University of Central Oklahoma

What you'll study

The programme combines core graduate-level topics in psychological theory and methods with applied and research-focused options. Typical areas of study include advanced research methods and statistics, psychometrics and assessment, lifespan developmental psychology, psychopathology, counselling and intervention techniques, and ethics and professional issues.

Students commonly choose between thesis and non-thesis routes: the thesis route emphasises empirical research and culminates in an original research project, while the non-thesis route places greater emphasis on coursework and a practicum or internship. Practical training is an integral component — supervised practicum placements or internships provide direct client contact and experience in community mental health settings, schools, medical settings or organisational environments. Assessment methods include examinations, research papers, practicum evaluations, and a capstone project, thesis or comprehensive examination depending on the chosen pathway.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor's degree in psychology or a closely related discipline. Applicants with degrees in other fields may be considered if they have completed prerequisite coursework in psychology, research methods and statistics.
• A satisfactory undergraduate academic record as judged by the department (applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic preparation for graduate-level work).
• Supporting materials such as a personal statement describing academic and professional goals, two or more academic or professional letters of recommendation, and a current CV/resume.
• Some applicants may be required to attend an interview with programme faculty. Standardised tests (e.g. the GRE) are considered on a case-by-case basis according to department policy; consult the department for current guidance.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency in line with university requirements and provide degree documentation translated into English where necessary.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a range of careers in public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical roles include positions as research assistants, behavioural health technicians, mental health clinicians (with appropriate licensure and additional supervised hours), school support personnel, rehabilitation and community services staff, and human resources or organisational development practitioners. Many students also progress to doctoral programmes (PhD or PsyD) in clinical, counselling, school or research psychology when they seek licensure or academic careers.

The programme’s practicum and internship components help build the applied skills employers value, while the research option prepares graduates for research and evaluation roles in universities, healthcare settings and government agencies.

Why study at University of Central Oklahoma

• UCO offers a supportive, student-centred environment with relatively small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which benefits students completing practicum placements and faculty-supervised research projects.
• The university’s location near the Oklahoma City metropolitan area provides access to a wide range of practicum and internship partners across mental health agencies, schools, hospitals and organisational settings.
• Students can work with active faculty researchers across areas such as assessment, developmental psychology, clinical and counselling topics, and applied behavioural research, gaining hands-on research experience and opportunities to present and publish.
• The programme prepares students for a variety of professional pathways and supports those aiming for licensure or further graduate study through curriculum choices, supervised practicum and guidance on post‑graduate requirements.