Master of Science in Experimental Psychology

“The psychology professors at the University of West Alabama are incredibly knowledgeable in the field of psychology. Completing my honors thesis under Dr. Mark Davis prepared me for both the academic demands and thesis process that I would complete as I pursued my Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis at the University of South Florida. I strongly recommend the psychology program at the University of West Alabama.” -Carolyn Mancuso, M.A., BCBA

The MS in Experimental Psychology from the University of West Alabama provides training in psychology-based statistics and research methodology. These are necessary skills for doctoral programs and are in demand by potential employers.

Study in Experimental Psychology also requires a core set of classes, as well as electives from which the student can pursue his/her own interests.

All students receive one-on-one mentoring from a faculty member in Psychology, including

Dr. Mark Davis, Social Psychology
Dr. Joy Cauthron, Cognitive Psychology
Dr. Kelly Pivik, Social Psychology
Dr. Ed Snodgrass, Health Psychology
Dr. James Gilbert, Health and Counseling Psychology
Dr. Marti Waters, Developmental Psychology

Admission Requirements

The application deadline for Fall semester is March 15, and Spring semester is August 15. For a full list of admission requirements, please visit the UWA Graduate Catalog.

This program is offered both on-campus and online. For more information about the online program, click here. 

Three Tracks

Traditional Option

This track is useful in preparation for a doctoral program in psychology. Students are required to complete a thesis, which is an original research project developed and completed by the student. Students will take general coursework and will choose electives based on interest.

Curriculum (36 hours):

• Statistics & Research Methods
• Social Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Cognitive Psychology
• Theories of Personality

For a full list of courses and possible electives in the Traditional Option, see the graduate catalog.

Clinical Psychology Option

This track can be used as a step toward obtaining an LPC or other counseling credentials, or as preparation for a doctoral program. This degree alone does not fulfill the requirements for an LPC or other counseling licensing credentials. This is not a CACREP Accredited program. Please see the requirements in your state/area for full requirements. Students will take core research methods coursework, as well as other coursework designed for obtaining a clinical perspective. Students have the option of completing a Thesis (recommended for those planning on pursuing a doctoral program) or completing the Comprehensive Exam.

Curriculum (39-57 hours):

• Statistics & Research Methods
• Abnormal Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Theories of Personality

For a full list of courses and possible electives in the Clinical Psychology Option, see the graduate catalog. 

Health and Sports Psychology Option

This program is designed to prepare the student for clinical applications in health and sports psychology. The program focuses on the skills needed for careers in these fields. Graduates have the preparation for a doctoral program or other career options. Students have the option of completing a Thesis (recommended for those planning on pursuing a doctoral program) or the Comprehensive Exam.

Curriculum (39-54 hours):

• Statistics & Research Methods
• Abnormal Psychology
• Sports Psychology
• Theories of Personality

For a full list of courses and possible electives in the Health and Sports Psychology Option, see the graduate catalog. 

Other Opportunities

• Research Opportunities – Work with faculty members to create your own research projects
• Practicum and Internship Opportunities
• Conference Presentation/Attendance
• Publication
• Graduate Assistantship
• Travel Abroad
• Emotion Training

Contact: Director of Graduate Studies, Dr. Kelly Pivik, kpivik@uwa.edu, 205.652.3822