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Master's Degree in Psychology

Master of Science

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Psychology Master’s Degree Program Overview

Are you considering elevating your psychology knowledge and training to the next level? The PNW Psychology MS program may be exactly what you’re looking for.

With clinical and non-clinical tracks available, this program provides the exposure, coursework and training needed for a variety of career paths, including psychometrists, behavioral health technicians, research lab coordinators, nonprofit organization leaders, and advanced/dual-credit high school psychology teachers.

Department of Psychology

  • This unique program includes interdisciplinary training opportunities with PNW’s Counseling, Couple and Family Therapy, and Social Work programs as well as a variety of applied research opportunities and clinical practicum sites throughout Northwest Indiana and the greater Chicago area.
  • PNW’s master’s of psychology degree offers a manageable cost and competitive scholarship options compared to similar programs in the Midwest.

Psychology Master's Degree Program Curriculum

You will benefit from a cutting-edge academic curriculum designed to blend contemporary issues and innovation with foundational knowledge and evidence-based best practices in the field. Full-time and part-time options are available!

The clinical track is designed for individuals interested seeking more applied research and/or clinical training experience in preparation for a doctoral-level programs, as well as individuals interested in advanced direct care positions (e.g., behavioral health technicians, psychometricians, etc.).

Full Course of Study to Be Published Summer 2024

The clinical track consists of 45 to 60 credits of coursework and clinical practicum training with PNW’s expert faculty and mentors.

  • Full-time and part-time options available.

See information below regarding clinical licensure.

The non-clinical track is designed for individuals seeking a deeper foundation and experience in psychology.

Examples include:

  • individuals interested in gaining interdisciplinary or applied research experience to prepare for doctoral-level programs
  • professionals seeking to advance their knowledge and skillsets for nonprofit or human services organization leadership positions
  • high school teachers pursuing dual credit teaching opportunities

The non-clinical track includes 30 to 45 credits of coursework with PNW’s expert faculty instructors and mentors.

  • Full-time and part-time options available.

Full Course of Study to Be Published Summer 2024

Master's in Psychology Highlights

You will study with experienced faculty instructors and mentors with diverse areas of clinical and research expertise, including trauma, forensic psychology, pediatric psychology, addiction, anxiety, and multicultural competence.

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Master's in Psychology Outcomes

You will receive training relevant to a variety of career paths, including psychometrists, behavioral health technicians, research lab coordinators, nonprofit organization leaders, and advanced high school psychology teachers. PNW’s location and strong community partnerships offer access to interdisciplinary research opportunities and clinical practicum sites throughout Northwest Indiana and the greater Chicago area.

Master’s in Psychology Licensure

This program does not prepare students for independent licensure as a master’s-level mental health clinician. For PNW master’s degree programs that prepare students for professional licensure, consider:

Master’s in Psychology Accreditation

There does not yet exist an accreditation process for Master’s Degree programs in Psychology. However, the American Psychological Association (APA) is currently in the process of developing such a process and this program has been designed in accordance with the proposed accreditation guidelines. As soon as the APA accreditation process for master’s degree programs is finalized, we will pursue accreditation.

Meet the Faculty

Amanda Zelechoski is pictured.

Amanda D. Zelechoski, J.D., Ph.D., ABPP

Professor of Psychology | Founding Director of Clinical Training

Zelechoski (zell-uh-husky) is a licensed clinical and forensic psychologist and attorney, specializing in trauma. In addition to serving as Professor of Psychology and Director of Clinical Training at PNW, she also co-founded the digital resource hub and nonprofit organization, Pandemic Parenting.

Gisele Casanova

Gisele Casanova, Ph.D.

Interim Department Chair, Psychology | Associate Professor | Licensed Clinical Psychologist

Gisele Casanova is an associate professor of psychology and the psychology internship coordinator on PNW’s Hammond campus. She instructs undergraduate courses on topics including professional and ethical issues in psychology, child abuse and neglect and psychological disorders. Casanova enjoys guiding students as they develop their critical thinking skills and in understanding how to apply psychological concepts to real life situations.

Alicia January

Alicia M. January, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Psychology

In addition to my role as assistant professor of psychology, I also actively engage in scholarly activities, including conducting research with a focus on assessment and outcomes in pediatric rehab.

Kimberly Brunt

Kimberly L. Brunt, Ph.D., H.S.P.P.

Clinical Associate Professor of Psychology

Dr. Brunt is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychology and Psychology Internship Coordinator in Westville. Dr. Brunt is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who sees patients at AOBHC in Munster, IN

Carly Baetz

Carly L. Baetz, JD, Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Psychology

My current work focuses on treating justice-involved youth with histories of trauma exposure, conducting research on the implementation of trauma-informed practices in the juvenile justice system, and providing trauma-informed training and consultation to juvenile justice professionals.

Abigail Dempsey

Abigail Dempsey, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Psychology

Abigail Dempsey, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist specializing in evidence-based treatment of addictions. Her research focuses on the intersection of technology and behavioral/mental health.

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Earn a Master's in Psychology at PNW

Purdue University Northwest’s Master’s in Psychology program will help you elevate your psychology knowledge and training to the next level.

Our graduate studies staff is ready to help you take the next step! Contact us at (219) 989-2257 or grad@pnw.edu to see how PNW can meet your needs.