Master of Psychology

Master of Arts in Psychology (MAP)

About the Degree

Graduates with a Master of Arts in Psychology have the foundational methodology and experience for many different career fields. This degree prepares students for immediate employment in a range of professional environments including community college teaching, law enforcement agencies, and private industry. This degree does not provide training that leads to licensure, which is required for independent practice.

The Master of Arts in Psychology serves three broad groups:

  • students who wish to acquire knowledge in psychology to advance an already established career path
  • students who have an interest in future doctoral-level training, but who need additional preparation to apply competitively for such a program
  • students who have a general interest in learning more about psychology and human behavior

Master of Arts in Psychology students  acquire the following student learning outcomes:

  • Students will demonstrate proficient knowledge of the basic research skills in psychology.
  • Students will demonstrate their ability to successfully propose and complete a master’s thesis.

Each student in the program will propose their own research project as a Thesis. Working through three courses, PSYC 6320, PSYC 6324, and PSYC 6199, with a committee, and under the guidance of a faculty advisor, students will propose, conduct, and present their research Thesis. This original piece of scholarship will not only allow students to focus on a psychology area of their own interest, but will also prepare them for a career in psychology or for additional degrees in higher education.

  • Top Ten Reasons to get your Master of Psychology at HCU
    1. The Christian environment at Houston Christian University affirms all persons in and out of the classroom and facilitates high standards in one’s personal code of conduct
    2. The convenience and flexibility of course offerings make it possible for students to work full-time and still carry a full-time course load
    3. There is a low student/professor ratio which allows for students to receive individual attention and mentoring
    4. The wide range of coursework that students are required to take is conducive to students narrowing their focus within the field of psychology
    5. The courses are taught by doctoral-level professors and professionals in the field of psychology
    6. Students who are admitted to the program have an opportunity to conduct, present and publish original research
    7. The program prepares students for doctoral study in psychology
    8. HCU’s beautiful, serene campus is nestled within a flourishing international city
    9. The program prepares students for admittance to graduate programs leading to licensure
    10. The program is designed to value, appreciate and develop students’ unique gifts and talents
  • What Can I Do With My Master of Arts Degree in Psychology?

    The following examples represent professional settings in which graduates with a Master of Arts in Psychology may be hired:

    • Research
    • Human Behavior

    The following examples represent career paths graduates with a Master of Arts in Psychology may pursue:

    • Continued higher education, PhD or PsyD programs
    • Academia
    • Community College teaching
    • Law Enforcement Agencies
    • Private Industry
  • Advantages and Opportunities: Careers in Psychology

    Graduates with a Master of Arts in Psychology may obtain employment in a range of settings including community college teaching, law enforcement agencies and private industry. The Master of Arts in Psychology does not provide training that leads to licensure, and therefore, does not lead to independent practice.


Program Coordinator

For more information about the Master of Arts in Psychology (MAP) degree, please contact Dr. Julienne King (jking@hbu.edu).

Degree Plan: Master of Psychology

[PDF] Master of Arts in Psychology Requirements