Applied Psychology
Master's
Northeastern's Master of Science in Applied Psychology program offers you advanced coursework in evidence-based psychology principles and methods.
Program overview
Advanced training in psychology
Northeastern’s Master of Science in Applied Psychology program is designed to provide evidence-based knowledge and counseling skills to students who seek entry into doctoral programs in psychology and graduates in human services, psychology, and health sciences who want advanced training in applied psychology—but do not seek to become licensed mental health counselors.
In one year of full-time online study, the program provides a strong foundation in scientific research and clinical/counseling psychology practice while offering the flexibility to pursue coursework in child, adolescent, and family psychology or prevention science.
You’ll gain core competencies and a deep understanding of the development and application of well-tested practices and strategies for promoting mental health and well-being for all individuals, including youth and families.
Northeastern’s Master of Science in Applied Psychology program is designed to provide evidence-based knowledge and counseling skills to students who seek entry into doctoral programs in psychology and graduates in human services, psychology, and health sciences who want advanced training in applied psychology—but do not seek to become licensed mental health counselors.
In one year of full-time online study, the program provides a strong foundation in scientific research and clinical/counseling psychology practice while offering the flexibility to pursue coursework in child, adolescent, and family psychology or prevention science.
You’ll gain core competencies and a deep understanding of the development and application of well-tested practices and strategies for promoting mental health and well-being for all individuals, including youth and families.
This program does not meet licensing regulations for mental health counselors in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and does not replace the existing 60-credit Master of Science in Counseling Psychology (MSCP) required by the Massachusetts Board of Allied Mental Health for counseling licensure. It also does not lead to licensure eligibility as a mental health counselor.
- The program is ideal for students who want a deeper understanding of applied psychology disciplines to clarify their interests in preparation for advanced graduate training or employment.
- The 100% online curriculum provides you with the flexibility to continue working or earn your degree from wherever you are.
- You can also complete the 30-credit program flexibly with a part-time option.
Graduates of the Master of Science in Applied Psychology work in various for-profit and nonprofit organizations focused on community mental health, higher education, research, healthcare, and more. The need for trained professionals is growing as most people with a diagnosable mental health disorder do not receive treatment from individuals with advanced training in applied psychology.
The MSAP program prepares students for careers in a variety of settings, such as:
- Community prevention programs
- Health departments
- Nonprofit human service agencies
- Social advocacy centers
Or, you can choose to continue your graduate education with doctoral training in:
- Psychology (all subdisciplines)
- Prevention science
- School psychology
- Public health
Admissions
Apply to the program
A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.
A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and real-world professional experience in your area of interest. Apply to take your career to the next level.
Fall Term
| Application Deadline | |
| Fall | August 1 |
Spring Term
| Application Deadline | |
| Spring | December 1 |
Application
Application fee
Two letters of recommendation
Transcripts from all institutions attended*
Personal statement
Resumé
TOEFL or IELTS for applicants who do not hold a degree from a U.S. institution and whose native language is not English
*Transcripts from outside of the U.S. will require a course-by-course evaluation from WES or ECE
Program objectives
Prepare for success
Gain a deeper understanding of applied psychology disciplines to clarify your interests in preparation for advanced graduate training or employment.
Build core competencies in areas that follow the behavioral health lifecycle, such as psychopathology, diagnosis, and treatment.
Develop a deep understanding of how family systems, culture, and economic status affect mental health.
Gain the training to research, analyze, and evaluate critical statistics and trends found in behavioral health.
Study issues of individuals, families, and communities burdened with mental health problems associated with loneliness and depression-including domestic violence, gun violence, sexual assault, discrimination, and poverty.
Connect with us
Want more information?
We’re here to answer your questions about this program, the application process, and more. Complete the form below to receive additional program details and speak with a member of our enrollment team.
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Cost of attendance
Tuition and financial aid
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$31,050Tuition in USD
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.
For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.
There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.
Visit tuition & financial aidYour education, your way
Northeastern's online classes give you the same top-tier education you'd get in person, on a schedule that works for your lifestyle and career needs. They offer a range of videos, interactives, breakout sessions, and experience-focused learning opportunities to immerse you in the material and build community. You'll graduate with the same degree as your in-person peers.
#8
Northeastern's national ranking for Most Innovative Schools
(U.S. News & World Report, 2024)
53.5%
Percent of graduate students in the U.S. enrolled in online courses
(NCES, 2022)
97%
Percent of students in the U.S. who recommend online education
(BestColleges, 2024)