At Carlow University, the next generation of ethical leaders is already in the making.
Here, our students gain more than just a degree – they build connections, find purpose, and thrive – working in ways big and small to reshape the future. With your support, we can continue to invest in these future leaders and expand their ability to transform our world.
How You Can Support
At Carlow University, the next generation of ethical leaders is already in the making.
Here, our students gain more than just a degree – they build connections, find purpose, and thrive – working in ways big and small to reshape the future. With your support, we can continue to invest in these future leaders and expand their ability to transform our world.
How You Can SupportCarlow University’s PsyD program in Counseling Psychology is dedicated to training skilled depth-oriented counseling psychologists who are committed to social justice. The program is designed to prepare students to work in diverse settings and communities, with a focus on promoting positive change and addressing social inequalities. The program emphasizes evidence-based psychodynamic and depth-oriented approaches in counseling psychology as well as the biological, affective, cognitive and social bases of behavior. We provide students with rigorous training in assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and consultation for individuals, groups, communities, and organizations. Through a combination of coursework, practicum experiences, and research opportunities, students develop the knowledge and skills needed to become effective practitioners.
At the heart of the program is a commitment to social justice, which is reflected in both the curriculum and the overall approach to training. Students are exposed to a wide range of social issues and are encouraged to critically examine their own beliefs and biases. They are also trained to work with individuals and groups from diverse backgrounds, and to address social and systemic factors that may be contributing to psychological distress. The program emphasizes the development of ethical and culturally humble practitioners who are able to work collaboratively with other professionals and community organizations.
Students have the opportunity to work with faculty members who are experienced practitioners and researchers in the field, and to engage in a range of professional development activities. Overall, Carlow University’s PsyD program in Counseling Psychology provides students with a comprehensive depth-oriented and socially responsible education.
The program was granted accreditation by the American Psychological Association (APA) in July 2011 and was re-accredited according to the standard seven-year interval in the fall of 2018. The program is currently accredited for the maximum of 10 years, with a 2028 return visit expected from APA.
92 credits
$1,228/credit
As few as 48 months
On campus, some online
The Doctoral Program in Counseling Psychology at Carlow University is implemented through the practitioner-scholar model of training and the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree is conferred.
The program prepares Counseling Psychologists to apply knowledge grounded in psychological science and theory in support of clinical practice. Specifically, the program is committed to training scientifically sophisticated practitioners who evaluate treatments, make informed decisions, understand the limitations of scientific knowledge, and cultivate an intellectual curiosity in their professional activities.
The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree focuses on training skilled clinicians who intend to be licensed and primarily practice as licensed psychologists. Applicants who are exclusively or primarily interested in assuming positions as researchers or academics are encouraged to consider more research-oriented training programs, such as those implemented through the scientist-practitioner model of training.
Counseling psychologists work in private practice, community agencies and college counseling centers and in research positions. Others work as part of a team, collaborating with physicians and social workers, or in school settings working with students, teachers, parents and other educators.
Employment of psychologists is projected to grow 19% from 2014 to 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Job prospects should be best for those who have a doctoral degree in an applied specialty.
Carlow University’s doctoral program in Counseling Psychology (PsyD) has had its accreditation reaffirmed by the American Psychological Association’s (APA) Commission on Accreditation. The next site visit to be made by the commission will be in 2028.
Training programs in Counseling Psychology and Clinical Psychology share many similarities, but historically there were key differences in their foci, goals, and the populations they served. Here’s an overview of the main distinctions between these two fields:
Because of the historical differences between counseling and clinical psychology, a perception may linger that counseling psychologists are not well suited for work in settings that engage with more serious psychopathology, such as hospitals and prisons.
Both counseling psychologists and clinical psychologists may pursue licensure to practice independently as licensed psychologists. The specific requirements for licensure vary by state or country but generally include completing a doctoral program, supervised clinical experience, and passing a licensing exam.
Students have access to a wide range of support services including Wellness and Fitness Services, The Office of Career Development, Financial Aid, and the Center for Academic Achievement
The primary purpose of the Counseling Psychology Doctoral Student Association (CPDSA) is to offer students a structured way to connect around issues of shared importance and advocate for their interests and concerns. Early during each spring semester, students will elect three representatives (one from each cohort) to serve on the Counseling Psychology Doctoral Student Association Council of Representatives. Student representatives are invited to attend formally scheduled program faculty meetings and are encouraged to report to the CPDSA a summary of the meetings.
