University of Minnesota

What you'll study

The programme combines core psychological science with applied clinical and counselling training. Coursework typically covers psychopathology, theories and techniques of psychotherapy (cognitive‑behavioural, psychodynamic, humanistic and integrative approaches), psychological assessment and testing, ethics and professional issues, and multicultural competency in clinical practice.

Students also receive rigorous training in research methods and statistics, evidence-based practice, and consultation/intervention in community and health-care settings. The degree normally includes supervised clinical practicum placements in community mental‑health centres, university clinics or partnering organisations, and a capstone, clinical portfolio or research project that integrates applied work with scholarly inquiry.

• Core topics: abnormal psychology, psychotherapy theories, assessment and measurement, research design and statistics
• Applied skills: individual and group therapy techniques, intake/diagnostic interviewing, crisis intervention, case conceptualisation
• Professional training: clinical ethics, cultural humility, interdisciplinary collaboration, record keeping and legal issues
• Practicum and supervision: client contact hours under licensed supervisor(s) in community or university settings

Entry requirements

Applicants usually need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution; a degree in psychology or substantial coursework in psychology is preferred because of foundational statistics and research-methods content. Admissions typically consider undergraduate GPA, academic references, a personal statement outlining clinical and research interests, and a CV or résumé documenting relevant experience.

Some programmes request evidence of research potential or prior clinical exposure (volunteer, internship, or paid work). GRE requirements vary or may be optional; international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test unless exempt. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission—selection is competitive and weighs fit with faculty and training resources.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of applied mental‑health and community roles. Common entry-level positions include counsellor or therapist in community agencies, behavioural health specialist, case manager, psychometrist or testing technician, research coordinator, and programme or clinical support roles in hospitals, schools and non‑profits.

The degree also provides a pathway to advanced clinical training: many students use the master’s to strengthen their profile for PhD or PsyD programmes or to complete the supervised hours required by some jurisdictions for licensure as professional counsellors or related credentials. Career outcomes depend on local licensing rules and whether graduates pursue additional supervised practice or certification.

Why study at University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota offers a well‑established psychology department with faculty who combine active research programmes and clinical training. Students benefit from onsite training clinics and practicum partnerships across the Twin Cities health and social‑service network, providing exposure to a diverse client population and multidisciplinary practice settings.

The department emphasises rigorous methods and evidence‑based practice, so students get strong research and statistical preparation alongside hands‑on clinical supervision. Interdisciplinary opportunities with allied units—such as public health, medicine and social work—support flexible career planning and applied project work relevant to contemporary mental‑health challenges.