Clinical Psychological Science (M.S.)
WELCOME TO THE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE M.S. PROGRAM
The University of Delaware introduces the new Master of Science in Clinical Psychological Science, offered through the Institute for Community Mental Health (ICMH). This innovative program meets the rising demand for skilled mental health professionals. The curriculum blends scientific rigor with clinical practice, ensuring that graduates are proficient in evidence-based interventions while also equipped as pioneers in advancing mental health care.
Led by the distinguished clinical science faculty from UD’s Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, the program emphasizes a deep understanding of psychological theory, research methodology, and clinical application. Students engage in state-of-the-art training, conduct impactful research, and deliver essential mental health services to the community, all within the supportive and collaborative environment of the ICMH. With this program, UD aims to cultivate the next generation of mental health leaders who will not only provide high-quality care but also contribute to the evolving landscape of mental health science. This new degree offering reflects the University’s commitment to addressing societal mental health needs with compassion, innovation and scientific excellence.
Why choose our program?
The M.S. program is distinguished by several unique features:
- Scientific Excellence — The curriculum is deeply rooted in scientific methodologies that underpin evidence-based practices in mental health care. You can gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge clinical psychological science laboratories, engaging in impactful research that bridges theory and practice. You are trained as a clinician who thinks critically about the science behind your work and applies evidence-based interventions with a clear understanding of your empirical foundations.
- Evidence-Based Practices Focus — Emphasizing empirically supported treatments, the program prepares you to deliver the highest standard of psychological care across diverse settings. Whether you're headed into private practice or a career within integrated healthcare systems, you'll be equipped to tackle a range of mental health conditions with evidence-based strategies.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities – Located in the STAR Tower on the University of Delaware’s Health Sciences campus, the program offers unparalleled access to advanced research and clinical training facilities. The ICMH’s interdisciplinary environment fosters collaboration with other health clinics on campus, creating a dynamic space for innovative clinical work and research.
- Pathway to Licensure and Accreditation — Our program aligns with the licensing requirements set by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) and the accreditation standards of the American Psychological Association (APA). This ensures you are well-prepared to become licensed mental health professionals in the majority of states across the United States.
- C-TECC Opportunities: The Institute for Community Mental Health is also home to the Center for Training, Evaluation, and Community Collaboration (C-TECC). This center offers students unique opportunities to engage with the mental health systems across Delaware and the Mid-Atlantic region to disseminate, implement and evaluate evidence-based practices that serve the community.
Program Highlights
- Comprehensive Clinical Training — Begin your journey with closely supervised clinical practica that offers real-world experience working with diverse populations in integrated care settings.
- Master’s Thesis — Engage in cutting-edge clinical research with guidance from nationally and internationally recognized experts. Your thesis project will deepen your understanding of psychological interventions and enhance your ability to apply and evaluate clinical research.
- Expert Faculty and Mentorship — Learn from faculty members who are leading voices in psychopathology, intervention research, and evidence-based treatments. Our faculty are dedicated to providing personalized support and mentorship throughout your academic journey.
- Diverse and Inclusive Training — We are committed to fostering a diverse and bilingual student body. Our graduates are prepared to serve a broad range of communities, including traditionally underserved populations.
- Small Class Sizes — Our program’s intimate class sizes ensure personalized attention and a supportive training environment, allowing for meaningful interactions with faculty and peers.
Start your journey today!
Join us in making a profound impact on mental health care. The M.S. in Clinical Psychological Science at UD provides the scientific foundation, practical training and supportive environment you need to excel as a clinician and researcher. Discover how you can be part of a pioneering program that is shaping the future of mental health care.
Admissions Information
The deadline for graduate applications is March 1. We admit students for fall admission only.
For more information regarding the criteria for admission please refer to the Graduate College website. For more information regarding the Graduate College application process please refer to Applying to UD.
Requirements
- Minimum GPA: 3.0 in a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Required coursework: Introductory courses in psychology, research methods, measurement, and statistics are essential. Additional coursework in affective, biological, cognitive, social, and developmental psychology is strongly recommended.
Questions? Contact our program directors.
Program Degree Requirements
This 60-credit, full-time program is designed to be completed in three years: two years of intensive coursework and supervised clinical practice, followed by a clinical internship experience.
Suggested Course of Study
PSYC821: Intelligence & Achievement Testing |
PSYC681: Intro to Ethics and Clinical Practice |
PSYC867: Intro to Clinical Science |
PSYC683: Clinical Research Design |
PSYC819: Child Psychotherapy - Empirically-Supported Treatments |
PSYC829: Advanced Psychopathology |
PSYC827: Adult Psychotherapy - Empirically-Supported Treatments |
PSYC820: Psychodiagnostic Assessment |
PSYC868: Research |
PSYC800: PBS Colloquia |
PSYC685: Integrated Behavioral Healthcare & Consultation |
PSYC835: Supervised Practice in Clinical Psychology |
PSYC687: Diversity in Clinical Practice |
PSYC869: Master’s Thesis |
PSYC800: PBS Colloquia |
600/800 Level Advanced Elective in Students' Area of Interest (Biological, Social, Cognitive, Developmental, Affective Aspects of Behavior) |
PSYC834: Supervised Practice in Clinical Psychology |
PSYC689: Intro to Supervision |
PSYC869: Master’s Thesis |
PSYC800: PBS Colloquia |
PSYC835: Supervised Practice in Clinical Psychology |
UNIV554: University Internship Semester |
UNIV554: University Internship Semester |
Master's Thesis
In addition to clinical training experiences, all students pursuing the M.S. in Clinical Psychological Science at UD will be required to complete and defend a master’s thesis project prior to their graduation from the program. This master’s thesis project is taken as PSYC 868 over three semesters for three credit hours per term. Students will work closely with program faculty to determine the type of project based on students’ interest and training goals (e.g., original research study, literature review, case study, paper presentation). Students begin working on their research thesis project in the spring of their first year, propose their project by the end of the fall of their second year, and orally defend their thesis in the spring of their second year.
