Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

The Master's in Psychology curriculum combines core training in research design, quantitative and qualitative methods, and advanced psychological theory with elective specialisation options. Students study foundational topics such as cognitive, developmental and social psychology alongside advanced courses in statistics, psychometrics, and research ethics. Depending on the chosen track, typical modules and learning experiences include:

• Research Methods and Statistics – advanced statistics, experimental design, multivariate analysis and programme evaluation.
• Theoretical Areas – seminars covering cognition, neuropsychology, lifespan development, personality and social processes.
• Applied Practice – practicum or internship placements in community agencies, schools or clinical settings to develop applied assessment and intervention skills.
• Assessment and Measurement – training in psychological testing, instrument development and interpretation of assessment data.
• Capstone or Thesis – completion of an independent thesis, research project, or applied capstone practicum under faculty supervision; options depend on the chosen programme pathway.
• Electives and Specialisation – options to focus on areas such as health psychology, developmental science, cognitive neuroscience, forensic psychology or industrial/organisational psychology, subject to availability.

Course delivery typically blends seminars, lab-based research, supervised fieldwork and independent study. Students work closely with faculty on original research or applied projects and are encouraged to present at conferences or publish where appropriate.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree. A degree in psychology is advantageous because it provides foundational coursework in areas such as introductory psychology, research methods and statistics, but applicants from related disciplines with appropriate preparation may be considered. Usual application materials include:

• Official transcripts detailing previous academic study.
• A personal statement outlining academic interests, career goals and proposed area of study or research.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• A current CV or résumé summarising relevant experience.

Some applicants may be asked to provide examples of academic writing or a brief research proposal. Admission decisions are based on the quality of prior academic preparation, fit with faculty expertise and the availability of supervisory capacity or practicum placements. International applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements and provide equivalent documentation of prior study.

Career prospects

Graduates of NAU's master's-level psychology programmes pursue a range of career paths in both applied and research settings. Typical roles include:

• Research assistant or coordinator in university, hospital or private research settings.
• Behavioural health technician, case manager or programme specialist in community mental health and social services.
• School or educational support roles, including behavioural intervention and student services (with appropriate certification where required).
• Human resources, organisational development and training roles in public and private sectors.
• Further graduate study leading to doctoral-level qualifications (PhD or PsyD) for those pursuing licensure as clinical psychologists or careers in academic research.

The programme emphasises transferable skills valued by employers: critical thinking, quantitative analysis, research design, assessment and structured intervention planning. Supervised practicum placements and faculty networks help students build professional connections and applied experience.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers graduate psychology training with an emphasis on close faculty mentoring, opportunities for hands‑on research and regional practicum partnerships. Students benefit from small class sizes that allow personalised supervision and collaboration on ongoing research projects across areas such as cognitive neuroscience, developmental science and applied community psychology.

NAU's location provides access to a variety of practicum sites and community partners across urban and rural settings, which is valuable for applied training and field research. In addition, the university supports graduate students through opportunities for teaching and research assistantships, departmental colloquia and professional development workshops. Prospective students are encouraged to review faculty research interests and contact potential supervisors to discuss fit and available opportunities before applying.