Clinical Psychology

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The MA in Clinical Psychology offers a foundation in the theory, research and practice of clinical psychology. Grounded in the scientist–practitioner model, our STEM designated degree program emphasizes how evidence-based practice and cutting-edge research come together to make a real-world impact on mental health. Students benefit from small cohorts, close mentorship, opportunities to join active research labs, and hands-on training that bridges theory to practice.

Graduates emerge not only with advanced knowledge of clinical psychology but also with practical skills that prepare them to contribute meaningfully in community, clinical and academic settings. While this program does not qualify students for independent licensure, it equips them to thrive in supervised clinical roles and serves as a competitive stepping stone toward doctoral study.

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Child/Adolescent Psychology

The Child/Adolescent Psychology concentration within the MA in Clinical Psychology offers foundational training in clinical psychology with a focus on child and adolescent mental health. Students gain knowledge of developmental considerations in psychopathology, assessment and evidence-based treatment, while also examining the role of families, schools and social contexts. This concentration prepares graduates for supervised, MA-level positions in mental health settings that do not require licensure and serve children and families – such as community agencies or care management organizations. Alumni may pursue roles as clinical research assistants or coordinators, or use this concentration as preparation for doctoral-level training.

See the curriculum.

Forensic Psychology

The Forensic Psychology concentration within the MA in Clinical Psychology prepares students to deliver supervised master’s level clinical services to legal system-involved populations in settings that do not require licensure. These include drug and mental health courts, offender rehabilitation programs, child and family advocacy organizations, and other bona fide public service agencies. In keeping with the program’s overall child/adolescent emphasis, students also gain specialized training in areas such as domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and juvenile offender assessment and rehabilitation.

Students build strong foundations in clinical assessment, psychotherapeutic intervention, developmental psychology and psychopathology, while also developing expertise in the ethical standards of forensic practice. Coursework and applied experiences prepare graduates for MA-level positions in supervised forensic or community settings, as well as for doctoral study. With mentorship from experienced forensic psychologists and legal practitioners, students gain practical skills in assessment, report writing, treatment delivery, and research in forensic contexts.

See the curriculum.



Related Programs

The Department of Psychology offers two doctoral programs, three master’s degree programs with concentration options, one combined bachelor’s/master’s program, and one certification program.


Admission Requirements

  • Equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree.
  • Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in psychology OR a minimum of 12 undergraduate credits in psychology, including a course in statistics and an experimental/research methodology course. Please note: an introductory course in psychology does not count toward the minimum credit requirement, though it might be needed as a pre-requisite to other psychology courses.
  • Applicants with non-U.S. degrees: Please visit the international applicants page to review U.S. degree equivalency information.
  • Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
    • Applicants with a GPA between 2.7 and 3.0 will be considered for admission if other aspects of their application indicate strong potential for success in the program. However, a GPA of 3.0 or above is recommended. Applicants with a GPA below 2.7 will not be considered for admission.

Application Checklist

  • Application Deadline: For Fall semester admission only. Priority deadline: March 15.
    • Applications completed by March 15, including all required supplemental materials, will receive priority review and an admission decision by April 30th.
    • Applications received after March 15th will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the program is full.
  • Online Application: Submit application and $60 non-refundable fee (or waiver if applicable).
  • Transcript: One from each college attended.
  • Essays/Personal Statement: Articulate clearly, concisely, and in specific terms your relevant academic, research, and psychology-related experiences and interests.
    • Please describe the way you foresee the child/adolescent or forensic psychology concentration aiding your future educational and/or career goals.
    • Finally, you may also highlight any additional strengths that will make you an excellent candidate for our program, as well as explain any areas of relative weakness in your application (e.g., if your GPA is below the recommended minimum or your performance in a course was suboptimal).
  • Letters of Recommendation: Two letters, preferably from faculty familiar with your work.
  • Sample of written work related to the field(s) of psychology, particularly in your desired area of concentration. This might be a paper written for a previous course, an original research project summary, or some other original writing that was prepared and completed prior to this application process.
  • Resume/CV: Required
  • Standardized Test Scores: GRE General Test; optional if your overall undergraduate GPA is at least a 3.3 or have completed a master’s level degree
  • Interview: All applicants who are selected to proceed to the next stage of the admissions process following review of their applications, must complete an admissions interview with program faculty.
    • The Psychology Department will hold pre-selected interview days for this program.
    • Interviews are conducted virtually via Zoom with two faculty members and/or the Director of the Clinical MA Program.
    • After selecting an interview date, candidates receive a confirmation email from the Psychology Department (gradclinical@montclair.edu) with additional details and program materials. Interviews allow the admissions committee to learn about each candidate’s background, interests, and goals, and to assess readiness for graduate study, clinical placement, and written communication.

Questions? We’re Here to Help.

Office of Graduate Admissions

Get guidance on every step of the application process, from admission requirements and deadlines to transcripts, test scores and next steps toward enrollment. The Office of Graduate Admissions provides the information and resources needed to put forward a strong application.

Program Coordinator: Jessica Spat-Lemus

Get detailed information about the program itself—from curriculum and faculty expertise to research, internships and career outcomes. The program coordinator can explain how the program connects to your academic and professional goals.

Next Steps

Wherever you learn—on campus or online—Montclair State University offers the programs, community and support to help you reach your goals. Take the next step today.

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