In the summer before first-year doctoral students begin their training, all students are matched with a more advanced doctoral student in the program. The seasoned students assist the new students in helping orient them to the Pittsburgh region and in navigating the rigors of advanced graduate studies in psychology.
The Program Directors, Clinical Coordinator, and Academic Advisors are faculty members who support student learning and growth during doctoral level training. Students should feel free to approach the Program Directors, Clinical Coordinator, PsyD Core Faculty, or their Academic Advisors for guidance with academic or professional issues at any point during their training.
An informal seminar is provided for students applying for internship by the Clinical Coordinator. It takes place the fall term during which applications are submitted. Under faculty mentorship and through peer support, students are provided with an overview of the internship application process and helped with preparation of their curricula vitae and cover letters.
The Carlow Information Technology Department provides a broad range of technology services for all members of the Carlow community. Information technology staff is available for student, staff and faculty support and free, non-credit computer courses for all members of the community are offered regularly. There are 10 student computer labs located across campus, and most classrooms are classified as “smart classrooms.”
As a PsyD student, you will have access to a wide range of resources in support of enhancing the clinical training experience. The campus is well equipped with regard to technology and the doctoral program has discipline-specific material to augment student learning in the practice of psychology.
Currently two to four graduate assistantships (GA) are offered each year and are typically reserved for first year students. Graduate Assistants provide administrative and research support to program leadership and teach one undergraduate course. Graduate Assistants receive an annual stipend and tuition remission for 6 credits in both the fall and spring semesters.
Courses are offered in the evening to accommodate students who must work part-time while pursuing the doctoral degree. Since all Program students have a master’s degree in counseling or a closely related field, many are involved in the provision or supervision of psychological care in relation to their employment.
Students working on their dissertation are eligible to apply for up to $400.00 each to defray associated expenditures.
While the program has access to the physical facilities of the University across campus, the Counseling Psychology program is housed in Antonian Hall. Antonian Hall is adequately equipped with smart-classrooms and wireless internet access. The program itself is on the fifth floor where faculty offices are in close proximity to student work space and the student lounge, which allows for regular interactions among those in the program community. The student lounge is equipped with three computers and access to a copier/scanner, as well as a microwave and a refrigerator.
In support of training in psychological assessment, students have access to over 60 different personality, achievement, and intellectual instruments, many of which include multiple copies to ensure availability.
The main campus library collection is housed on three floors of the newly updated University Commons building in the heart of campus and the library also offers an extensive collection of virtual resources. On campus, space is available for both quiet study and group meetings. Reference Librarians are available during most library hours to offer the students one-on-one reference assistance.
All students are required to participate in the APPIC Match which takes place the of third year of study. An informal seminar is provided for students applying for APPIC Match internship by the Clinical Coordinator.
Under faculty mentorship and through peer support, students are provided with an overview of the internship application process and helped with preparation of their curricula vitae and cover letters.
The APPIC Internship Match is a national placement process that will necessitate a relocation. Practically speaking this means that you will need to plan to relocate for your internship year.
The program has established relationships with a significant number of agencies in the greater Pittsburgh area. These training sites are varied with regard to population served and services provided, thereby affording students access to rich clinical experiences. Examples of training sites include hospitals, college counseling centers, community and rural mental health practices, private practices, and specialty sites focusing on forensic and neuropsychological practice.
Pennsylvania regulations that went into effect on August 12, 2019, now permit doctoral psychology students to count practica hours in lieu of post-doctoral hours, if a total number of pre-doctoral hours are achieved. To facilitate direct entry into psychological practice as per Pennsylvania regulations that went into effect on August 12, 2019, now permit doctoral psychology students to count practica hours in lieu of post-doctoral hours, if a total number of pre-doctoral hours are achieved. To facilitate direct entry into psychological practice as per Pennsylvania state regulations, Carlow University’s PsyD program in counseling psychology requires 18 credits of practicum training (6 semesters of practicum seminar assuming 3 credits are earned each semester of practicum seminar). This will total 1800 hours of direct and indirect field placement experience. Typically, a single commitment to a practicum training site experience is a year-long (three semesters: summer, fall, and spring).
