multivariate data analysis, and presentation of results. Two hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week.

    PSY 331         Measurement in Psychology (3).

    Prerequisite: PSY 230 or MAT 131.

    Fundamentals of psychological measurement. Reliability, validity, item analysis, norms, and test construction and selection. Experience in administering, scoring, and interpreting tests of intelligence, aptitude, and personality. Two hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week.

    PSY 363        Abnormal Psychology (3).

    The causes and manifestations of abnormal behavior. Field study and case study.

    PSY 370         Health Psychology (3).

    Prerequisite: PSY 101.

    Survey of the major findings and theories from the field of health psychology. Includes consideration of psychological, social, and cultural effects on health.

    Biological Psychology or related courses

    Introduction to the study of behavior from a biological point of view. Biological systems and processes underlying behavior, with emphasis on brain mechanisms, presented in the context of fundamental concepts and issues in psychology.

    Application Process

    The Cal State Apply Application will be used to admit both Clinical and Health Psychology option students. Students must apply on or before February 1st to be considered for admissions. Due to processing times, we strongly recommend that you complete your Cal State Apply application and submit official transcripts at least four weeks in advance of the department’s February 1st application deadline.

    Students will apply to and submit all materials via Cal State Apply:
    https://www2.calstate.edu/apply/graduate

    Below is a checklist of all the supplemental documents that you will need to upload and submit online.

    All materials must be uploaded and submitted to Cal State Apply by February 1st

    • Personal Statement
    • CV/Resume
    • Unofficial Transcripts of all institutions previously attended 
    • Unofficial Copy or Graduate Record Examination Scores (Not Required but Optional for Fall 2023 Admission)
    • One Writing Sample
    • Three Letters of Recommendation
    • All Official transcripts must be submitted to The Office of Admissions

    **Download the MAHP Information packet for specific details 

    Program Learning Outcomes

    1. To apply psychological theories and principles (including the biopsychosocial approach) in the areas of lifespan development, health, psychopathology, psychological assessment, community psychology, and clinical psychology.

    2. To use psychological research methods and statistical analyses to reach logical conclusions.

    3. To apply ethical and legal principles to the practice of psychology.

    4. To demonstrate appreciation of diversity among people and to structure teaching and psychotherapeutic as well as applied interventions to meet the educational, health needs, and mental health needs of diverse populations.

    5. To display interpersonal skills and personal qualities (such as self-awareness, professional integrity, flexibility, compassion, and personal presence) important in the psychotherapeutic relationship.


    FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

    Frequently Asked Questions for M.A. in Psychology Program

    1. HOW DO I APPLY?
    Prospective applicants can complete an application through the Cal State Apply website located at: https://www2.calstate.edu/apply/graduate

    2. WHEN IS THE APPLICATION DEADLINE?
    Applications are due February 1st for entrance into the Fall cohort.

    All supporting documents must be submitted and received by this date:
    • Personal Statement
    • Resume/CV
    • Official & unofficial transcripts
    • Official & unofficial copy of GRE scores
    • Three Letters of Recommendation
    • One Writing Sample

    3. IS THERE A GPA MINIMUM REQUIREMENT?
    Potential applicants must have at least a 3.0 GPA or “B” average in the last 60-90 semester units attempted (excluding lower division and extension units). Also, applicants must have at least a “B” average in all lower and upper division pre-requisites.

    4. DO I NEED TO TAKE THE GRE? WHAT ARE THE SCORE REQUIREMENTS?
    • Due to the Covid-19, students submitting applications to our MA Psychology Graduate Program for the Fall 2024 will not be required to take GRE or submit a score report. Students who would like to submit GRE test scores may do so, and these will be reviewed as part of their application package. However, it should be noted that applications including GRE scores will not be weighted more heavily than applications that did not include a GRE report.
    • Students may voluntarily upload an unofficial photocopy of their GRE report for verbal, quantitative and analytical writing portions.
    • There are no minimum score cut-offs for the GRE.

