USM | Psychology Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need to have a bachelor's degree in psychology?

What are the qualifications of the faculty?

Does this program prepare students for licensure in the mental health field?

What if I am not interested in pursuing licensure?

How long does it take to complete the program?

What do I need to know about practicum?

Does the University assist the student in finding a practicum placement?

Is financial aid available?

Do I need to have a bachelor's degree in psychology?
No, applicants not majoring in psychology may be accepted if they have completed coursework in the following areas:

general or introductory psychology
social psychology or personality psychology
developmental psychology
psychological disorders

Exceptions may be made, after reviewing your application materials the program coordinator determines that you have demonstrated the ability to be successful in a graduate psychology program.

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What are the qualifications of the faculty?
Our classes are taught by a balanced combination of both full-time and adjunct faculty who have expertise in numerous areas of psychology. Faculty in the graduate psychology program hold doctorate degrees in psychology or related professions. The majority are licensed to practice in the mental health field.

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Does this program prepare students for licensure in the mental health field? USM's program offers the coursework needed to pursue licensure as a Professional Counselor (LPC) in Missouri and Kansas or a Masters Level Psychologist (LMLP) in Kansas. Students wishing to pursue licensure as a LPC in Missouri complete the counseling track which is 48 credits and includes a 6 credit practicum. Students wishing to pursue licensure as a LPC or LMLP in Kansas complete the counseling track as well as additional coursework offered through the University of Saint Mary. These students complete 60 graduate credits including a 15 credit practicum. The USM program does not guarantee licensure, which is granted by the individual states.

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What if I am not interested in pursuing licensure?
The general M.A. Psychology Degree may help students to pursue continued study in psychology. (It is recommended that students wishing to pursue doctoral degrees research the admission requirements of programs in their area of interest.) Many students also pursue the M.A. Psychology Degree in order to advance in a related field.

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How long does it take to complete the program?
The length of time needed to complete the program depends on your professional goals and whether or not you plan to take classes full or part time. Courses are offered once a year and follow a rotation. Course Rotation

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What do I need to know about practicum?
Students pursuing the Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology will complete a practicum at a site approved by the graduate psychology program coordinator. You will enroll in practicum during your last year of the program after you have completed the necessary prerequisite coursework. Although some practicum activities can be completed during the evening, successful completion of the practicum usually requires you to have some availability in your schedule during the normal work week.

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Does the University assist the student in finding a practicum placement?
We will assist you in finding a practicum placement that is in line with your interests. Students have pursued placements in a variety of settings, such as psychiatric hospitals, mental health centers, private practice, neuropsychological assessment, and others.

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Is financial aid available?
Yes, contact the Financial Aid Office at the University of Saint Mary by calling 1-800-752-7043 or visit Financial Aid. Call 913-345-8288 for payment options or visit payment plans.

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"USM provides a study of Cindy O. photo excellence in psychology. The Counseling
track prepares students to be marketable commodities in the
profession."
- Cindy Ormsby

"With the help of the University Lucas R. photo of Saint Mary I am not only furthering my educational goals, but I am setting myself up for a better and brighter future."
- Lucas Rezabek-Laird

"I have been continuously Hollie B. photo impressed by my professors, who have a
wealth of knowledge and experience, and who really care about me. Class sizes are small, so we really are able to actively participate and take full advantage of our educational opportunity here."
- Hollie Becker

University of Saint Mary Overland Park Campus • 11413 Pflumm • Overland Park, KS 66215 • (913) 345-8288