Degree Overview: Master’s Degree Program in Neuropsychology
Majors Overview April 27, 2015Get information about master’s degree programs in neuropsychology and their education requirements, coursework, career choices, and continuing education and licensing choices.
Information on Neuropsychology Program
Schools most commonly offer neuropsychology at the master’s degree level as a concentration in a psychology degree program. Sometimes the field is referred to as biopsychology, a similar area. The structure and function of the brain are explored, and methods of diagnosing brain malfunctions are examined by students enrolled in these programs.
Master’s Programs in Psychology Concentrating on Neuropsychology
Students enrolled in M.A. and M.S. programs in Psychology are typically trained in the design and conduct of clinical research or through the study of counseling and psychotherapy techniques. Students also learn about methods for diagnosing mood, memory or personality disorders, brain anatomy, and brain function via programs offering concentration tracks in either biopsychology or neuropsychology. Completion of extensive practicums may be expected of students enrolled in some of these programs.
Education Requirements
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a bachelor’s degree, in addition to having completed coursework in areas such as experimental psychology, abnormal psychology, introductory psychology, and statistics.
Coursework
Coursework in counseling theory, professional ethics, and quantitative research methods may be in the coursework of graduate psychology programs. Core coursework may include topic areas such as the following areas of study:
•Psychopathology
•Behavioral neuroscience
•Neuroanatomy
•Developmental psychology
•Behavioral therapy
•Psychopharmacology
•Memory assessment
•Biochemistry
Career Choices
Program graduates can seek occupations with private practices, research laboratories, and government agencies. They may choose from popular job titles such as:
•Medical researcher
•Teacher
•Counselor
Continuing Education and Licensing Choices
State licensure is compulsory for graduates of neuropsychology master’s degree programs seeking to work as counselors (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). The passage of a state-approved exam, a master’s degree in an area related to counseling, and two years of post-master’s work experience are necessary for obtaining licensure.
After graduation from a master’s degree program, students may continue their education by enrolling in Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) programs, wherein neuropsychology concentrations may also be available. Licensure in many states is contingent on the completion of one of these degrees (BLS).
