Master in Clinical Psychology
What is clinical psychology?
The field of psychology focuses on the study of the various mental processes that define our thoughts, actions, feelings and behaviors. Psychology is a holistic field of study that examines a person’s lifestyle and environment in addition to their thoughts and feelings in order to better understand how the human mind works, to define and diagnose mental disorders and to treat those disorders effectively. Clinical psychology is the branch of psychology that focuses on using various techniques to relieve the symptoms of psychological disorders, in addition to studying better ways of diagnosing and treating such disorders.
Master in Clinical Psychology Programs
What is the Master of Clinical Psychology?
The Master of Clinical Psychology or M.A. in clinical psychology is an advanced two-year long graduate level degree. In order to enroll in this degree, a bachelor’s level education in addition to some relevant work experience is required. The academic coursework includes the study of various behavioral and mental processes, behavioral control, counseling, and diagnosis of disorders, psychotherapy and other therapeutic techniques. Students also learn how to employ research methods and qualitative analysis techniques in real world situations to better understand the underlying causes of psychological problems and to devise methods for their treatment and prevention
What are the future prospects?
The massive increase in the elderly population of the country combined with increasing awareness about psychological disorders and their treatments is expected to greatly boost the demand for clinical psychologists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in this field will increase by 14% through 2018, and the field psychology will become the largest employer within the healthcare industry. Average wages for master of clinical psychology degree holders currently stand at $115,000 per year and there are numerous opportunities for further advancement.