Resource Articles
Next start dates
- Course-Based Courses with a set schedule November 30, 2020
Transfer Credits
- Up to 24 Credits
Explore our MS in Psychology Applied Psychology specialization
Explore the fundamentals of psychology, including methods, theory, and principles of the field while learning about psychopathology, intervention, and principles of ethics in professional psychology practice. This specialization offers a broad exposure to the field of psychology, including both research and practice-oriented elements of the profession. It also provides a foundation for doctoral-level study in clinical psychology.
Program Savings
Course-Based: Receive a $2,000 grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on November 30, 2020. Contact one of our enrollment specialists to learn more.
Get Started Now-
Curriculum
Completion Requirements
- 48 total quarter credits
This represents the minimum credit requirement for program completion. The number of credits for completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, contact an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Courses
Course Code Title Credits The 11-week courses must be taken in the prescribed sequence below.
PSYC 6002 Foundations of Graduate Study in Psychology
Students in this course are introduced to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students build a foundation for academic and professional success as social change agents. They assess the relationship of Walden's mission and vision to professional goals. They establish connections with their peers and the broader Walden community. Students engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of scholarly writing, critical-thinking skills, academic integrity, ethics, and the promotion of professional and academic excellence within the field of psychology.
(3 cr.) PSYC 6200 Themes and Theories of Psychology
In this course, students are introduced to theories, research, and themes that form the tenets of psychology. Basic theoretical models are reviewed, including psychodynamic, cognitive, developmental, social learning/sociocognitive, behaviorist, learning and motivation, systems, biopsychosocial, and gender theories. Theories encompassing diverse populations, including cross-cultural and feminist theories, are also covered. Students critically examine the strengths and limitations of these theories and their utility in the field of psychology. Contemporary themes in psychology are explored, with an emphasis on application of theories designed to effect positive social change.
(5 cr.) PSYC 6215 Lifespan Development
In this course, students are provided with an advanced overview of development through the lifespan, including prenatal, childhood, adolescent, adult, and late adult phases. Basic developmental processes and theories are examined and applied to developmental milestones that occur within these phases of development. Themes of diversity are highlighted throughout the course. Additional topics include ethics, research, global perspectives, and social change.
(5 cr.) PSYC 6701 Culture and Psychology
Students in this course explore the cultural components, research, and theory of cross-cultural psychology. In addition to the previously listed goals, students focus on the impact that culture has on the field of psychology around the world. The scope of this course is broad, with the core theme being cross-cultural psychology (focusing on cultures representing different parts of the world) and comparing cultural influence on human psychology. Many of the topics addressed are related to human development. Additionally, interactions among culture and social behaviors, health, mental health, and mental illnesses are emphasized throughout the duration of this course.
(5 cr.) RSCH 6110 Research Theory, Design, and Methods
In this research course, students are provided with core knowledge and skills for understanding, analyzing, and designing research at the graduate level. Students explore the philosophy of science, the role of theory, and research processes. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research designs and data collection methods are introduced. The alignment of research components is emphasized. Students also explore ethical and social change implications of designing and conducting research. Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills by developing an annotated bibliography.
(5 cr.) PSYC 6315 Tests and Measurement
Students in this course are provided with an overview of the different types of tests used in clinical, educational, and organizational settings. Students engage in a comprehensive examination of psychometric properties used to develop and evaluate these instruments. They examine normative sampling and standardization, reliability and validity, test score interpretation, and test development. Students also consider related ethical, legal, and sociocultural issues, including cultural bias and fairness. Professional standards for testing provide a foundation for the course. (Prerequisite(s): RSCH 6200.)
(5 cr.) PSYC 6800 Applied Psychology Research Methods
In this research course, students are provided with core knowledge and skills for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting quantitative data at the graduate level. Students are provided practical skills in conducting applied research activities including methodological approaches, data collection, and management. They also explore basic exploratory, descriptive, and inferential analyses and apply statistical techniques to analyze data.
