The global popularity and growth of psychology has created endless possibilities for careers beyond the traditional psychology setting such as business, education, health and public safety.  

Discover your passion through our specially designed curriculum, which offers six guided elective specializations including forensic, educational, assessment, treatment, expressive arts or general exploration. You will collaborate with our supportive and experienced faculty to choose the pathway that helps you become who you want to be.

While our MA in Psychology program serves as a program for those who wish to pursue a career that does not require licensure, it can provide a great pathway to a doctorate as well. 

Quick facts

  • Learn advanced general and applied psychology principles
  • Choose the area of focus that makes sense for you
  • Be prepared to pursue a doctorate
Group of male and female students standing outside and smiling

Did you know there are personal benefits to studying psychology?1

  • Understand yourself better 
  • Learn about research methods 
  • Improve your understanding of others 
  • Become a better communicator 
  • Develop critical thinking skills 
  • Help you in your future career 
  • Learn about human development 
  • Complement other areas of study 
  • Develop insight into mental illness

Learn from professionals

Credits required:

36 credits

Cost per credit:

$957/credit

Time to degree:

As few as 4 semesters

Delivery:

On campus & online

Taught in a personalized, hands-on learning environment, our master’s in psychology curriculum focuses on advanced general and applied psychology principles, and valuable research and clinical skills that you can immediately apply to your place of work.  

Choose the psychology specialization that is best for you

Specialize your psychology courses to fit your career goals and personal aspirations. Each guided elective specialization provides you with the opportunity to learn the theories, skills, tools and treatments for that area.

Forensic Psychology

Engage in theories and applications of psychology relevant to criminal and civil legal settings.  

Assessment Psychology

Use field techniques and tools to develop hypotheses about personality, symptoms, behavior and cognitive ability.

Treatment Psychology

Understand the theories and treatment skills needed to work with a wide array of people struggling with mental health issues.

Exploration Psychology

Take a wider breadth of courses across multiple cluster groups to develop a unique academic path right for you. 

Accelerated

Fast track your way into this master’s program by taking graduate courses as a Carlow undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.

Online Degree

Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online degree option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.

Discover endless career possibilities with an MA in Psychology

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), “Understanding psychological science and how to apply it is an asset in any career. A psychology degree, from the bachelor’s to the master’s and doctorate degree, helps employees perform in a wide variety of jobs both within and beyond the psychology discipline.”2

The APA identifies the following career paths3:

  • Helping businesses
  • Helping people improve their lives
  • Promoting health
  • Protecting the planet
  • Serving communities
  • Understanding the world around us
  • Working in schools

Mickenna Ansell, Carlow University student, testimonial headshot.

Mickenna Ansell ’22

Rachel Seaman, a Carlow University student, testimonial headshot.

Rachel Seamans ’21

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation from professors or clinical/research supervisors that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work 

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

Joseph Roberts, PhD Professor, Program Director of MA in Psychology, MS in Fraud and Forensics, and Undergraduate Criminology

If you are interested in this graduate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.


1Why We All Can Learn From Studying Psychology,” Verywell Mind
2Working in Psychological Science,” American Psychological Association
3 Career Paths in Psychology,” American Psychological Association

Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology: Assessment Psychology concentration

The Assessment Psychology concentration in Carlow’s MA in Psychology (MAP) program will teach you to use the techniques and tools of the field in an array of tasks in primary school and university settings, helping to develop hypotheses about personality, behavior and ability. With an assessment focus, you’ll be able to explore and develop advanced research and clinical skills that will help you find the right career or continue the path to a doctoral degree. 

A student gazes out of a window at sunset. The reflection show in the glass behind her.
In Grace Library, spanning the third and fourth floor of the University Commons, there are numerous quiet spaces and study rooms for individuals and groups to use.
Credits required: 

36 credits

Cost per credit: 

$957/credit

Time to degree:

As few as 4 semesters

Delivery: 

On campus & online

Assessment Psychology curriculum

The Assessment Psychology concentration within the MAP program consists of three courses: Foundations of Neuropsychology, Clinical Assessment of Children, and Trauma Assessment and Intervention. You’ll explore psychological principles applied to educational assessment including learning and behavior theory, strategies for learning and remembering, and problem-solving.

