Dominican University of California

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational psychological science with applied clinical skills. Core topics typically include psychopathology, diagnostic assessment, clinical interviewing, psychotherapeutic theories and interventions (including cognitive‑behavioural, psychodynamic, humanistic and family systems approaches), multicultural competence, ethics and professional issues, and lifespan developmental psychology.

Students also study research methods and applied statistics to understand and evaluate empirical literature, and take specialised modules in areas such as trauma and crisis intervention, child and adolescent therapy, couples and family therapy, group therapy, substance use and co‑occurring disorders, and assessment and measurement.

A key component is supervised clinical training: practicum placements in community agencies, school settings or university clinics that provide direct client contact, and a culminating internship that further develops assessment, treatment planning and clinical decision‑making under supervision. Many students complete case presentations, video‑recorded sessions for supervision, and a capstone or research project that integrates clinical practice with current evidence.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related discipline from an accredited institution. Applicants with degrees in other fields may be considered if they demonstrate relevant coursework, experience, or preparation.
• A competitive undergraduate GPA; minimum programme thresholds are set by the university and vary by year and applicant pool.
• Transcripts, a personal statement outlining clinical interests and professional goals, and a current curriculum vitae or résumé.
• Letters of recommendation (typically two or three) from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s suitability for graduate clinical training.
• Relevant clinical or volunteer experience in mental health, social services, education, or related settings is strongly preferred and can strengthen an application.
• Some applicants may be invited to an interview; prerequisite coursework in research methods and introductory psychology is advantageous. International applicants must meet the university’s language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to pursue licensure and employment as professional clinicians and counsellors in a range of settings. Common career paths include positions as mental health clinicians in community mental health centres, hospital behavioural health units, substance use treatment programmes, school and college counselling services (often with additional certification), and private practice upon meeting licensure requirements.

Other roles include case management, programme coordination, clinical supervision (with further experience and credentials), and work in non‑profit or governmental agencies focused on mental health, trauma, or family services. The MA also serves as preparation for doctoral study (PhD or PsyD) for those interested in research or advanced clinical training.

Why study at Dominican University of California

• Practice‑focused training within small cohort groups that emphasises hands‑on clinical experience and close faculty mentorship.
• Strong community partnerships and practicum placements throughout the Bay Area, giving access to diverse client populations and real‑world clinical settings.
• Faculty who combine academic expertise with active clinical practice, offering supervision grounded in evidence‑based approaches and multicultural competence.
• A curriculum designed to support licensure preparation and ethical professional practice, with coursework and supervised hours aligned to state licensing requirements.
• An institutional commitment to social justice, diversity and inclusion, which is reflected in coursework, practicum opportunities and community engagement initiatives.