(5 cr.) PSYC 6225 Biopsychology
An important branch of psychology, known as biopsychology, combines neuroscience with basic psychological models for the purpose of understanding how the brain and neurotransmitters influence human behavior. In this course, students examine the structure and functions of the central and peripheral nervous systems and explore the impact of neurobiology, endocrinology, and physiology on human behavior. They learn about brain functioning, including exploration of neural conduction; effects of neurotransmitters; sensory systems; and mechanisms of attention, memory, perception, and language. Students also explore literature addressing issues related to neuroplasticity, lateralization, and regeneration. Applying knowledge and skills gained throughout the course, students develop a final research paper through which they synthesize biopsychology concepts, critically analyze related research, and demonstrate APA-writing ability.
(5 cr.) PSYC 6781 Psychopathology From a Clinical Perspective
Students in this course are provided with an in-depth examination of current theory and research associated with major psychological disorders and their diagnosis. The primary classification systems are explored in terms of their applicability and limitations. The factors that impact the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders along a continuum of mental health are explored. Application of the diagnostic criteria in terms of case conceptualization is emphasized.
(5 cr.) PSYC 6393 MS in Psychology Capstone
Students are provided with the opportunity to synthesize knowledge and skills acquired throughout their program into a practical project designed to promote positive social change in a capstone project. During this course, students work on a capstone project in which they complete a major integrative paper on a topic related to their specialization, incorporating theoretical and practical knowledge as well as social scientific research skills acquired throughout the program. The instructor may approve other capstone projects presented by students.
(5 cr.) VIEW ALL COURSES Tuition and Fees
Curriculum Component Requirements Cost Total * Tuition 48 total quarter credit $535 per quarter hour $25,680 Technology Fee Per quarter $160 $800
TOTAL $26,480
Transfer up to 15 credits $13,224
Total with Maximum Transfer Credits† $13,256
The tuition reflects the minimum credits to completion. Program completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.*Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $2,500 to $3,500.
†Maximum transfer credit total includes reduction in technology fee as related to reduced number of courses over time
-
Curriculum
Completion Requirements
- 48 total quarter credits
This represents the minimum credit requirement for program completion. The number of credits for completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, contact an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Courses
Course Code Title Credits PSYC 6002 Foundations of Graduate Study in Psychology
Students in this course are introduced to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online curriculum. Students build a foundation for academic and professional success as social change agents. They assess the relationship of Walden's mission and vision to professional goals. They establish connections with their peers and the broader Walden community. Students engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of scholarly writing, critical-thinking skills, academic integrity, ethics, and the promotion of professional and academic excellence within the field of psychology.
(3 cr.) PSYC 6200 Themes and Theories of Psychology
In this course, students are introduced to theories, research, and themes that form the tenets of psychology. Basic theoretical models are reviewed, including psychodynamic, cognitive, developmental, social learning/sociocognitive, behaviorist, learning and motivation, systems, biopsychosocial, and gender theories. Theories encompassing diverse populations, including cross-cultural and feminist theories, are also covered. Students critically examine the strengths and limitations of these theories and their utility in the field of psychology. Contemporary themes in psychology are explored, with an emphasis on application of theories designed to effect positive social change.
(5 cr.) PSYC 6215 Lifespan Development
In this course, students are provided with an advanced overview of development through the lifespan, including prenatal, childhood, adolescent, adult, and late adult phases. Basic developmental processes and theories are examined and applied to developmental milestones that occur within these phases of development. Themes of diversity are highlighted throughout the course. Additional topics include ethics, research, global perspectives, and social change.
(5 cr.) PSYC 6701 Culture and Psychology
Students in this course explore the cultural components, research, and theory of cross-cultural psychology. In addition to the previously listed goals, students focus on the impact that culture has on the field of psychology around the world. The scope of this course is broad, with the core theme being cross-cultural psychology (focusing on cultures representing different parts of the world) and comparing cultural influence on human psychology. Many of the topics addressed are related to human development. Additionally, interactions among culture and social behaviors, health, mental health, and mental illnesses are emphasized throughout the duration of this course.
(5 cr.) RSCH 6110 Research Theory, Design, and Methods
In this research course, students are provided with core knowledge and skills for understanding, analyzing, and designing research at the graduate level. Students explore the philosophy of science, the role of theory, and research processes. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research designs and data collection methods are introduced. The alignment of research components is emphasized. Students also explore ethical and social change implications of designing and conducting research. Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills by developing an annotated bibliography.
