Why Mercy College?
This online Master of Science in Psychology is offered by a small private Catholic university in Dobbs Ferry, New York. There are no requirements for students to have completed specific courses in prior study. Applicants need not submit test scores, and no specific Grade Point Average is required, making this an accessible program for students with nontraditional educational pathways.
Program Snapshot
| University Name | Mercy College |
| Location | Dobbs Ferry |
| State | New York |
| Niche.com Grade | Master of Science in Psychology |
| Name of Degree | C |
| School or Department Administering Program | School of Social and Behavioral Sciences |
| Credits | 36 |
| Cost per credit | $971.00 |
| Tuition for Entire Program | $34,956.00 |
| Test Requirements | none |
| Minimum GPA | none |
| Prerequisite Courses and Skills | none |
| Campus Visit Required? | no |
| Typical Time to Complete | 5 semesters |
| When Can Students Start the Program? | Fall |
| Program Concentrations | none |
| Synchronous classes | mostly not |
| Required Courses |
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| Does the Program Include a Capstone? | Y |
| Does the program include a practicum or internship? | Y |
| Other Features that Make the Program Unique | capstone is comprehensive exam or thesis; less flexibility but small cohort structure; fast time to degree; Christian perspective |
| Program Objectives (quoted directly from the program) |
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| Program Description | The program’s 36 credits can be completed within 5 semesters. Students must complete both an internship and capstone project. Students learn to conduct research in psychology and behave ethically as they gain understanding of fundamental concepts in psychology. |
What will I Learn?
The program aims to provide a breadth and depth of curriculum addressing research in psychology, knowledge of psychopathology, ethical foundations, and knowledge of psychological science. Graduates will learn fundamental concepts including human development, psychological history and systems, affective and biological bases of behavior, social psychology, theories of personality, and psychopharmacology.
Students begin their journey by studying Contemporary Theories in Psychology, Physiological Psychology and Psychopathology. They learn to be critical and creative researchers via courses in Statistics and Research Methodology I and II. They apply concepts and practice ethical behavior during Practicum in Psychology I and II. Group Experience and in Professional Issues and Ethics allow for deeper conversation and exploration. Students are required to take a Comprehensive Exam or complete a Thesis.
How much will the program cost?
Students finish their degree within 5 semesters and pay $971.00 per credit for a total of 36 credits, or just under $34,956.00 for the entire degree.
How does the program fit into my life?
This program offers a balance of scheduled, or synchronous classes, and self-paced, or asynchronous, online coursework. During synchronous classes, students attend traditional classes via video technology, while asynchronous courses may include prerecorded video content, online activities, forum discussions and debate, and other enriching materials.
Students complete the program within 5 semesters. Students can start the program every Fall, and follow the same course pathway as all other students as they proceed through a lockstep curriculum.
Summary
A thesis option is offered for students who are intimidated by the comprehensive exam option. Applicants should investigate the impact of the program’s Christian worldview and consider how it fits in with their preferences. They should also be aware that this program is quite structured, cutting down on administrative headaches and building connections with classmates. For students who wish to explore specialized topics in depth, and who want the research infrastructure of a large college, this option may not be the best fit.
