MS in Applied Psychology

A Master of Science Applied Psychology qualifies professionals to work in a non-clinical capacity in the following fields: health and human services and psychology. This degree enables professionals to help social workers, healthcare workers, psychologists and other professionals to provide services to people. Professionals with this degree typically work under the direction of workers from a variety of fields, such as nursing, psychiatry, psychology, or social work. Job settings typically include private practices, schools, offices, hospitals, community centers, and businesses.

Steps Toward an MS in Applied Psychology

To become an applied psychology professional, requirements vary significantly by state. Successful students typically complete the following steps:

1. Earn proper undergraduate degree (requirements vary by state). Common undergraduate degrees include Bachelor of Science programs in education, psychology or human services.
2. Earn proper graduate degree (requirements vary by state) from an accredited institution like Purdue, Liberty, or Walden University. Typically includes completing a Master of Science degree in Applied Psychology.
3. There are no known licensure requirements for this profession.
4. Continuing education. Advancement to case management, social work, or counseling jobs requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree in human services, counseling, rehabilitation, social work, or a related field. Psychologists require a doctoral degree.

There is also an association for applied psychologists called the International Association of Applied Psychology. Membership offers a worldwide network of those in the field, reduced fees to regional meetings, access to international journals, and free institutional access across the globe.

My Degree and What It’s Worth

This degree provides the opportunity to work with patients over an extended period to treat psychological trauma and improve general life skills. An applied psychology professional is typically responsible for the following job duties:

• Help clients master living skills and communicate more effectively.
• Support the client’s participation in a treatment plan.
• Offer case management support and guidance.
• Arrange for medical care, vocational training, job placement and other outside services.

As there are many concentrations of applied psychology, annual salary will vary depending on the specific job, location, and experience. Please visit our salary information for counselors page for more information.

Online Masters in Applied Psychology Degree Programs

• Purdue University: MS in Applied Behavioral Analysis
• University of Southern California: MS in Applied Psychology
• Walden University: MS in Applied Psychology

Closely Related Programs

The following degrees are closely related to a master’s degree program in applied psychology, often allowing you to pursue a career in this field or others:

• MS in Clinical Psychology
• MS in Community Psychology
• MS in Counseling Psychology
• MS in School Psychology
• MS in Sports Psychology