Georgetown University

What you'll study

The programme covers foundational and advanced topics in psychological science. Core modules typically include research methods and statistics, psychological assessment, and contemporary theories of cognition, social behaviour and development. Elective modules allow focused study in areas such as clinical and abnormal psychology, neuropsychology, health psychology, organisational/industrial psychology, and developmental psychology.

Students commonly combine coursework with a substantive research component: options include a supervised thesis or a capstone research project. Many students also take part in research labs, internships or practicum placements that provide hands-on experience with assessment, clinical interviewing, programme evaluation or experimental methods. Teaching in the programme emphasises critical appraisal of literature, statistical competence (including multivariate techniques and mixed-methods approaches), and ethical practice in research and applied settings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold an undergraduate degree from a recognised institution, preferably in psychology or a related discipline such as cognitive science, neuroscience, sociology or biological sciences. Successful candidates typically demonstrate strong academic performance, research experience or related professional experience, and clear motivation for graduate study.

Application materials usually include an academic transcript, a personal statement outlining research interests and career goals, a curriculum vitae, and two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees. Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores, though requirements can vary; international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests unless exempt.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of paths depending on their focus within the programme. Common trajectories include:

• Progression to doctoral programmes (PhD or PsyD) in psychology and related research careers.
• Research and evaluation roles, such as research assistant, clinical research coordinator, or programme evaluator in university, healthcare or private-sector settings.
• Applied roles in mental health services and community organisations, often combined with further clinical training or certification where licensure is required.
• Positions in policy, public health, education, or human resources where skills in assessment, data analysis and evidence-based practice are valued.
• User experience and market research roles that draw on psychological theory and experimental methods.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown University offers access to a community of researchers and clinicians working across psychology, neuroscience and public policy, providing interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities. The programme benefits from the university's location in Washington, D.C., which facilitates internships and partnerships with hospitals, research institutes, government agencies and NGOs.

Students gain mentorship from faculty with active research programmes, and can tap into university resources such as research centres, lab facilities and professional development services. Small cohort sizes and an emphasis on research training help prepare graduates for competitive doctoral programmes and applied careers that require strong quantitative and analytic skills.