Master of Arts in Psychology - Psychological and Brain Sciences

The master's (M.A.) degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Psychological and Brain Sciences (PBS) has two tracks: a thesis track and a non-thesis track. Both tracks involve course work on the biological basis of behavior and scientific inquiry. The thesis track has an apprenticeship model in which each student works closely and continuously with a faculty member within the realm of the faculty member's research interests. This work will result in an empirical research thesis. Both M.A. tracks are 30 credit hours. International students who complete this program are eligible for the STEM Optional Practical Training Extension as the Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code is 42.2799 (Research and Experimental Psychology, Other).Learning ObjectivesUpon completion of the degree, graduates of the M.A. in Psychology, Psychological and Brain Sciences program at UM-St. Louis will be able to:Goal 1. Demonstrate an integrative understanding of psychological concepts, theories, research, and historical trends in Psychological and Brain Sciences. (Psychological Science Knowledge Base)Goal 2. Explain and apply (thesis track only) the scientific method to solve problems in Psychological and Brain Sciences and articulate how the solutions rely on scientific reasoning. (Critical Thinking)Goal 3. Evaluate, identify, and apply appropriate research methods in Psychological and Brain Sciences, including research design, data analysis (i.e., selecting, conducting, and interpreting basic statistical tests) and data interpretation. (Scientific Inquiry)

Successful applicants must have completed a baccalaureate degree with a minimum of 15 undergraduate hours in psychology before beginning the master's program.Minimum of 3.0 GPA on 4.0 scale overall and 3.2 in psychology courses.