Graduate Programs

Psychology Psychology

Whether you want to focus on research, put your education to practice or share your knowledge in the classroom, UNCW’s Department of Psychology has graduate programs at the master’s and doctoral levels to meet your career goals.

Master of Science Degree Program

Your Choice of Three Concentrations

Two areas of concentration are primarily research focused, and the third is research and clinically focused, with a shared set of program goals and student learning outcomes. Each concentration emphasizes the scientific methods and principles common to all fields of psychology. All students participate in supervised research, and a thesis is required.

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Students in all three concentrations complete a research-methods sequence, a core of coursework in psychology, a comprehensive exam, and an empirical thesis. Students enrolled in the Applied Behavior Analysis concentration complete additional coursework emphasizing clinical and behavior analytic concepts and skills.

Areas of master's degree concentration

Applied Behavior Analysis Focus on the conceptual and methodological foundations of behavior analysis and take a data-based approach to behavioral assessment and clinical psychology. Learn More

Psychological Science Prepare for doctoral study in clinical, social, neuroscience and other areas. Become a researcher, administrator or college-level psychology instructor. Details

Neuroscience & Behavior Prepare for doctoral programs in neuroscience, behavioral neuroscience and related fields. Explore

PH.D. Program

$Students studying in Psychology Lab$

Your Degree Your Way

With three areas of concentration, we not only provide training for specific pursuits within our own field, but we also provide instruction that translates to the disciplines of education, nursing, medicine, social work, business and law. Psychological literacy is achieved through active learning experiences, resulting in an improved ability to analyze and communicate. You will be equipped to translate basic science into clinical application and address societal challenges.

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The Ph.D. program in general clinical psychology is accredited on contingency by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association, effective April 11, 2021. The current accreditation expires April 11, 2026.