Psychology is a quickly-growing career field, with opportunities for professionals in a wide range of clinical settings. Those who wish to practice as a child psychologist will have many opportunities to do so upon the completion of a graduate degree. Here, you can learn more about the types of graduate degrees that you might seek within the field of psychology, as well as programs available within the state of California.
Options for Graduate Study in Psychology
Those who wish to become child psychologists have several options in terms of what degree to earn. Consideration should be given to the setting in which the student wishes to work and the ability to become licensed. Those who wish to focus in child psychology should choose electives and clinical practicums within any degree program that focuses on this population group.
Doctor of Psychology
The Doctor of Psychology, or Psy.D., is a practice-centered doctoral degree focused on training clinical psychologists. The degree can typically be completed in five years of full-time study, with the last year as a focused internship. Courses may include clinical interventions with adolescents, human development, and relationships in families. Application requirements vary by program, but may include a resume, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Some programs will admit those who hold a bachelor's degree, and undergraduate coursework in human development and abnormal psychology may be a prerequisite to begin graduate work. Other programs may require a master's degree in a mental health discipline. Results of the GRE or subject tests in psychology may be required.
Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology
Those who wish to work in clinical settings with children may consider the Master of Arts (M.A.) in counseling psychology. The M.A. can typically be completed in three years of full-time study. Courses may include human development, counseling for grief or trauma, and therapeutic interventions with children. Upon the completion of this program, students may be qualified as a licensed professional clinical counselor or marriage and family therapist. To be accepted, students should submit a statement of purpose, resume, and letters of recommendation. An undergraduate GPA of 3.0 may be a minimum requirement.
Master of Arts in School Psychology
For students who wish to work with children in the school setting, one degree option is the Master of Arts (M.A.) in Educational Psychology and an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) certification. This program typically takes three years to complete, with a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Educational Psychology awarded after two years, and the Ed.S. awarded after the third year. Courses may include behavioral assessment, early intervention, and family/school collaboration; and internship requirements will give students hands-on experience. Admission requirements typically include holding a bachelor's degree and submitting of a statement of intent, resume, GRE scores, and letters of recommendation. An interview may be required.
Graduate Psychology Programs in California
Santa Clara University
Students who attend Santa Clara University can work towards the M.A. in counseling psychology. Graduates at this Roman Catholic institution can choose a program leading to certification as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), licensure as a marriage and family therapist (MFT), or a dual degree program. Students may choose an emphases in LGBTQ counseling or correctional counseling; or may select their own electives. A final comprehensive paper requires students to describe their major theoretical influences and develop a case conceptualization reflecting those beliefs.
The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
With several campuses in California, including Los Angeles, Anaheim, and San Diego, students can elect to pursue their graduate psychology education at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Students can pursue the Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology or Applied Clinical Psychology. Students are required to pursue extensive practicum opportunities in order to gain hands-on experience in the field. Some students elect to complete these hours at a university-run community counseling center. Students can also elect the M.A. in Clinical Psychology with a focus on marriage and family therapy. In addition to coursework, students will complete a 250 hour supervised clinical internship, as well as complete a clinical competency examination.
University of San Francisco
At the University of San Francisco, students can pursue the Psy.D. degree. As a Jesuit Roman Catholic university, there is a focus on working with underserved populations. Students in the program complete extensive coursework and clinical training. They also are expected to complete a dissertation, and present a written document and orally defend their research. The Diversity Scholars program allows applicants the opportunity to interview and meet with key student support personnel during a paid 2-day visit.
Chapman University
At Chapman University, those who are interested in working with children in the school or educational setting can work to attain the Master of Arts in School Psychology in addition to an Educational Specialist endorsement, leading to the ability to earn the nationally certified school psychologist credential in addition to California certification. Chapman, which is affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), offers extensive fieldwork opportunities, requiring 600 hours of practicum and 1200 hours of internship. Study abroad programs are available in Cambodia, Guatemala, and Vietnam. The Chapman University Association of School Psychologists provides opportunities for networking and mentoring.
Fresno Pacific University
At Fresno Pacific University, students can work towards the M.A. in school psychology. Fresno Pacific offers a blended course schedule, with both online and on-campus options for some courses. Required classes include board certified behavior analyst course requirements. Course offerings also incorporate the Christian mission of the university related to an affiliation with the Mennonite Brethren Church.
Graduate programs in psychology should offer students relevant coursework as well as hands-on practice opportunities in order to have a solid basis in the field. To become a child psychologist, you may look to earn master's or doctoral degrees in related areas.
