City University of Seattle

What you'll study

This programme combines core psychological science with applied counselling and clinical practice. You will study foundational topics alongside skills-based modules and a supervised practicum or internship to bridge theory and workplace practice.

• Foundations of Psychology: introduction to psychological science, biological bases of behaviour, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology across the lifespan.
• Clinical and Counselling Core: counselling theories and techniques (including cognitive-behavioural approaches), abnormal psychology, diagnosis and case conceptualisation, psychotherapeutic ethics and professional issues.
• Applied Skills and Assessment: psychological assessment methods, interviewing skills, brief intervention strategies, group facilitation and crisis intervention.
• Research and Quantitative Methods: statistics for psychology, research design, critical appraisal of evidence and a research methods or capstone project.
• Contextual and Diversity Studies: multicultural counselling, community psychology, human development and social determinants of mental health.
• Practicum/Internship: supervised field placement in clinical, community or healthcare settings to develop applied competencies and professional conduct; placements are supported by faculty supervision and reflective practice components.
• Electives and Integrative Work: options may include forensic psychology, substance misuse interventions, organisational psychology, or courses focused on specialised assessment techniques.

The degree typically includes general education requirements alongside major courses. Assessment methods combine essays, case reports, practical demonstrations, placement assessments and a research or capstone project.

Entry requirements

City University of Seattle seeks applicants with a solid academic background and a clear interest in applied psychology. Typical entry expectations include:

• Completion of secondary education or equivalent recognised high-school qualification.
• A satisfactory academic profile—most applicants meet a minimum grade/GPA threshold; exact requirements depend on your educational system and admissions pathway.
• Proof of English language proficiency for international applicants (examples include recognised tests or prior instruction in English), where required.
• Official transcripts from prior study and a personal statement outlining your interest in psychology and relevant experience or goals.
• Some applicants may be invited to a short interview or provide references; prior experience in human services, volunteering or work with diverse populations can strengthen an application.

There are also transfer pathways for students with college-level credits; mature learners with relevant professional experience are considered through alternative admissions routes.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of entry-level roles in health, social care and community settings and are well positioned to pursue postgraduate professional training. Common career paths include:

• Behavioural health technician, support worker or case manager in community mental health services.
• Rehabilitation specialist, youth worker or family support practitioner in non-profit and public-sector agencies.
• Research assistant or project coordinator in academic, clinical or public-health research teams.
• Roles in employee assistance programmes, human resources or organisational support functions where people skills and assessment knowledge are valued.
• Progression to graduate study (for example counselling, clinical psychology, social work, marriage and family therapy or specialised counselling qualifications) leading to licenced practitioner roles.

The programme’s practicum and career support help build professional networks and practical experience sought by employers and graduate programmes.

Why study at City University of Seattle

City University of Seattle emphasises an applied, career-oriented approach to psychology with flexible delivery options designed for working students. Key reasons to choose this university include:

• Applied focus: course content is organised to develop practical counselling and assessment skills alongside theoretical knowledge.
• Local practicum opportunities: proximity to a wide range of community, health and social service organisations in the Seattle region supports supervised field placements.
• Experienced faculty: instructors often have professional backgrounds in counselling, clinical practice and community mental health, bringing real-world perspectives into teaching.
• Flexible scheduling: options for evening and blended learning formats make the programme accessible to part-time and working students.
• Pathways to professional training: the curriculum is structured to support progression to postgraduate qualifications and credentialing required for clinical and counselling careers.

Together these features provide a balance of academic rigour and hands-on experience for students aiming to enter helping professions or continue to graduate-level clinical training.