M.A. in Psychological Sciences

The psychological sciences program at James Madison University fosters the development of students interested in improving their research skills and preparing for doctoral education. The primary function of the program is to develop students' knowledge, skills, and abilities in scientific inquiry, methods, and analysis and to equip students to apply their research-based training as researchers, consultants, and/or practitioners.

At the core of the program is coursework in multiple content areas within psychology; coursework in statistics, measurement, and research design; a research apprenticeship; and a thesis. The culture of the program is consistent with that of doctoral programs, including expectations that students will develop a portfolio of scholarly accomplishments (e.g., publications and conference presentations) and participate in various extra-curricular activities related to their discipline. Regular attendance at program-wide roundtable discussions and concentration-specific meetings is expected and required.

Students develop expertise in a specialty area through selected course work and closely mentored experiences with a faculty adviser. Faculty advisers provide regular support and consultation regarding progress in the program and professional development.

Concentrations

Behavior Analysis

The behavior analysis concentration is for students interested in pursuing a doctoral degree in behavior analysis or related disciplines (e.g., behavioral pharmacology, behavioral neuroscience, exceptional education). It is also for students interested in pursuing coursework and experience requirements to qualify for examination to become a master's-level Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA®). Most students choose this latter option and have had great success.

Applied Research

The concentration in applied research is designed for students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in various areas of psychology with an emphasis on applied research, such as sport psychology, police psychology, positive psychology, motivational psychology, multi-cultural psychology, and clinical psychology.

Experimental Psychology

The concentration in experimental psychology is designed for students interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in various areas of research psychology with an emphasis on basic science such as cognitive psychology, sensation and perception, learning theory, and behavioral neuroscience. It also provides a foundation for work in applied settings such as in the federal government.

Quantitative Psychology

The purpose of the quantitative psychology concentration is to train students in quantitative methods (e.g., assessment, measurement, applied statistics, program evaluation). The intent of this training is to prepare students for doctoral study in quantitative methods. Students who choose not to pursue doctoral study may be prepared for some entry-level careers in government agencies, non-profit organizations or educational institutions.

We know that success requires equal parts intellect and action. At JMU, that’s what Being the Change is all about.

When students graduating from James Madison University proudly walk across the stage to receive their diplomas, they’re more than just educated. They’re members of a fellowship of doers. They know how to make things happen. They’ve honed their ability to think critically. They’ve learned the importance of a strong work ethic and they’ve become committed to and skilled at collaborating with others. Diplomas in hand, they leave campus determined to live lives of meaning and pursue careers of purpose.

Only two hours from Washington D.C., JMU is fast becoming one of the nation’s leading lights in higher education. That’s because students enjoy unusually engaged relationships with world-class faculty who are at JMU because they want to pursue knowledge and teach talented students.

JMU students, faculty and alumni are using equal parts intellect and action to succeed in every sort of pursuit: they’re boosting innovation and discovery, leading in business, advancing culture, improving health care, reforming education, renewing civil society, competing in athletics — they’re Being the Change in every imaginable way.