Program Overview

Program Coordinator Elizabeth Hirshorn, (845) 257-2372, hirshore@newpaltz.edu
Program ID 210
Credits 39
Program Length MS can be completed in 4 semesters if enrolled full-time, but students must complete degree within 5 years
Modality In-person
Full-time/Part-time Full-time
Transfer Credits 6
Capstone Thesis

Program Description

The Psychology Graduate Program offers a 39-credit Master of Science degree in Psychological Science. This research-based program exposes students to research in a variety of fields including social, cognitive, developmental and applied psychology. In addition, students learn advanced statistical and experimental and non-experimental methodological skills. The degree may serve as preparation for entry into a doctoral program or as additional training for those who plan to enter or continue work in applied areas of psychology with an emphasis on research.

Apply to a SUNY New Paltz graduate programAdmission Requirements

The Psychology Graduate Programs’ Admissions Committee reviews applications. Please prepare the following items for inclusion in the online application process:

  • Baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 for all undergraduate work or strong evidence of recent academic achievement.
  • Successful completion of undergraduate General Psychology, Statistics, and Research Methods in Psychology, with preference given to students with a B or higher for both Statistics and Research Methods courses.
  • One official copy of transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work.
  • Contact information for three individuals who have agreed to provide letters of recommendation.
  • Statement of professional goals.
  • International students must meet these additional requirements for admission: International Graduate Admissions | SUNY New Paltz

  • Please send OFFICIAL transcripts to:
    Office of Graduate Admission
    100 Hawk Drive
    New Paltz, NY 12561


     

Application Deadline

March 15 Fall Admission

Accepting on a rolling basis; applications will be reviewed until the program is full. However, for full consideration applications must he submitted by March 15th.

Applications are accepted for Fall admission only. No Spring admissions.

Curriculum Requirements

Master’s degree candidates for the MS in Psychological Science must complete a minimum of 39 credits.  Students must maintain an average grade of B in graduate-level courses. The department may accept up to nine credits of graduate work taken elsewhere in which a grade of B or better was obtained.  

Statistical and Methodology Courses (12 Credits)
PSY501Analysis of Variance3
PSY503Correlation & Multiple Regress3
PSY511Research Methods I3
PSY513Research Methods II3
Content Core Courses (12 Credits)
PSY530Developmental Psychology3
PSY540Applied Psychology3
PSY550Social/Personality Psychology3
PSY560Cognitive Processes 3
Research Specialization Courses (15 Credits)
Seminar is a 3-credit course, taken twice:6
PSY558
Seminar in Contemporary Research
Practicum is a 1-credit class, taken three times:3
PSY500
Research Practicum
PSY590Thesis in Psychology (3-6)6
Total Credits39

All degree requirements must be completed within five years after admission.  Candidates must receive the recommendation for the degree from the Director of the Psychology Graduate Program, Department Chair, and Thesis Committee.

Graduate Checklist

  • Apply for graduation via my.newpaltz.edu under “Graduation” tab according to the schedule in the academic calendar.   

  • Resolve any pending admission conditions (outlined in your acceptance letter) and/or missing documents if applicable. 

  • Review your progress report via my.newpaltz.edu to ensure that you have completed all program requirements.  

  • Remember that only two grades below a B- may be applied to your plan of study 

  • Contact your advisor if you need to amend your plan or process transfer credit. 

  • Ensure that you are in good academic standing with a GPA (Grade Point Average) of 3.0 or higher. 

  • Pass your capstone or culminating assessment. 

  • Complete your degree within the specified time limit outlined in the Program Overview. 

Program Learning Outcomes

  • Students will demonstrate advanced knowledge of major theoretical perspectives across areas of psychology (developmental, social, cognitive, and applied, etc.). 

  • Students will demonstrate advanced knowledge of statistical and research methods used in psychology research. 

  • Graduates will demonstrate in-depth knowledge and competence in conducting research. 
  • Students completing the MS in Psychological Science Program will achieve career enhancement through meaningful use of skills developed from our program leading to a post-graduation placement (e.g., doctoral program and/or training, or acceptance of a position requiring relevant experience in the public or private sector).