University of Dayton

What you'll study

The programme combines core coursework in psychological theory and research with applied training in assessment, intervention and professional ethics. You will study evidence‑based approaches to psychotherapy, diagnostic conceptualisation and psychopathology across the lifespan, as well as advanced research methods and statistics. Core subject areas typically include:

• Clinical assessment and diagnosis – standardized testing, diagnostic interviewing and differential diagnosis.
• Psychotherapy and counselling approaches – cognitive‑behavioural therapy, psychodynamic and humanistic approaches, brief interventions and group therapy.
• Psychopathology and developmental perspectives – major mental disorders, lifespan considerations and comorbidity.
• Research methods and applied statistics – research design, data analysis and evidence appraisal.
• Ethics, law and professional issues – confidentiality, multicultural competence and professional standards.
• Practicum and supervised clinical training – direct client contact in on‑campus or community placements with faculty supervision.

Students usually complete a practicum sequence and an applied capstone or research project that integrates clinical skills with empirical inquiry. Cohort sizes tend to support small‑group learning, close faculty mentoring and opportunities for clinical experience in the University of Dayton’s training clinic and partner agencies in the wider community.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree, preferably in psychology or a closely related field. Typical admissions components include:

• Academic transcript showing satisfactory undergraduate performance; some prior coursework in psychology (such as introductory psychology, research methods and statistics) is usually required or recommended.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s readiness for graduate study and clinical work.
• Personal statement outlining professional goals, relevant experience and reasons for applying to this programme.
• CV or résumé detailing relevant academic, research or helping experience.
• Interview – some applicants may be invited to interview as part of the selection process.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or equivalent. Additional requirements such as background checks or immunisations may apply for clinical placements. Specific GPA thresholds or test score requirements are set by the admissions office and should be checked on the university’s official programme pages.

Career prospects

Graduates from this master’s programme pursue a range of careers in mental health and allied settings. Common pathways include roles as:

• Counselling practitioners and mental health therapists in community agencies, non‑profit organisations and private practice (licensure and additional supervised hours depend on regional regulatory requirements).
• Behavioural health specialists, case managers or programme coordinators in hospitals, clinics and social service organisations.
• Clinical research assistants or coordinators supporting academic and applied research projects.
• School support staff, rehabilitation providers or employee‑assistance programme counsellors (role eligibility varies by local certification rules).

Many graduates also use the master’s as preparation for doctoral training (PhD or PsyD) or for specialist certifications. The programme’s practicum focus helps students build a supervised client contact record that is useful for licensure and further clinical training.

Why study at University of Dayton

The University of Dayton offers a programme that emphasises practical clinical training within a values‑based, student‑centred environment. The psychology department is known for close faculty mentoring, opportunities for supervised practicum in an on‑campus training clinic and collaborations with community mental health providers in the Dayton area. Students benefit from small class sizes, active research programmes and support services for graduate professional development.

Additionally, the university’s focus on experiential learning and community engagement means students gain applied experience working with diverse populations, preparing them for ethical, culturally responsive practice in a variety of professional settings.