Students are strongly discouraged from planning to work full-time while they complete the doctoral program. Many students who have worked full-time during their bachelor’s or master’s level training believe they will be able to do so with their doctoral training experiences, however, doctoral level training is much more demanding than bachelor’s and master’s level training. Nearly all students who attempt to work full-time after commencing practicum training in the summer of the first year find that they cannot meet the 50+ hours per week expectation of training and simultaneously maintain full-time employment.
Currently, the Doctoral Program in Counseling Psychology at Carlow University offers opportunities for international study in Ireland and Uganda.
This one-week program is designed jointly by faculty from Carlow University and St. Angela’s College in Sligo, Ireland. Students learn about the mental health system in Ireland and about the content and process of service delivery to those with special needs. In addition, students explore issues related to diversity and social justice within the Irish culture and how they relate to psychosocial functioning and mental health. The trip is further characterized by exposure to a different culture through touring and educational outings. The course includes readings that are to be completed prior to departure, full participation in activities in Ireland and a major paper or project.
Doctoral students can participate in a number of ways in the collaborative work being done by Ugandan citizens and Carlow faculty.
This initiative is being carried out with Carlow faculty and doctoral students in collaboration with Advocacy for Vulnerable Children’s Rights (AVCR). According to annual crime statistics by the Uganda Police, domestic violence and sexually related offences account for a significant proportion of complaints received by law enforcement. Those studying or otherwise interested in this social problem attribute domestic violence in the country (most notably violence against women) to culture and tradition. The Uganda government struggles to provide an infrastructure to meet the needs of its citizens which means that not unlike many societies, change must begin at the grassroots level.
Collaboratively established goals include: Mobilizing and engaging community members (e.g., women, men, local institutions, and policy makers in the region) to collaboratively determine how they may be involved in creating a movement in their region to promote more safe and equitable relationships, provide psychoeducation through a series of ongoing lectures and discussion groups about safe relationships/gender violence, create and implement an advertising campaign (through the very popular use of radio) about the dangers of gender violence, and to create a Uganda-culture specific school-based curriculum to propose to regional schools.
This initiative is being carried out through in collaboration with the Ugandan government and citizens. Two regions were identified as the initial focus of the work of this project; the Mukono District and Soroti.
Overarching goals are to increase the extent to which citizens are able to decrease vulnerability to trafficking by: Increasing regional awareness about the issue, increasing self-sufficiency, and increasing accessibility of school, especially for girls.
This initiative is being carried out in collaboration with Advocacy for Vulnerable Children’s Rights (AVCR).
The primary focus at this time is the building of a health clinic.
Primary goals of the initiative are to: Increase access to education for vulnerable children in Soroti, increase ease of access to food and water, increase ease of access to health care, and decrease vulnerability to human trafficking.
For more information regarding the structure, focus, and policies of our program, please see our Program Handbook.
Applicants to Carlow University’s Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Counseling Psychology program must possess a master’s degree in psychology, counseling, or a closely related field (such as social work).
The master’s degree must have been granted by a regionally accredited institution in higher education. Master’s degrees are considered closely related if they include coursework in the following areas:
Applicants who have a deficit in one or more of the areas listed above, and who otherwise would qualify for entrance into the program, may be considered for admission with the understanding that the deficit must be remedied during the first year of the doctoral program. If an applicant has too many prerequisite deficits, Carlow may need to defer application for admittance to the following year while the student completes the necessary coursework.
Preference will be given to applicants with strong academic credentials and relevant experience as a helping professional. Applicants who are finalists for admission will be invited to campus for a personal interview with representatives from the department in mid to late February of each year.
Note: The PsyD Program in Counseling Psychology utilizes a cohort-based training model, which entails a set sequence of courses meant to be taken in an established progression over the four years of the program. Cohort based training models expect that students will take the courses required in order along with the rest of their cohort members, and do not afford students the ability to create an individualized course sequence.
Therefore, students can only start the program in the fall semester. There are no spring or summer start dates.
