Choosing an MS in Psychology Specialization

When you earn your master’s in psychology, you position yourself for a variety of opportunities and advancements in the field. You can also gain a competitive edge through specialized coursework when you decide to align your studies with your interests and career goals. So, what specializations might you have to choose from as you work toward your advanced degree in psychology? Below, we outline five options you’ll find in Walden’s online MS in Psychology program.

Applied Behavior Analysis

In this specialization, you will explore the different stages of psychological development across the life span. Focusing your studies on behavior analysis is a good choice if you want to gain a deeper understanding of common psychological disorders and the tools used to effectively diagnosis individuals. It’s also a good specialization to choose if you’re interested in enhancing your research, statistics, and data analysis skills. And, if you plan to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst^®, the course sequence offered in this specialization meets the fifth-edition task list requirements to sit for the exam.

Digital Psychology

The advent of the digital age has completely changed the way we communicate and function in society, from social media platforms to working, shopping, and banking online. In Walden’s MS in Psychology program with a specialization in Digital Psychology, you will examine the role computerized technology plays in our lives and the different ways it can influence the behavior and decision-making of individuals. You will also have the opportunity to learn about the shifting needs of society as reliance on digital development continues to grow.

Social Psychology

By centering your studies on social psychology, you can gain a broader understanding of the different ways individuals socially construct thoughts, attitudes, and feelings. In addition, you will study how the welfare of individuals, groups, organizations, and society can be improved via the application of social psychology theory. If you want to further your education and earn your PhD in the field, Walden also offers a doctoral preparation track in social psychology.

Educational Psychology

Educational psychologists play a vital role in the classroom and other educational settings. In this specialization, you will study how learning and motivation can vary among individuals, from high achievers to individuals exhibiting more specialized needs. You can also gain the multicultural perspective and knowledge you need to better understand, evaluate, and apply research in the field.

General Psychology

The General Psychology specialization—offered in both a course-based and competency-based learning format—is a great option if you’re looking to gain a deeper understanding of the fundamentals of psychology. You will learn about key theories, principles, and methods of psychology and how to design effective research methods that can be applied in a global context. Because this specialization has a broader focus, it can prepare you to work in a variety of settings and industries, from academic to research to healthcare. Walden’s General Psychology specialization also offers a track for those who wish to continue on to their doctorate.

Gain Distinction in the Field and Advance Your Career by Earning Your Master’s in Psychology at Walden

If you have the desire to augment your current credentials and take your career in psychology to new places, consider Walden. In Walden’s MS in Psychology program, you can learn how to apply the latest psychological research and theories to make a positive and lasting impact in the lives of individuals, families, and communities. Learn from subject matter experts and thought leaders as they share their valuable insights and field experience. And at Walden—an accredited university—you can earn your psychology degree while balancing priorities, because you have the power to take your classes at whatever time of day works best for you, from wherever you have internet access.

Walden University is an accredited institution offering an MS in Psychology program online, as well as a suite of psychology and counseling programs. Expand your career options and earn your degree using a convenient, flexible learning platform that fits your busy life.

The MS in Psychology is not a licensure program and does not prepare an individual to become a licensed psychology or counseling professional.

The MS in Psychology program’s Applied Behavior Analysis specialization has been designed to offer acceptable graduate coursework in behavior analysis (Verified Course Sequence as approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International and accepted by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board) and prepare students to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) exam, which is administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®). Walden University does not offer the fieldwork experience required for eligibility to sit for the BCBA exam. Walden Enrollment Specialists can provide information relating to national certification exams; however, it remains the individual student’s responsibility to understand, evaluate, and comply with all requirements relating to national certification exams for the state in which he or she intends to practice. Walden makes no representations or guarantee that completion of Walden coursework or programs will permit an individual to obtain national certification. For more information on applying for certification from BACB®, visit www.bacb.com/bcba.

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, www.hlcommission.org.