Why Fort Hays State University?
Designed primarily to meet licensure needs of students who will work in Kansas, this Master of Science in Clinical Psychology is offered by the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences at this medium-sized public university located in Hays, Kansas. Applicants are expected to hold a Bachelor’s degree in psychology; applicants with a degree from a related field should have completed at least twelve credit hours of coursework in psychology.
The ability to demonstrate that you have taken at least one undergraduate course in statistics or research methodologies is required of applicants. Results from standardized tests are not necessary for your application. Students must have completed their undergraduate studies with a minimum 3.0 GPA to be considered.
Program Snapshot
| University Name | Fort Hays State University |
| Location | Hays |
| State | Kansas |
| Niche.com Grade | B |
| Name of Degree | Master of Science in Clinical Psychology |
| School or Department Administering Program | College of Health and Behavioral Scientists |
| Credits | 62 |
| Cost per credit | $298.55 |
| Tuition for Entire Program | $18,510 |
| Test Requirements | none |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 |
| Prerequisite Courses and Skills | Bachelor’s degree in psychology or related field with 12 credit hours of coursework from a psychology department; One undergraduate course in statistics or research methods; can be from any department |
| Campus Visit Required? | required to come to the FHSU campus for five-day workshops over two summer semesters. |
| Typical Time to Complete | 3 years |
| When Can Students Start the Program? | Fall |
| Program Concentrations | none |
| Synchronous classes | both |
| Required Courses |
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| Does the Program Include a Capstone? | Yes |
| Does the program include a practicum or internship? | Yes |
| Other Features that Make the Program Unique | Designed primarily to meet licensure needs of students who will work in Kansas; high number of required credits but low cost per credit so good value; required residency experience; required practicum; small program with cohort approach |
| Program Objectives (quoted directly from the program) |
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| Program Description | This 62-credit program offers a comprehensive training in clinical psychology requiring 3 years of intensive study, a required practicum, a required comprehensive exam, and two required visit to the FHSU campus during summer semesters. Students learn foundational skills in psychology theory and clinical practice, and gain the tools necessary to conduct research as ethical professionals. |
What will I Learn?
Clinical psychology is the branch of psychology that consists of assessing and treating mental health problems through ongoing clinical care. It can include providing care for individuals, couples, and groups, as well as consulting, training, supervision and research on clinical topics.
The program aims to provide a breadth and depth of curriculum covering knowledge of human development and psychology across the lifespan, and knowledge of the theory and application of psychology systems and approaches. Students learn to appraise psychological issues in adults and children, and to apply appropriate interventions in an ethical manner, including psychotherapy and community mental health approaches. Students also learn to design and conduct research projects on topics related to clinical psychology.
Students are required to complete both a clinical practicum and a capstone comprehensive exam.
The introductory curriculum includes courses in Cultural Diversity in Psychology, Developmental Psychology I, and Professional Ethics in Psychology. They develop clinical skills in Appraisal of Children, Appraisal of Adults, Approaches to Psychotherapy, and Foundations of Professional Practice. Students gain fundamental research aptitude while taking Experimental Methods and Inferential Statistics. A Practicum in Applied Psychology I and II allows students to apply concepts to professional practice. Students can pursue individual interests in elective courses.
How much will the program cost?
Students complete their degree in three years for a cost of $298.55 each credit, or little over $18,500 for the whole degree, which consists of 62 credits.
How does the program fit into my life?
Online activities in this program are offered asynchronously, meaning that students complete them at their own pace. Some courses require attendance at synchronous online classes offered at set times every week.
Most students complete the program within 3 years. Students are required to visit the FHSU campus for a five day workshop twice during the program, during each of two summer semesters. This program offers less flexibility and more hands-on work experience than many competitors.
Summary
While this program is aimed primarily at students living in Kansas, it is well worth a second look for any applicant looking for excellent value in a rigorous clinical program with exceptional opportunities for in-person learning through summer campus intensives and a required practicum. The cost per credit is low, while the required number of credits is on the high end, meaning that the program is excellent value for money and should expand career options once completed.
While some applicants may enjoy the opportunity to assess their knowledge through a comprehensive exam, this option may not be appropriate for everyone. Applicants should be aware that this program is highly structured according to a lockstep cohort curriculum model. The structured curriculum allows students to build relationships, but may present barriers to exploration.
