The Master of Science (MS) in Psychology degree program offers a wide range of academic and professionally-oriented psychology courses. This degree is best suited to those interested in pursuing a strong theoretical and research foundation in psychology, which can be applied to related fields such as advanced addiction studies, pastoral counseling, sport psychology, and consultation in business and industry.

This program places an emphasis on scientific research and the application of psychology principles to non-clinical settings. The MS in Psychology degree offers an alternative to the Master of Arts (MA) in Psychology degree. The MS in Psychology is designed to be generally applicable to related fields, but does not lead to clinical licensure (for that professional goal, please see the MA in Psychology program). The program also provides a firm foundation in the field of psychology upon which to build doctoral level study at California Southern University.

CalSouthern’s MS in Psychology with a Concentration in Advanced Addiction Studies (AAS) provides 360 hours of SUD specific education, fulfilling the SUD specific educational requirement for the Licensed Advanced Alcohol Drug Counselor (LAADC) as required by the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP). For addiction professionals who are seeking to become nationally certified, this program is also approved by the Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC). More information about Substance Use Disorder (SUD) specific education requirements, certification requirements, and career steps is available at www.ccapp.us and www.naadac.org. A minimum grade of “B” is required in all Advanced Addiction Studies Concentration courses.

 

Given that license eligibility varies by jurisdiction and is subject to change, learners are advised to contact state licensing agencies directly for details regarding all requirements.

Advanced Addiction Studies Concentration Only

CalSouthern has made a determination that this curriculum meets the state educational requirements for licensure or certification in the field of addiction treatment in the following states: AZ, CA, MD, NV, UT. Some states may have additional requirements that are not part of the curriculum, but which can be satisfied at CalSouthern.

CalSouthern has made a determination that this curriculum does not meet the state educational requirements for licensure or certification in the field of addiction treatment in the following state: CO, IN, MA.

CalSouthern has not made a determination that this curriculum meets the State educational requirements for licensure or certification in the field of addiction treatment in the following states: AK, AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, ID, IA, IL, KS, KY, LA, ME, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY.

Last update: 12/7/2023

Substance Abuse Counselor Licensure Contact Information 

Quick Facts:

  • Credits required: 42
  • Cost per credit: $545
  • Program length: 2-3 years (full-time status)
  • Max transfer credits: 6 credits

Time to degree completion can be shortened by accelerating completion of courses and through credits accepted in transfer.

Transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible for transfer. See the University Catalog for transfer credit policies.

What you’ll study

Demonstrate effective written and oral communication skills in research, practice, negotiations and conflict, and academia.

Demonstrate scientific inquiry, analytical and critical thinking skills in research, practice and academia and within diverse formats and contexts.

Demonstrate respect and integration of culture and diversity, in understanding societal inequalities, and its impact on communities, self or others.

Demonstrate scientific inquiry and critical thinking in the evaluation, interpretation and presentation of data, concepts, theories and within research.

Demonstrate the understanding and application of ethical and legal principles as it relates to research, academia and practice.

Demonstrate effective research skills, including the analysis and interpretation of data to draw non-biased conclusions.

Potential career paths may be found in the following industries:

Consultation in Business

Advancement in Careers
such as Conflict Resolution or Healthcare Administration

Addiction Counseling

CalSouthern cannot guarantee employment, salary, or career advancement.

Master of Science in Psychology Degree Requirements

Degree Requirements Credits
Required Core Courses 15
Required Elective Courses 15
Applied Concepts is required for all learners except those who select the Advanced Addiction Studies (AAS) Concentration. For AAS learners,
Supervised Practicum in Advanced Addiction Studies is required, and this course will replace Applied Concepts.
6
Master’s Thesis 6
TOTAL REQUIRED FOR THE MS IN PSYCHOLOGY
42

Courses + Credits

Below you will find the required core courses and elective options within CalSouthern’s Master of Science in Psychology degree program. By completing five specific three-credit psychology elective courses within an identified concentration, you may earn your MS with one of the following concentrations: advanced addiction studies, industrial/organizational psychology, pastoral counseling, or sport psychology; or you may select your courses based upon your areas of interest to develop your own customized areas of study.

Required Core Courses

  • PSY 6502 Counseling Theories and Strategies – 3 credits
  • PSY 6801 Therapeutic Boundaries – 3 credits

or

  • PSY 6309 Advanced Ethical and Professional Issues in Addiction Counseling (for
    those enrolled in the Advanced Addiction Studies Concentration) – 3
    credits
  • PSY 6506 Psychopathology – 3 credits
  • PSY 6512 Group Counseling – 3 credits
  • PSY 6516 Social Psychology – 3 credits

Elective/Concentration Courses

Customized Concentration
Choose any five (5) 3-credit graduate-level psychology elective courses (excludes practicums, internships, and doctoral project courses) — 15 credits

Advanced Addiction Studies Concentration

  • PSY 6511 Substance Use and Related Disorders – 3 credits
  • PSY 7534 Dual Diagnosis – 3 credits
  • PSY 7307 Advanced Physiology and Pharmacology of Addiction – 3 credits
  • PSY 7007 Advanced Case Management: Assessment, Treatment and Planning, Relapse Prevention and Aftercare – 3 credits
  • PSY 7316 Advanced Personal & Professional Wellness for the Substance Abuse Counselor – 3 credits