January 7
Fall
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 CACREP-accredited MS in Professional Counseling: Clinical Mental Health Counseling Track is designed to transition you into a career in professional counseling and prepare you to become a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling track will train you to work with children, adults, and families in diverse settings such as schools, hospitals, correctional facilities, and mental health agencies. The program cultivates respect for the uniqueness of individuals and is grounded in social justice and advocacy. It emphasizes a developmental focus across the lifespan and applies scholarship to clinical practice.
60 credits
$1,046/credit
2.5 – 3.5 years
On campus
The 60-credit M.S. degree in Professional Counseling consists of 51 credits of core courses, 9 credits of electives geared towards your professional interests, and 700+ clinical hours in counseling. You will tailor your degree by choosing a clinical mental health concentration:
The Adult concentration enhances counseling skills and knowledge needed to support adults in various stages of life while gaining insights into the unique psychological, emotional, and developmental needs of adults and older adults.
PRC 718 – Advanced Counseling Skills
PRC 732 – Human Sexuality
Elective in Counseling, psychology, or social work
The Child and Adolescent concentration is designed for students who wish to work with children and adolescents in a variety of settings: community mental health agencies, school-based mental health counseling, family-based counseling, residential treatment centers, integrative pediatric care, and outpatient counseling. Students will specialize in child-based interventions and get an advanced understanding of assessment and play therapy. Students will also develop an advanced understanding of systemic advocacy and parent consultation to support the development of children and adolescents in their natural environments.
PRC725 – Interventions with Children
PRC749 – Play Therapy
PYM750 – Clinical Assessment of Children and Adolescents or ED 766 Children and the Media
Or School-Based Mental Health Concentration (graduates with 63 credits)
PRC 725 Interventions with Children
PRC 749 Play Therapy
PYM 750 Clinical Assessment of Children and Adolescents or ED 766 Children and the Media
PRC 751 School-Based Mental Health Counseling Field Experience
*Scholarships are available for the School-Based Mental Health Concentration.
The Clinical Evaluation concentration offers an opportunity to develop skills in assessing and diagnosing mental health disorders, conducting comprehensive assessments, interpreting diagnostic criteria, and formulating evidence-based treatment plans, providing essential support to individuals seeking mental health treatment.
PYM740 – Trauma Assessment & Intervention
PYM750 – Clinical Assessment of Children
Elective in Counseling, psychology, or social work
The Corrections concentration involves understanding the complexities of the correctional environment, including the unique psychological and behavioral needs of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals. This concentration focuses on gaining foundational training and skills to work with individuals in the criminal justice system while promoting positive change and reducing recidivism rates.
PYM720 – Foundations of Forensic Psychology or PYM723 – Poverty, Race, Gender in Criminal Justice
PYM721 – Systems of Crime and Justice
PYM722 – Psychology of Deviance
The Trauma-Informed concentration involves gaining an awareness of the pervasive impact of trauma on life experiences and relationships in addition to recognizing trauma’s role in the thoughts, feelings, and worldview of individuals who have experienced trauma.
PRC 718 – Advanced Counseling Skills
PRC 719 – Advanced Crisis Management
Trauma-specific elective in Counseling, psychology, or social work
The Generalist concentration is designed as a comprehensive approach to counseling for individuals passionate about making a difference in diverse communities and prepares students for a wide range of professional opportunities. Students can learn more about these programs by speaking with their Faculty Advisor.
9-credits of electives
The child and adolescent concentration for the Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree includes three courses that address specific interventions, assessment and play therapy. If you choose to concentrate on those who have suffered chronic and/or acute trauma in their lives, you’ll receive training in crisis management, trauma assessment and interventions. You can choose the forensic concentration if you want to work in legal or correctional settings, studying the interaction of mental health with the justice system, the roles of practitioners in the legal system and the unique concerns of this population.
Courses Descriptions for the Professional Counseling Program
“Professional practice, which includes practicum and internship, provides for the application of theory and the development of counseling skills under supervision. These experiences will provide opportunities for students to counsel clients who represent the ethnic and demographic diversity of their community.” – 2016 CACREP Standards: Section 3
During the practicum and internship experience, you will learn and practice, under supervision, a wide array of duties and responsibilities of a professional counselor who is employed at the site placement. These experiences are developmental in nature, as you grow in your competence, skills, and progress from practicum to internship experiences. Over the course of the clinical fieldwork experiences, you will complete a minimum of 700 clinical hours.