Quick facts

  • Delve into personality and behavior
  • Be part of a helping field
  • Build a foundation fit for doctoral studies
one happy confident young Chinese college student in campus

Alternate degree completion option

Accelerated

Fast track your way into this master’s program by taking graduate courses as a Carlow undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.

Online Degree

Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online degree option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.

Career opportunities for MA in Assessment Psychology

Students within Carlow’s Assessment Psychology concentration are prepared to work in clinical testing environments that use advanced assessment to support diagnoses, create treatment plans, support learning in schools and evaluate cognitive abilities across the life span. A doctoral degree is required in order to become a licensed psychologist.

Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation from professors or clinical/research supervisors that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work 

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

#1
FROM OUR BLOG
Psychology: Benefits of Play Therapy

Child development psychologists work with children, parents, and teachers to apply the principles of play therapy to help kids become capable and independent individuals. Read more about the benefits about play therapy here.

#1
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FROM OUR BLOG
Educational Psychology: How the Pandemic Has Impacted Children’s Mental Health

The damage done to children and adolescents’ mental health during the pandemic will be long-term for those affected. It also will likely shape the field of Educational Psychology for years to come.

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Benefits of a Psychology Internship As a Graduate Student

The benefit of a psychology internship is that it is a great way to expand real-world experience.

#2
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The Pandemic Has Brought a New Urgency for Addiction Counseling

As the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic begins to ease, counseling professionals will find that they are needed more than ever before to help those struggling with addiction.

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General Blog
OUR BLOG
Carlow Today & Tomorrow

Fuel the future you with the latest trends, tips and news around your future aspirations.

New posts weekly!

General Blog
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Psychology faculty

Joseph Roberts, PhD Professor, Program Director of MA in Psychology, MS in Fraud and Forensics, and Undergraduate Criminology

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this graduate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.

Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology: Educational Psychology concentration

Specializing your MA in Psychology studies with the Educational Psychology concentration, you will learn to use psychology techniques and tools in a broad range of tasks within the primary school and university settings. You can explore and develop advanced research and clinical skills that can aid your pursuit of a doctoral degree or a career in child development and treatment.

A Carlow students smiles at the camera during class. She is surrounded by other classmates.
Credits required:

36 credits

Cost per credit:

$957/credit

Time to degree: 

As few as 4 semesters

Delivery:

On campus, some online

Master’s in Educational Psychology curriculum 

The Educational Psychology concentration consists of three courses: Foundations of Educational Psychology, Systems of Educational Practice, and Thinking, Motivation and Creativity. 

Quick facts

  • Prepare for a career in educational settings
  • Build a foundation fit for doctoral studies
Girl at meeting with psychologist showing his social page on smartphone, talking psychiatrist and child, mental health of children

Alternate degree completion options

Accelerated

Fast track your way into this master’s program by taking graduate courses as a Carlow undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.

Career opportunities for Educational Psychology concentration

Students within this concentration are prepared to work in clinical testing environments that use advanced assessment to support diagnoses, create treatment plans, support learning in schools and evaluate cognitive abilities across the life span. Students within the educational concentration are often drawn to working with learning and developmental disorders.A doctoral degree is required in order to become a licensed psychologist.

Admission requirements and application process 

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation from professors or clinical/research supervisors that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work 

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

#1
FROM OUR BLOG
Educational Psychology: How the Pandemic Has Impacted Children’s Mental Health

The damage done to children and adolescents’ mental health during the pandemic will be long-term for those affected. It also will likely shape the field of Educational Psychology for years to come.

#1
#2
FROM OUR BLOG
Benefits of a Psychology Internship As a Graduate Student

The benefit of a psychology internship is that it is a great way to expand real-world experience.

#2
General Blog
OUR BLOG
Carlow Today & Tomorrow

Fuel the future you with the latest trends, tips and news around your future aspirations.