Industrial/Organizational Psychology Concentration

  • PSY 7521 Industrial/Organizational Psychology – 3 credits
  • PSY 6508 Culture and Diversity in Counseling – 3 credits
  • PSY 7522 Consulting in Business, Education and Mental Health – 3 credits
  • PSY 7529 Myers-Briggs Type Indicator – 3 credits
  • PSY 7761 Interpersonal Conflict in the Workplace – 3 credits

Pastoral Counseling Concentration

  • PSY 7541 Psychology of Religion – 3 credits
  • PSY 6509 Systems of Family Therapy – 3 credits
  • PSY 7507 Advanced Human Sexuality – 3 credits
  • PSY 7517 Psychology of Aging – 3 credits
  • PSY 7533 Psychology of Death and Dying – 3 credits

Sport Psychology Concentration

  • PSY 7100 Applied Sport Psychology I – 3 credits
  • PSY 7101 Applied Sport Psychology II – 3 credits
  • PSY 7711 Current Issues in Sport Psychology– 3 credits
  • PSY 7715 Psychology of Coaching – 3 credits
  • PSY 7720 Enhancing Performance: Preparation/Motivation – 3 credits

Applied Courses

  • PSY 6802 Applied Concepts – 6 credits

or

  • PSY 7508 Supervised Practicum in Advanced Addiction Studies – 6 credits. (This course will replace PSY 6802 for AAS learners)

Master’s Thesis

  • PSY 6899 Master’s Thesis – 6 credits

Download the University Catalog for full course descriptions, prerequisite information, and program details.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Master of Science (MS) in Psychology?

The Master of Science (MS) in Psychology degree program is designed to equip candidates with information, and concepts in psychology applicable to a vast array of fields. Available concentrations include addiction studies, pastoral counseling, sport psychology, and industrial/organizational psychology. Through acquisition of research skills and psychology knowledge base from a non-clinical perspective, this program is designed to be an asset for individuals looking to progress in their chosen profession

What will I study in the Master of Science (MS) in Psychology program?

In the Master of Science (MS) in Psychology, you will work to develop a firm foundation in psychology theories and research, emphasizing effective communication, analytical and critical thinking, and scientific inquiry. You will be introduced to ethical and legal principles in research and academia. You will study with a culturally sensitive perspective and will choose which areas you would like to explore further through your elective and concentration choices.

When can I begin my Master of Science (MS) in Psychology degree?

Classes begin monthly. Connect with a CalSouthern Admissions Advisor by phone (1-800-477-2554, ext. 4246), by email through Admissions@calsouthern.edu, or request information online at How to Apply – California Southern University (calsouthern.edu). Begin your education at CalSouthern today.

How many credits are required to graduate with a Master of Science (MS) in Psychology degree?

The CalSouthern Master of Science (MS) in Psychology program requires a total of 42 semester credit hours. The average time to completion is approximately two-three years for full-time students. Eligible transfer credit can reduce the completion time. CalSouthern will consider up to 6 semester credit hours of qualifying coursework in transfer with official transcripts.**

**Transfer credit is evaluated on an individual basis. Not all credits are eligible to transfer. See the University Catalog for transfer credit policies.

Why should I pursue a Master of Science (MS) in Psychology degree?

The Master of Science (MS) in Psychology degree at CalSouthern may be the program for you if you would like to further your education beyond your bachelor’s degree, if you are interested in applying an understanding of psychology principles to a vast array of other fields, if you want to learn more about advanced addiction studies, pastoral counseling, sport psychology, industrial/organizational psychology, or many other subjects within the field of psychology. Degree candidates can pursue this degree online, allowing the flexibility to study on their own terms and schedules within the course start and end dates. This degree does not lead to licensure, but earning the Master of Science in Psychology can fulfill eligibility for doctoral-level study at CalSouthern if desired. Contact an Admissions Advisor today!

CalSouthern is helping me achieve my professional/career goals while accommodating my work/family commitments. I am very happy with my studies and grateful for this program’s flexibility!

– Michelle G., School of Behavioral Sciences, 2020

Ready to pursue your educational goals? We can help!

Contact us to learn more about our online MS in Psychology degree program.

Call us at: 1.800.477.2254 | Email: admissions@calsouthern.edu

Accreditation & Approvals

NAADAC approved education provider
CCAPP approved education provider

California Southern University is a member of the American InterContinental University System. The System is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

The Master of Science (MS), with Advanced Addiction Studies Concentration provides 360 hours of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) specific education required for the Licensed Advanced Alcohol Drug Counselor (LAADC). This program with AAS concentration is approved by the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP) and the Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC). For more information on how to become California and/or nationally certified/licensed, contact www.ccapp.us and/or www.naadac.org directly. A minimum grade of “B” is required in all courses.

Please visit the Accreditation & Licensure page to learn more.

CalSouthern cannot guarantee employment, salary, or career advancement. Not all programs are available to residents of all states. CalSouthern does not accept applications from residents of Massachusetts, New York, and certain foreign countries.

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