University of Dayton

What you'll study

This programme combines core psychological science with applied coursework and supervised field experience. You will study topics that include human development, abnormal psychology, counselling theories, psychological assessment, research methods and statistics. The curriculum emphasises evidence-based intervention, multicultural competence and ethical practice.

• Foundations: introductory psychology, developmental psychology, biological bases of behaviour and learning theory.
• Clinical and counselling core: abnormal psychology, counselling theories and techniques, psychopathology, crisis intervention and ethics in professional practice.
• Assessment and skills: psychometrics and psychological assessment, interviewing skills, case formulation and treatment planning.
• Research and quantitative methods: statistics for psychology, research methods, and a laboratory or independent research project, including opportunities to work alongside faculty on ongoing studies.
• Applied experience: practicum or internship placements in community agencies, schools, hospitals or other settings providing direct client contact under supervision.
• Capstone and electives: a senior seminar or capstone project integrating theory, research and applied experience; electives may cover topics such as child and adolescent psychopathology, substance use, health psychology and multicultural issues.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education with a strong academic record. Successful candidates typically present coursework in mathematics and the sciences from secondary school; prior study in social sciences or biology is helpful but not always required. The University of Dayton considers the whole application, including academic transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) may be optional depending on current admissions policies.

For international applicants, an equivalent secondary-school qualification is required plus proof of English proficiency where applicable (for example TOEFL or IELTS), in line with University of Dayton admissions standards. Transfer applicants should supply college transcripts and descriptions of completed coursework for credit evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with strong preparation for entry-level roles in human services and for further professional training. Typical career paths include positions as behavioural health technicians, case managers, research assistants, behavioural therapists, program coordinators in community mental health agencies, school support roles and rehabilitation services. Many graduates proceed to postgraduate study in clinical psychology, counselling, social work, marriage and family therapy or related fields in order to qualify for licensure and advanced clinical roles.

The degree also provides transferable skills valued by employers—critical thinking, data literacy, interpersonal communication and ethical decision-making—that are useful in fields such as public health, criminal justice, education and business.

Why study at University of Dayton

The University of Dayton offers a student-centred psychology education with relatively small class sizes and close faculty supervision. The department emphasises experiential learning through supervised practicum placements, internships and research opportunities, allowing students to apply classroom learning in community settings. The University’s mission encourages service, social responsibility and attention to ethical practice, which aligns with applied training in clinical and counselling contexts.

Students benefit from faculty mentorship, active research labs and partnerships with local mental health providers and schools for practicum placements. These elements combine to prepare graduates both for immediate applied work and for successful progression to graduate programmes in mental health professions.