(5 cr.) PSYC 6315 Tests and Measurement
Students in this course are provided with an overview of the different types of tests used in clinical, educational, and organizational settings. Students engage in a comprehensive examination of psychometric properties used to develop and evaluate these instruments. They examine normative sampling and standardization, reliability and validity, test score interpretation, and test development. Students also consider related ethical, legal, and sociocultural issues, including cultural bias and fairness. Professional standards for testing provide a foundation for the course. (Prerequisite(s): RSCH 6200.)
(5 cr.) RSCH 6210 Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
Students in this research course build core knowledge and skills for designing quantitative research at the doctoral level, including understanding data analysis and applying statistical concepts. Students explore classical quantitative research designs and common statistical tests, the importance of quality assurance, and ethical and social change implications of conducting quantitative research and producing knowledge. In this course, students approach statistics from a problem-solving perspective with emphasis on selecting appropriate statistical tests for a research design. Students use statistical software to calculate statistics and interpret and present results. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing a quantitative research plan.
(5 cr.) PSYC 6225 Biopsychology
An important branch of psychology, known as biopsychology, combines neuroscience with basic psychological models for the purpose of understanding how the brain and neurotransmitters influence human behavior. In this course, students examine the structure and functions of the central and peripheral nervous systems and explore the impact of neurobiology, endocrinology, and physiology on human behavior. They learn about brain functioning, including exploration of neural conduction; effects of neurotransmitters; sensory systems; and mechanisms of attention, memory, perception, and language. Students also explore literature addressing issues related to neuroplasticity, lateralization, and regeneration. Applying knowledge and skills gained throughout the course, students develop a final research paper through which they synthesize biopsychology concepts, critically analyze related research, and demonstrate APA-writing ability.
(5 cr.) PSYC 6781 Psychopathology From a Clinical Perspective
Students in this course are provided with an in-depth examination of current theory and research associated with major psychological disorders and their diagnosis. The primary classification systems are explored in terms of their applicability and limitations. The factors that impact the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders along a continuum of mental health are explored. Application of the diagnostic criteria in terms of case conceptualization is emphasized.
(5 cr.) PSYC 6393 MS in Psychology Capstone
Students are provided with the opportunity to synthesize knowledge and skills acquired throughout their program into a practical project designed to promote positive social change in a capstone project. During this course, students work on a capstone project in which they complete a major integrative paper on a topic related to their specialization, incorporating theoretical and practical knowledge as well as social scientific research skills acquired throughout the program. The instructor may approve other capstone projects presented by students.
(5 cr.) VIEW ALL COURSES Tuition and Fees
Curriculum Component Requirements Cost Total * Tuition 48 total quarter credit $535 per quarter hour $25,680 Technology Fee Per quarter $160 $800
TOTAL $26,480
Transfer up to 15 credits $13,224
Total with Maximum Transfer Credits†
The tuition reflects the minimum credits to completion. Program completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of your time to completion, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
*Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included and may cost between $2,500 to $3,500.
†Maximum transfer credit total includes reduction in technology fee as related to reduced number of courses over time
FINANCIAL AID
Many Walden degree-seeking students—67%—receive some form of financial aid.* Create a customized plan that makes sense for you.
*Source: Walden University’s Office of Financial Aid. Data reports as of 2018.
Find Ways to SaveProgram Savings
Course-Based: Receive a $2,000 grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on November 30, 2020. Contact one of our enrollment specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowAdmission Requirements
Program Admission Considerations: A bachelor's degree or higher.
General Admission Requirements: Completed online application and transcripts. Please note that the materials you are required to submit may vary depending on the academic program to which you apply. More information for international applicants.
Testimonials
Earning my MS in Psychology and PhD in Psychology has provided me a greater understanding of several disciplines, including learning, human development, research and writing, education, and even business.
Theresa M. Bane MS in Psychology Graduate
Walden is an amazing university that offers around-the-clock support.
Lia Williams MS in Psychology Graduate
From the wonderful faculty members and students to the residencies and commencement experiences, I have truly enjoyed every moment of my time here.
Nickole Cottrill MS in Psychology Graduate
Resource Articles
What Can You Do with a Master’s in Psychology?
Resource Articles
What Is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?
Questions about our MS in Psychology?
Talk to your personal Enrollment Specialist for more information today.
- Please use our if you live outside of the U.S.
Have a Question?
Choose the most convenient way to connect with us.
Call us: 
Request Information
Chat