New posts weekly!

General Blog
previous arrow
next arrow

Psychology faculty

Joseph Roberts, PhD Professor, Program Director of MA in Psychology, MS in Fraud and Forensics, and Undergraduate Criminology

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this graduate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.

Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology: Exploration Psychology concentration

The Exploration Psychology concentration within Carlow’s Master of Arts in Psychology (MAP) program allows you to take a wider breadth of courses across multiple concentrations and programs. You can define a course of study to fit your unique interests.

You’ll have opportunities to explore and develop advanced research and clinical skills to help in your job search, as well as prepare you for future doctoral studies in psychology. 

A Carlow students sits at her desk with her laptop. Her hands are folded and she is smiling at the camera.
Credits required:

36 credits

Cost per credit:

$957/credit

Time to degree:

As few as 4 semesters

Delivery: 

On campus & online

Exploration psychology curriculum

The Exploration Psychology concentration consists of one foundational course (Neuropsychology, Forensic Psychology or Educational Psychology) and two elective courses of your choice. The electives can be taken through the psychology, professional counseling, education or social work graduate programs. 

Quick facts

  • Design your own curriculum concentration
  • Earn your master’s in 4 semesters
  • Build a foundation fit for doctoral studies

Alternate degree completion options

Accelerated

Fast track your way into this master’s program by taking graduate courses as a Carlow undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.

Online Degree

Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online degree option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.

Career opportunities for Master’s in Exploration Psychology

Students who complete this concentration are prepared to work in direct clinical, human services, research and medical agencies. A doctoral degree is required in order to become a licensed psychologist.

Shannon White, an alum of Carlow University, testimonial headshot.
Olivia Miller, ’21, biology major and runner on the track & field/cross country team.

We invest in you

Shannon White ’19, who started at Carlow as an adult student, was impressed with the investment that faculty made in her. “I just had very good faculty interactions in the counseling psychology department. They were very personable and willing to help me. They invested in me. We received a good education in social justice which was really important and has made all the difference in the world in the kind of professional I am. Carlow always addresses culture and not everyone does that.”

Admission requirements and application process 

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation from professors or clinical/research supervisors that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work 

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

Be prepared for your doctorate or work in the field

Carlow made it simple for Mickenna Ansell ’22 to tailor her education to future goals while she was working full-time. “The faculty and staff were very easy to connect with and I was able to get professional experience in research and clinical practice with their help. My time at the University prepared me to take doctoral-level classes and work in the field of psychology.”

Mickenna Ansell, Carlow University student, testimonial headshot.
Olivia Miller, ’21, biology major and runner on the track & field/cross country team.
#1
FROM OUR BLOG
Psychology: Benefits of Play Therapy

Child development psychologists work with children, parents, and teachers to apply the principles of play therapy to help kids become capable and independent individuals. Read more about the benefits about play therapy here.

#1
#1
FROM OUR BLOG
Educational Psychology: How the Pandemic Has Impacted Children’s Mental Health

The damage done to children and adolescents’ mental health during the pandemic will be long-term for those affected. It also will likely shape the field of Educational Psychology for years to come.

#1
#2
FROM OUR BLOG
Benefits of a Psychology Internship As a Graduate Student

The benefit of a psychology internship is that it is a great way to expand real-world experience.

#2
#1
FROM OUR BLOG
The Pandemic Has Brought a New Urgency for Addiction Counseling

As the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic begins to ease, counseling professionals will find that they are needed more than ever before to help those struggling with addiction.

#1
General Blog
OUR BLOG
Carlow Today & Tomorrow

Fuel the future you with the latest trends, tips and news around your future aspirations.

New posts weekly!

General Blog
previous arrow
next arrow

Psychology faculty

Joseph Roberts, PhD Professor, Program Director of MA in Psychology, MS in Fraud and Forensics, and Undergraduate Criminology

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this graduate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.

Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology: Forensic Psychology concentration

The Forensic Psychology concentration of Carlow’s Master of Arts in Psychology (MAP) program will help you learn to use the tools of psychology in a wide variety of criminal and civil legal applications. You’ll develop advanced research and clinical skills that can help in the job hunt as well as prepare you for future doctoral studies in psychology. 

A student gazes out of a window at sunset. The reflection show in the glass behind her.
In Grace Library, spanning the third and fourth floor of the University Commons, there are numerous quiet spaces and study rooms for individuals and groups to use.
Credits Required: 

36 credits

Cost per credit:

$957/credit

Time to degree:

As few as 4 semesters

Delivery: 

On campus & online

Master’s in Forensic Psychology curriculum

The Forensic Psychology degree curriculum focuses on developing research skills through the MAP core subjects and a three-course concentration. Courses include Foundations of Forensic Psychology, Systems of the Criminal Justice System and Psychology of Deviance. 

Quick facts

  • Build a foundation fit for doctoral studies
  • Earn your master’s in 4 semesters
  • Make a difference in the criminal justice system
Contemplative female student in optical eyewear for vision correction thoughtful looking away and thinking about idea for essay during time for autodidact, pensive teenager learning on publicity area

Alternate degree option

Accelerated

Fast track your way into this master’s program by taking graduate courses as a Carlow undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.

Online Degree

Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online degree option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.

Career opportunities for Forensic Psychology degree

Forensic psychologists look at people, situations and clues to learn more about criminal motivation and behavior. Together with the core MAP Program curriculum, students within this concentration are prepared to work with civil and criminal courts, juvenile and adult probation, prevention and rehabilitation programs, and corrections.

A female student standing with her arms spread in a overgrown field.
Emily Golling, of Penn Hills, is at the forefront of preserving the green space at the former Churchill Country Club. Golling is an alum of Carlow University.

Make the change.

When a local golf course closed, Emily Golling took the lead in preserving the abandoned land as greenspace for others to enjoy. Her Carlow-instilled initiative took leadership by surprise. “I had no idea about her passion until we were conversing over a planned activity,” said Erin Boyles, assistant dean of students. “I should have known, though, because when she wants or feels something is needed, her passion is front row.”

Read Emily’s story

Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation from professors or clinical/research supervisors that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work 

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

Learn from professionals

What stuck out most for Rachel Seamans ’21 about Carlow’s Master’s of Psychology program was the engaged faculty. “They took an interest in us and made sure we succeeded as both students and people. We weren’t just numbers to them. And, we were learning from professionals who were still practicing, not years removed from working in the field.”

Rachel Seaman, a Carlow University student, testimonial headshot.
Olivia Miller, ’21, biology major and runner on the track & field/cross country team.
#1
FROM OUR BLOG
Psychology: Benefits of Play Therapy

Child development psychologists work with children, parents, and teachers to apply the principles of play therapy to help kids become capable and independent individuals. Read more about the benefits about play therapy here.

#1
#1
FROM OUR BLOG
Educational Psychology: How the Pandemic Has Impacted Children’s Mental Health

The damage done to children and adolescents’ mental health during the pandemic will be long-term for those affected. It also will likely shape the field of Educational Psychology for years to come.

#1
#2
FROM OUR BLOG
Benefits of a Psychology Internship As a Graduate Student

The benefit of a psychology internship is that it is a great way to expand real-world experience.

#2
#1
FROM OUR BLOG
The Pandemic Has Brought a New Urgency for Addiction Counseling

As the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic begins to ease, counseling professionals will find that they are needed more than ever before to help those struggling with addiction.

#1
General Blog
OUR BLOG
Carlow Today & Tomorrow

Fuel the future you with the latest trends, tips and news around your future aspirations.

New posts weekly!

General Blog
previous arrow
next arrow

Psychology faculty

Joseph Roberts, PhD Professor, Program Director of MA in Psychology, MS in Fraud and Forensics, and Undergraduate Criminology

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this graduate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.

