Program Overview
Introduction to the Master of Science in Psychological Research
The Master of Science in Psychological Research is a research-intensive program designed for current Temple University students completing their undergraduate degree in Psychology. The program provides advanced coursework, professional development, and a master's project, preparing students for doctoral studies and research in academic psychology.
About the Program
The accelerated +1 MS in Psychological Research is a 30-credit program that can be completed in one additional year of graduate coursework. Students work with a faculty sponsor to develop and carry out a master's project, complete graduate-level coursework, and engage in professional development activities.
Time Limit for Degree Completion
The time limit for degree completion is 2 years.
Campus Location
The program is located on the Main campus.
Full-Time/Part-Time Status
Full-time study is required.
Interdisciplinary Study
The program encourages interdisciplinary coursework.
Job Prospects
Graduates of the MS program in Psychological Research gain skills that enhance their applications to doctoral programs in academic psychology. Positions for individuals with an MS in Psychological Research are available in universities, private research and consulting organizations, nonprofits, and marketing.
Non-Matriculated Student Policy
Master's Directed Research courses and 8000-level courses are not open to non-matriculated students. Permission of the instructor is required for non-matriculated students to take certain courses.
Financing Opportunities
Assistantships are not available for the MS program.
Admission Requirements and Deadlines
Application Deadline
The application deadline is March 1. Applications are not evaluated until after the deadline has passed.
Letters of Reference
Three letters of recommendation are required, including one from the applicant's faculty mentor.
Bachelor's Degree in Discipline/Related Discipline
A baccalaureate degree in Psychology is required, with a minimum GPA of 3.5 in both Psychology and overall.
Statement of Goals
A statement of goals (approximately 500-1000 words) is required, outlining reasons for pursuing a master's degree, current research interests, research experience, and future career goals.
Standardized Test Scores
GRE scores are optional. English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE) are required for applicants who earned their baccalaureate degree from an institution where the language of instruction was other than English.
Writing Sample
An academic writing sample is required to assess the applicant's ability to complete graduate-level written work.
Program Requirements
General Program Requirements
The program requires 30 credits beyond the baccalaureate degree.
Required Courses
The required courses include:
- PSY 5791: Master's Directed Research I
- PSY 5003: Advanced Statistics
- PSY 5891: Master's Directed Research II
- PSY 8017: Professional Development and Research Ethics in Psychology and Neuroscience
- PSY 9991: Research
- 8000-level Statistics or Methodology course
- Topical Seminar in Psychology or Neuroscience
- Elective course (graduate course at the 5000-8000 level)
Other Requirement
MS students are exposed to a broad range of current research by attending the department's Colloquium and TILES lecture series.
Culminating Event
A four-course sequence of directed research immerses the student in carefully planned and executed research, culminating in a publishable paper.
Accelerated Programs
Undergraduate students may opt to pursue an accelerated +1 program, enabling them to complete both a bachelor's degree and master's degree in less time than the traditional route.
Graduate Courses Approved to Count for Both Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees
The following graduate courses can be used to substitute for undergraduate courses:
- PSY 5003: Advanced Statistics
- PSY 5791: Master's Directed Research I
- PSY 5891: Master's Directed Research II
Suggested Academic Plan
A suggested academic plan is provided for students in the accelerated program.
Admissions Criteria
Candidates for the +1 program must:
- Be a declared Psychology major
- Be able to complete their baccalaureate degree in a total of four years
- Have two letters of support from full-time faculty
- Provide a personal statement
- Submit a writing sample
- Have successfully completed foundation courses (PSY 1001, PSY 1003, PSY 1004, PSY 3096)