Fast track your way into this master’s program by taking graduate courses as a Carlow undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. If you are interested in becoming a professional counselor and you are currently a junior or senior, with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, consider applying for the Accelerated Masters of Professional Counseling Program. You will be able to take up to four (4) graduate level courses which are held on-campus.
Graduate Courses
PRC 708 Ethics and Professional Orientation
PRC 701 Human Growth and Lifespan Development
PRC 702 Social and Cultural Foundations
PRC 710 Counseling Theories
Accelerated Program – Undergraduate Prerequisite Courses
1) PY 122 Lifespan
2) PY 203 Personality Theory
3) PY 285 Intro to Counseling
4) Any additional 3 credits UG Psychology Course(s)
Contact your Carlow Faculty Advisor for details.
You can work in schools, hospitals, correctional facilities, community mental health agencies and private practice. Employment of mental health and substance abuse counselors is projected to grow 25% from 2019 to 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
▸ View the Professional Licensure Disclosure for this program.
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), has granted accreditation to the following programs in the Department of Psychology, Counseling, and Criminology at Carlow University: Addictions Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling through 2029.
The Professional Counseling Program emphasizes high standards of professional competence. The program is committed to its stated mission through ongoing accreditations by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). We emphasize ethical practice and keep current with state and national standards for certification and licensure for practice in clinical practice environments. In addition, we engage in ongoing program development and refinement based on accrediting bodies’ and licensure boards’ developments and recommendations, as well as sensitivity to licensure requirements, and legal and ethical issues.
Sign up for Professional Counseling Recruitment Events
If you are interested in pursuing a career in Professional Counseling by providing individual and group counseling, you can apply for free online. The graduate program admissions process happens on a rolling basis. Our students have undergraduate degrees in a wide array of disciplines from psychology, human services, social work, or other related majors to majors outside of the helping professions.
November 1 or April 1
Fall & Spring
Transfer students can transfer up to 9 credits earned at a CACREP-accredited program. International students can find more information on our International Admissions page.
The Professional Counseling Program’s application deadline for Fall semester is April 1st and November 1st for the Spring semester. We will continue to accept applications for review beyond those deadlines; however, preference will be given to those that applied by the designed deadlines. The preferred deadline for full consideration of graduate assistantship opportunities is February 1st.
Once your completed application is received, the program faculty will review your application materials and the selected applicants will be scheduled for an interview. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Admission decisions include regular, provisional, and conditional admission to the program.
Neal Holmes ’18 said his time at Carlow was a great academic experience that transformed his work and how he sees the world as a human being. “I felt welcomed by the staff and students, and I could feel that there was a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion work in the graduate counseling program. I appreciate the university’s commitment to social justice which is so parallel to my work in the counseling field today.”
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 CACREP-accredited MS in Professional Counseling: Addictions Counseling Track will train you to work with adults and adolescents experiencing one or more addictions (alcohol, prescription drugs or illicit drugs) in a variety of community settings, including addiction/recovery centers, community mental health centers, hospitals and employee assistance programs.
The program is designed to transition you into a career in professional counseling and prepare you to become a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania.
Additionally, this degree enables you to earn 180 hours of required addiction-specific coursework toward becoming a PA certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC).
60 credits
$1,046/credit
2.5 – 3.5 years
On campus
The Addiction Counseling Workforce Impact Project (AC-WIP) is designed to increase the number of master’s level Professional Counselors who specialize and are certified in Addictions Counseling to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania while increasing the awareness and education of community members and professionals. Students enrolled the MS Professional Counseling degree program are eligible for up to $27,600 in scholarship funding and $4,400 in stipends.
For any questions,
Contact: mpc@carlow.edu
The 60-credit M.S. degree in Professional Counseling consists of 51 credits of core courses, 9 credits of Addictions Counseling electives, and 700+ clinical hours in Addictions Counseling.
PRC739 – Substance Abuse Counseling Theories & Interventions
PRC 741 – The Biological Bases of Alcohol & Other Drug Addiction
PRC 743 – Co-Occurring Disorders: Counseling Clients with Substance Abuse & Psychiatric Disorders
The 12-credit graduate certificate consists of four (4) addiction-specific online courses.
