Troy University

What you'll study

The programme blends core psychological science with applied clinical and counselling skills. Typical study areas include advanced research methods and statistics, psychopathology and diagnostic assessment, evidence-based counselling and psychotherapy approaches, psychological testing and assessment, ethics and professional issues, multicultural competence, and applied behavioural interventions.

Students usually choose between a thesis, practicum/capstone or internship track. A sustained practicum component places students in community mental health centres, school or university counselling services, hospitals and specialised agencies under faculty supervision. Coursework emphasises clinical formulation, case conceptualisation, individual and group interventions, crisis assessment, and outcomes evaluation.

Modules you can expect include (but are not limited to):

• Advanced Research Methods and Psychometrics
• Psychopathology and Diagnostic Systems
• Counselling Theories and Techniques
• Assessment and Psychological Testing
• Ethics, Law and Professional Practice
• Multicultural and Community Mental Health
• Practicum / Clinical Supervision
• Applied Behavioural Interventions or Specialized Electives (e.g. substance misuse, trauma, couples work)

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an accredited bachelor's degree in psychology or a closely related discipline. A demonstrated academic record in foundational psychology topics (such as introductory psychology, statistics and research methods) is typically required; applicants lacking some foundations may be asked to complete prerequisite courses.

Typical application materials include official transcripts, a personal statement outlining professional goals and clinical interests, two or more academic or professional references, and a current CV. Some applicants may be invited to an interview. International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements.

Because the programme includes clinical placements, applicants should be able to meet background-screening and health-check requirements, including any immunisation or clear-record checks required by placement providers.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across health, education and community sectors. Common career destinations include positions as counsellors in community mental health services, school or college counselling, case management and therapeutic roles in hospitals and residential settings, and support roles within substance-misuse and trauma services. Many graduates progress to private practice after completing required supervised hours and meeting state or national licensure requirements where applicable.

The programme also provides preparation for further professional training, including doctoral-level clinical psychology or counselling psychology programmes, and academic or research careers for those who pursue the thesis option. Additional transferable careers include human resources, organisational wellbeing, and programme development in social and health services.

Why study at Troy University

Troy University offers a pragmatic blend of academic rigour and applied training, with access to local practicum placements across diverse community settings. The department emphasises small-group teaching and faculty supervision to support skill development in assessment, intervention and clinical decision-making.

The university provides flexible delivery options, including on-campus and online course elements, which can suit working professionals. Students benefit from faculty with clinical practice experience, opportunities to engage in applied research, and links to regional health and educational providers for supervised training. Troy's focus on student support and career preparation helps graduates transition from study into applied psychological practice or further professional qualifications.