The M.S. in Psychology is designed for students whose primary interest is in working or studying in areas of psychology that intersect with the criminal justice system. A key feature of the program is a close mentoring relationship with a faculty member with expertise in Forensic Psychology who oversees the student’s progress toward their individual research goals related to issues in the legal and criminal justice systems. In the second year of the program students will also take part in a 9-month practicum (PSY 5950) where they will receive hands-on training and on-site supervision working on issues related to the legal and criminal justice system (e.g., jury consulting firms, working with lawyers and investigators in the dependency court, working in a forensic mental health setting in the community).  

General Admission Requirements

Admission to the MS program in Psychology requires a complete application submitted through the Cal State Apply online system. The online application includes the department’s supplemental application materials (i.e., statement of purpose and three letters of recommendation). The department only admits students once a year for matriculation in the fall semester.

The minimum requirements for admission to the MS graduate program in psychology are:

• Students with an undergraduate major in psychology with a grade point average of 3.0; OR students whose bachelor’s degree is not in psychology, completion of the non-major conditional program of 23 units (described below) with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. 
• 3 Letters of Recommendation from those who are familiar with your academic capabilities, at least 2 of which must be from academic sources.
• A Statement of Purpose of 400 to 500 words indicating your reasons for wishing to pursue a research degree, your particular areas of interest, and any experience relevant to your goals and interests. If you have identified a particular faculty member as a possible mentor, indicate this in your letter. (Note that this does not guarantee working with this faculty member.)
• Applicant interview and applicant interview writing sample may be requested.

Students are cautioned that no credit toward a graduate degree can be earned before completion of the conditional program.

 Non-major conditional program for students whose baccalaureate is not in Psychology:

The following 23 units of prerequisites (or their equivalents) must be completed before beginning the Master’s program.

• Group A (11 units): PSY 3020 , PSY 3040 , PSY 3080  
• Group B (any 2 courses, 6 units): PSY 3100 , PSY 4100 , PSY 4120  
• Group C (any 2 courses, 6 units): PSY 3220 , PSY 4010 , PSY 4210 , PSY 4240 , PSY 4250 , PSY 4330  

  ---

   

Learning Outcomes Roadmap