The Master of Arts in Art: Ceramics concentration

You can develop your technical and aesthetic abilities in ceramics while adapting your learning experience to suit your research interest with a master’s in Ceramics. The master’s in Art program is geared toward graduate-level students interested in expanding their portfolio in an academic setting and practicing K-12 teachers. Small class sizes provide for one-on-one relationships with faculty and cohort members. The program emphasizes the pursuit of creativity while also fine-tuning career preparedness.

Credits required:

30 credits

Cost per credit:

$957/credit

Time to degree:

As few as 4 semesters

Delivery:

On campus, some online

Master’s in ceramics curriculum 

You will use current and historical theory research to develop a thesis, and combine it with studio practice to develop your MA exhibition for critique by faculty. Advanced studio work in Carlow’s 3D studio space focuses on high-impact practice.

Quick facts

  • Increase your studio practice in a structured environment 
  • Further your education with advanced studio projects
  • Enjoy specialized attention in small classes
  • Gain gallery experience in Carlow’s on-campus art gallery

Alternate degree completion option

Accelerated

Fast track your way into this master’s program by taking graduate courses as a Carlow undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.

Career opportunities for MA in Art: Ceramics 

Job opportunities exist in a variety of areas, including colleges, universities and professional schools and public relations; the degree also is valuable for independent artists. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth is slated to change little for fine artists over the next 10 years.


Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Representative portfolio of your work
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work
Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Ceramics faculty

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this graduate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.

The Master of Arts in Art: Painting and Drawing concentration

In this program, you will build on what you mastered in your undergraduate degree program, refining your technical and aesthetic abilities through guided independent study. The Master’s in Painting and Drawing is geared toward students looking to expand their portfolio at the graduate level, and to further their studio practice in an academic environment. Small class sizes provide for one-on-one relationships with faculty and cohort members.

You can tap into Pittsburgh’s thriving arts scene to facilitate your professional growth and enjoy course visits with industry professionals such as curators, art dealers and artists. 

A Carlow student listens on his headphones as he works on his laptop.
In Grace Library, spanning the third and fourth floor of the University Commons, there are numerous quiet spaces and study rooms for individuals and groups to use.
Credits required:

30 credits

Cost per credit:

$957/credit

Time to degree:

As few as 4 semesters

Delivery:

On campus, some online

Master’s in Painting and Drawing curriculum 

The curriculum includes six consecutive studio-based seminar courses, an elective in a different medium such as clay or digital art, an art history or contemporary art research study tailored to your studio art practice, and a thesis and graduate exhibition. In optional 1-credit courses, you can learn about professional practice for creative freelancers and develop a project around a field trip to New York City. Full-semester and accelerated options are available. 

The graduate program focuses heavily on concept, and you will be encouraged to experiment with multimedia processes and collaborate with peers.

Quick facts

  • Tailor your learning experience to your academic and professional interests with one-on-one guidance
  • Take evening classes for schedule flexibility
  • Connect with faculty and cohort members with small class sizes
  • Gain gallery experience in Carlow’s on-campus art gallery
Portrait of contemporary bearded artist working in art studio painting pictures looking focused and concentrated

Alternate degree completion options

Accelerated

Fast track your way into this master’s program by taking graduate courses as a Carlow undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. Apply for the accelerated option after your sophomore year.

Career opportunities for Painting and Drawing

With a master’s in Painting and Drawing, career options include instructor or professor, illustrator or animator, and arts administrator.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for multimedia artists and animators is slated to grow 4% over the next 10 years, largely driven by the demand from movies, video games and television.


Admission requirements and application process

You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:

  • Official transcripts from all degree-granting institutions you have attended
  • Representative portfolio of your work
  • Personal essay that describes your academic objectives
  • Current resume or curriculum vitae
  • Two letters of recommendation that address your leadership potential and ability to succeed in graduate-level work
Apply

anytime

Start terms:

Fall, Spring & Summer

An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred; however, provisional admission is also possible if you do not meet all of the admission criteria but exhibit a strong possibility of academic success.

Painting & Drawing faculty

Contact Admissions

If you are interested in this graduate program, our Admissions team is available to help you with the next steps, including scheduling an on-campus visit or attending an upcoming event.

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