Chicago School of Professional Psychology Online Master of Arts in Psychology

Why Chicago School of Professional Psychology?

This online Master of Arts in Psychology offered by this very small private university in Chicago, Illinois is accepting applications. Applicants do not have to take standardized tests to accompany their application materials. Students are not required to have completed any prerequisite coursework in their undergraduate program.

Program Snapshot

University Name	Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Location	Chicago
State	Illinois
Niche.com Grade	none
Name of Degree	Master of Arts in Psychology
School or Department Administering Program	Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Credits	35
Cost per credit	$1,303.00
Tuition for Entire Program	$45,605.00
Test Requirements	none
Minimum GPA	none
Prerequisite Courses and Skills	none
Campus Visit Required?	no
Typical Time to Complete	1-2 years
When Can Students Start the Program?	Fall
Program Concentrations	Child and adolescent psychology Forensic psychology International psychology Organizational leadership Public health
Synchronous classes	both
Required Courses	Professional Ethics in Psychology Diversity and Psychology Psychology of the Life Span Research Methods in Psychology Theories of Personality Applied Research Project I, II, III and IV Courses required for concentration
Does the Program Include a Capstone?	Yes
Does the program include a practicum or internship?	No
Other Features that Make the Program Unique	Some courses offered in Spanish; dedicated graduate university specializing in psychology; ability to earn graduate certificate in online teaching and learning
Program Objectives (quoted directly from the program)	Integrate knowledge of psychological theory, research, and professional literature to choose professional activities that promote optimal health and well-being in individuals, groups, and systems Demonstrate knowledge of psychological theory and assessment techniques to evaluate various dimensions of human experience across a range of contexts Compose grammatically correct papers, reports, and discussion posts of a professional quality, using style and formatting consistent with the most recent APA Style publication manual Respond ethically and effectively to individual and group differences across racial, ethnic, gender, age, social class, disability, sexual orientation, and religious boundaries Demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and practices of ethical decision-making and behavior Demonstrate understanding of research, research methodology, techniques of data collection and analysis, as well as ability to apply scientifically derived knowledge Demonstrate acquired understanding of and respect for scientifically derived knowledge of the psychological bases of behavior and developmental issues across the lifespan
Program Description	The program’s 35 credits can be completed within 1-2 years, and includes required capstone. No internship is required. Students can specialize within one of five concentration areas: Child and adolescent psychology, Forensic psychology, International psychology, Organizational leadership and Public health. The focus of the program is on in-depth learning of conceptual foundations, combined with rigorous critical thinking and professional skills.

What will I Learn?

Graduates of this program will be equipped to pursue professional activities to promote health and well-being in individuals, groups and systems, based on their knowledge of psychological theory, research, and professional literature. They will be able to marshal their knowledge of psychological theories and professional techniques, combined with excellent communication skills to participate in professional activities. They will develop ethical approaches based in a critical understanding of diversity and equity issues. Skilled in quantitative research, they will learn to evaluate and design research studies to solve professional problems.

Introductory courses include Professional Ethics in Psychology, Diversity and Psychology and Psychology of the Life Span. Students gain fundamental skills while taking Research Methods in Psychology, which prepares them for Applied Research Project I, II, III and IV. A course in Theories of Personality helps to deepen comprehension and extend ideas. The student chooses the rest of their required courses in order to fulfill the requirements of their intended concentration.

Students can choose to specialize in one of the following concentrations: Child and adolescent psychology; Forensic psychology; International psychology; Organizational leadership; Public health. Child and adolescent psychology involves the study of human growth and changes in the different phases of life, from infancy to old age. Forensic psychology is the application of psychological approaches and skills to the legal arena, primarily through the psychological assessment of individuals involved with the legal system, such as suspected criminals. International psychology addresses trends and differences in psychological approaches from a global perspective. Organizational leadership investigates the cognitive processes and challenges of leadership within organizations. The public health concentration provides an opportunity to study mental health issues at the population and systemic level.

How much will the program cost?

Students finish their degree within 1-2 years and pay $1,303.00 per credit for a total of 35 credits, or just over $45,500 for the entire degree.

How does the program fit into my life?

Courses may be taught synchronously or asynchronously. In a synchronous course, online classes meet at a set time through videoconferencing software. In an asynchronous course, students complete online activities and watch online videos according to their own schedule. Students get opportunities to practice concepts in online forum discussions, and through online quizzes and exercises. Unless they wish, students do not have to visit campus.

Students complete the program within 1-2 years. Students can start the program in the Fall semester every year. The program’s curriculum is flexible and facilitates work-life balance.

Summary

This graduate-only university specializing entirely in psychology represents a unique opportunity for motivated students. Some courses are offered in Spanish. The concentration areas in international psychology and public health are distinctive, and will attract interested applicants. Higher in cost than many of its peers, the program offers valuable opportunities.