PRC 738 – Introduction to Substance Abuse Counseling
PRC739 – Substance Abuse Counseling Theories & Interventions
PRC 741 – The Biological Bases of Alcohol & Other Drug Addiction
PRC 743 – Co-Occurring Disorders: Counseling Clients with Substance Abuse & Psychiatric Disorders
Courses Descriptions for the Professional Counseling Program
“Professional practice, which includes practicum and internship, provides for the application of theory and the development of counseling skills under supervision. These experiences will provide opportunities for students to counsel clients who represent the ethnic and demographic diversity of their community.” – 2016 CACREP Standards: Section 3
During the practicum and internship experience, you will learn and practice, under supervision, a wide array of duties and responsibilities of a professional counselor who is employed at the site placement. These experiences are developmental in nature, as you grow in your competence, skills, and progress from practicum to internship experiences. Over the course of the clinical fieldwork experiences, you will complete a minimum of 700 clinical hours in Addictions Counseling.
Fast track your way into this master’s program by taking graduate courses as a Carlow undergraduate student. Course credits count toward both degrees. If you are interested in becoming a professional counselor and you are currently a junior or senior, with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA, consider applying for the Accelerated Masters of Professional Counseling Program. You will be able to take up to four (4) graduate level courses which are held on-campus.
Graduate Course
PRC 708 Ethics and Professional Orientation
PRC 701 Human Growth and Lifespan Development
PRC 702 Social and Cultural Foundations
PRC 710 Counseling Theories
Accelerated Program – Undergraduate Prerequisite Courses
1) PY 122 Lifespan
2) PY 203 Personality Theory
3) PY 285 Intro to Counseling
4) Any additional 3 credits UG Psychology Course(s)
Contact your Carlow Faculty Advisor for details.
Employment of substance abuse and mental health counselors is projected to grow 25% from 2019 to 2029, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
▸ View the Professional Licensure Disclosure for this program.
The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP), a specialized accrediting body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), has granted accreditation to the following programs in the Department of Psychology, Counseling, and Criminology at Carlow University: Addictions Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling through 2029.
The Professional Counseling Program emphasizes high standards of professional competence. The program is committed to its stated mission through ongoing accreditations by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). We emphasize ethical practice and keep current with state and national standards for certification and licensure for practice in clinical practice environments. In addition, we engage in ongoing program development and refinement based on accrediting bodies’ and licensure boards’ developments and recommendations, as well as sensitivity to licensure requirements, and legal and ethical issues.
Sign up for Professional Counseling Recruitment Events
If you are interested in pursuing a career in Professional Counseling by providing individual and group counseling, you can apply for free online. The graduate program admissions process happens on a rolling basis. Our students have undergraduate degrees in a wide array of disciplines from psychology, human services, social work, or other related majors to majors outside of the helping professions.
November 1 or April 1
Fall & Spring
Transfer students can transfer up to 9 credits earned at a CACREP-accredited program. International students can find more information on our International Admissions page.
The Professional Counseling Program’s application deadline for Fall semester is April 1st and November 1st for the Spring semester. We will continue to accept applications for review beyond those deadlines; however, preference will be given to those that applied by the designed deadlines. The preferred deadline for full consideration of graduate assistantship opportunities is February 1st.
Once your completed application is received, the program faculty will review your application materials and the selected applicants will be scheduled for an interview. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Admission decisions include regular, provisional, and conditional admission to the program.
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 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.
36 credits
$957/credit
As few as 4 semesters
On campus & online
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.
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.
Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online degree option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.
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.
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.”
You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:
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.
anytime
Fall, Spring & Summer
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.”
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 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.
36 credits
$957/credit
As few as 4 semesters
On campus & online
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.
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.
Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online degree option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.
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 ’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.”
You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:
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.
anytime
Fall, Spring & Summer
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.”
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.
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.
36 credits
$957/credit
As few as 4 semesters
On campus, some online
The Educational Psychology concentration consists of three courses: Foundations of Educational Psychology, Systems of Educational Practice, and Thinking, Motivation and Creativity.
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.
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.
You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:
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.
anytime
Fall, Spring & Summer
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 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.
36 credits
$957/credit
As few as 4 semesters
On campus & online
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.
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.
Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online degree option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.
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.
You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:
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.
anytime
Fall, Spring & Summer
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.