    5. WHAT ARE THE UNIVERSITY AND DEPARTMENT CODES FOR THE GRE?
    The code for CSUDH is 4098. The department code for clinical psychology is 2001.

    6. HOW MANY LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION ARE REQUIRED?
    Master’s degree applicants are required to submit a minimum of 3 letters of recommendation with at least two from academic experts (professors) who can speak to the candidate’s academic preparation for graduate school and/or aptitude for work or research in clinical or health psychology. Additional letters may be included but are not required.

    7. DOES THE PSYCHOLOGY OFFICE ACCEPT LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION?
    No, the Psychology Department does not accept letters of recommendation. All letters must be submitted via the Cal State Apply recommendation portal.

    8. WHEN WILL I BE NOTIFIED IF I HAVE BEEN ACCEPTED INTO THE PROGRAM?
    The Department of Psychology will notify applicants recommended for acceptance to Admissions Office the beginning of April.

    9. IF ACCEPTED INTO THE PROGRAM, CAN I ATTEND PART-TIME?
    Yes, it is possible to attend part-time.

    10. WHERE DO I SEND MY OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS?
    All official transcripts must be submitted to the Office of Admissions

    Please send official transcripts to mailing address below:

    CSU Dominguez Hills
    Office of Admissions
    1000 E. Victoria Street, WH-290
    Carson, CA 90747


    11. WHAT ARE THE PRE-REQUISITIES FOR THE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY (MACP) OPTION?
    Successful completion of the following undergraduate course or their equivalent with at least a “B” average.

    • PSY 230 Elementary Statistics (3)
    • PSY 235 Research Methods (3)
    • PSY 330 Behavioral Statistics and Research Design (3)
    or PSY 331 Measurement in Psychology (3)
    • PSY 360 Theories of Personality (3)
    • PSY 363 The Abnormal Personality (3)
    • PSY 464 Introduction to Clinical Psychology (3)


    12. WHAT ARE THE PRE-REQUISITES FOR THE HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY (MAHP) OPTION?
    Successful completion of the following undergraduate course or their equivalent with at least a “B” average.

    • PSY 230 Elementary Statistics (3)
    • PSY 235 Research Methods (3)
    • PSY 330 Behavioral Statistics and Research Design (3)
    or PSY 331 Measurement in Psychology (3)
    • PSY 363 The Abnormal Personality (3)
    • PSY 370 Health Psychology (3) or biological psychology coursework

    13. WILL I BE ELIGIBLE FOR A LICENSING AFTER I COMPLETE THE PROGRAM?
    The MA in Clinical Psychology has a path to licensure available to students who wish to pursue the Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) license. Students may opt to complete the MA (33 units) and not pursue licensure or complete additional specified coursework in the amount of 63 units which will allow them to pursue the LPCC after graduation. This course plan is designed to meet the requirements of California Code, Business Professions Code (BPC) section 4999.33. The structure of the LPCC option is that students would complete the requirements for the MA in psychology (clinical option) and an additional 30 units to complete courses required for the LPCC. Students who are not interested in pursuing licensure would only need to complete the requirements for the MA degree (33 units for clinical). Pursuit of licensure is optional and not required for the degree. Students must complete all coursework and the supervised clinical practicum requirement (minimum of 280 clinical face-to-face hours) for the LPCC prior to graduation. Students may not graduate with the MA in Clinical Psychology and then return to complete additional requirements for the LPCC.


    14. WHAT IS THE LENGTH OF THE PROGRAM?
    • For Clinical Psychology: The program is designed to take 2 years to complete. Students must complete 30 units of coursework and 550 supervised clinical hours.
    • For Clinical Psychology with LPCC option: The program is designed to take 3 years for full time students.

    • For Health Psychology: The program is designed to take 2 to 2 ½ years to complete, pending completion of approved thesis.


    15. HOW MUCH DOES THE PROGRAM TUITION AND HOUSING COST?
    • Academic Year tuition and other mandatory fees: https://www.csudh.edu/accounting-services/student-financial-services/term-fees-information

    • Housing Costs: https://www.csudh.edu/housing/rental-fees/