If your undergraduate studies are in psychology, criminology or accounting, you will find Carlow’s dual degree in Psychology and Fraud and Forensics highly relevant. It blends the study of motivation, psychopathy and criminal decision making from the Psychology program with the hands-on investigative skill areas of the Fraud and Forensics program.
48 credits
$1,046/credit
As few as 18 months
On campus, some online
The Fraud and Forensics courses focus on financial and cyber-crime investigation, as well as forensic accounting and prevention, detection, investigation and remediation of fraud and white-collar crime. The Psychology courses address personality and developmental differences, and how deviant behavior and beliefs can lead to criminal activities. You’ll study criminal and civil forensic psychology, along with the inherent ethical issues. The dual degree program includes eight courses from Psychology and seven courses from Fraud and Forensics for a total of 46 credits. You must satisfy the requirements of both programs before the degrees are conferred.
With the dual degree, you will be prepared to work in jobs in the civil and criminal court system, in fraud detection and investigation, and within corporations and government where financial and cyber-crimes are most prevalent.
Many master’s-level graduate students immediately pursue doctoral degrees in related fields. Some Psychology and Fraud and Forensics dual degree students enroll in law school or doctoral programs in psychology or criminology.
You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:
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.
anytime
Fall, Spring & Summer
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 Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate allows students who already have a Master’s of Science in Nursing to be certified as nurse practitioners for women’s health. The post-master’s nursing certificate will prepare you for advanced practice nursing in OB/GYN offices, hospital-based women’s clinics, inpatient prenatal and postpartum settings, and clinics in both urban and rural medically underserved communities.
Graduates are eligible to be certified as women’s health nurse practitioners across the life span.
Once certified, women’s health nurse practitioners work in a variety of settings where they provide preventive care such as well-woman exams, breast cancer screenings, Pap tests or contraceptive care. WHNPs may also provide adolescent health care, pregnancy testing, fertility evaluation, prenatal visits, after-pregnancy care and menopausal care.
35 credits
$918/credit
As few as 27 months
On campus or online
You will complete 35 course credits as well as 600 clinical hours, which may take place in a variety of urban and rural health care agencies in the Pittsburgh region.
Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online certificate option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.
Employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow 45% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
For 75 Years, Carlow University’s School of Nursing has been dedicated to educating and empowering nurses who make a significant impact on healthcare as clinicians, educators, leaders, and researchers. As we look to the future, Carlow University remains devoted to creating ethical leaders who strive to build a more just and merciful world.
You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:
Also, you must have:
anytime
Fall
An undergraduate and graduate 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. No GRE or GMAT required.
Once your application is received, the program director will schedule an interview with you.
If you are interested in this certificate program, our Admissions team is available to assist you with the next steps.
The Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s Certificate allows students who already have a Master’s of Science in Nursing to be certified as nurse practitioners for individuals and families. The post-master’s certificate will prepare you for advanced practice nursing in home health agencies, physicians’ offices, health maintenance organizations, family health centers, and clinics in both urban and rural communities.
Upon graduation, you will be eligible to be certified as family/individual nurse practitioners across the life span.
As a certified nurse practitioner, you’ll diagnose and treat acute, episodic or chronic illness, working with a physician and as part of a health care team. Nurse practitioners may order, perform or interpret diagnostic tests such as lab work and X-rays and may prescribe medication.
36 credits
$918/credit
As few as 27 months
On campus or online
You will complete 36 course credits as well as 600 clinical hours, which may take place in a variety of urban and rural health care agencies in the Pittsburgh region.
Gain the knowledge you need at your convenience with our online certificate option. When applying, indicate your interest in the online option.
Employment of nurse practitioners is projected to grow 45% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
For 75 Years, Carlow University’s School of Nursing has been dedicated to educating and empowering nurses who make a significant impact on healthcare as clinicians, educators, leaders, and researchers. As we look to the future, Carlow University remains devoted to creating ethical leaders who strive to build a more just and merciful world.
You can apply for free online, and must submit the following materials:
Also, you must have:
anytime
Fall & Spring
An undergraduate and graduate 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. No GRE or GMAT required.
Once your application is received, the program director will schedule an interview with you.
If you are interested in this certificate program, our Admissions team is available to assist you with the next steps.
