Connecticut is home to 9 different schools offering a total of 24 different Master in Psychology programs. These programs vary in focus and specialization, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals. Some programs focus on clinical psychology, preparing students for careers in counseling or therapy, while others focus on industrial-organizational psychology, preparing students for careers in human resources or consulting. Some programs also offer concentrations in areas such as community psychology, forensic psychology, and applied behavior analysis. Students in these programs will typically take courses in research methods, psychological theories, and specific areas of psychology related to their concentration. Many programs also offer opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships or research projects. Many of these programs additionally provide opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships or research projects. It is important to note that successfully completing these Master’s programs is an essential step toward fulfilling the requirements to become a licensed psychologist in Connecticut.
Connecticut is also home to a variety of distinguished institutions that also offer Doctorate in Psychology programs. These esteemed programs provide advanced education and training for individuals aspiring to pursue a career in psychology at the highest level. With a range of doctoral programs available, students can delve deeper into their chosen field of specialization, whether it be clinical psychology, developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, or other specialized areas.
Master’s in General Psychology
University of Hartford MA in Clinical Psychology
The University of Hartford’s Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology program, located in Connecticut, is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of theories and principles in clinical psychology and train them in various clinical techniques. The program is accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA) and offers two concentrations: Child and Adolescent Psychology and Forensic Psychology. Students have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships and research opportunities. Graduates are prepared for careers in counseling, research, or further education in psychology.
Click here for Masters in Clinical Psychology programs in the state of Connecticut.
Central Connecticut State University MA in Psychology
Central Connecticut State University’s Master of Arts in Psychology program in Connecticut offers two concentrations: Industrial-Organizational Psychology and Community Psychology. The program provides students with a strong foundation in psychological theories and research methods and practical experience through internships and research opportunities. Graduates are prepared for careers in various fields, such as human resources, consulting, or community development. The APA does not currently accredit the program.
Southern Connecticut State University MA in Psychology
Southern Connecticut State University’s Master of Arts in Psychology program in Connecticut provides students with a comprehensive education in psychological theories and research methods. The program offers two concentrations: General Psychology and Industrial-Organizational Psychology. Students have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships and research opportunities. Graduates are prepared for careers in various fields, such as education, counseling, or research. The APA does not currently accredit the program.
Master’s in Behavioral Psychology
Western Connecticut State University Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis
Western Connecticut State University’s Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis program, located in Danbury, Connecticut, is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of applied behavior analysis (ABA) principles and practices and prepare them for a career in the field. The program is accredited by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and offers two concentrations: Autism Intervention and Organizational Behavior Management. Students will learn about behavioral assessment, behavior change procedures, and ethical considerations in the field of ABA. The program requires a practicum experience where students will apply their knowledge in a supervised setting. Graduates will be prepared for careers in various settings, including schools, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. They will be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to help individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, and other behavioral disorders improve their quality of life.
Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology (IO)
University of Hartford MS in Organizational Psychology
The University of Hartford’s Master of Science in Organizational Psychology program, located in Connecticut, is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of organizational psychology. The program is accredited by the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) and offers two concentrations: Industrial-Organizational Psychology and Positive Psychology. Students will learn about leadership, employee motivation, group dynamics, and organizational development. They will also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships and research opportunities. Graduates will be prepared for careers in various fields, such as human resources, consulting, or organizational development.
Sacred Heart University MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Sacred Heart University’s Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology program, located in Connecticut, is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in industrial/organizational psychology principles and practices. The program is accredited by the MPCAC and offers two concentrations: Human Resource Management and Consulting Psychology. Students will learn about employee selection and assessment, training and development, performance management, and leadership. They will also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships and research opportunities. Graduates will be prepared for careers in various fields, such as human resources, consulting, or research.
Fairfield University Arts in Applied Psychology – Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Fairfield University’s Master of Arts in Applied Psychology program with a concentration in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, located in Connecticut, is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in industrial/organizational psychology principles and practices. The program is accredited by the MPCAC and offers an industrial/organizational psychology concentration. Students will learn about employee selection and assessment, training and development, performance management, and leadership. They will also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships and research opportunities. Graduates will be prepared for careers in various fields, such as human resources, consulting, or research.
Other Psychology Programs
University of New Haven Master’s in Community Psychology
The University of New Haven’s Master’s in Community Psychology program, located in Connecticut, is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of community psychology. The program is accredited by the MPCAC and offers two concentrations: Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling and Community Development and Organizing. Students will learn about community-based interventions, program evaluation, and social justice issues. They will also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships and research opportunities. Graduates will be prepared for careers in various fields, such as community mental health, social services, or advocacy.
Fairfield University Arts in Applied Psychology – Industrial/Organizational Psychology
Fairfield University’s Master of Arts in Applied Psychology program with a concentration in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, located in Connecticut, is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in industrial/organizational psychology principles and practices. The program is accredited by the MPCAC and offers an industrial/organizational psychology concentration. Students will learn about employee selection and assessment, training and development, performance management, and leadership. They will also have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships and research opportunities. Graduates will be prepared for careers in various fields, such as human resources, consulting, or research.
Connecticut Psychology and Mental Health-Focused Organizations
- Connecticut Psychological Association (CPA): Professional organization for licensed psychologists in Connecticut, provides resources, education, and advocacy for psychologists and the public.
- Connecticut Mental Health Center (CMHC): Provides a range of mental health services, including outpatient and inpatient care, research, and training programs.
- Mental Health Connecticut: Non-profit organization that provides services and advocacy for individuals with mental health conditions, including housing, support groups, and education.
- Yale-New Haven Psychiatric Hospital: Provides comprehensive psychiatric care, including inpatient and outpatient services, research, and education.
- The Institute of Living: Psychiatric hospital in Hartford that provides inpatient and outpatient care, research, and education.
- Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut: Non-profit organization that provides mental health services to children, adolescents, and families, including therapy, evaluations, and support groups.
- Wheeler Clinic: Non-profit organization that provides various mental health services, including counseling, substance abuse treatment, and care coordination.
- Connecticut Alliance to End Sexual Violence: Non-profit organization that provides education, advocacy, and support to end sexual violence and support survivors.
- The Connection: Non-profit organization that provides behavioral health, addiction, and prevention services to individuals and families throughout Connecticut.
- The Women’s Center of Greater Danbury: Non-profit organization that supports and advocates for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of abuse.
Connecticut Data and Mental Health Statistics
- According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), in 2019, an estimated 229,000 Connecticut residents aged 12 or older (7.1% of the population) had a diagnosable mental illness in the past year.
- The suicide rate in Connecticut was 10.5 deaths per 100,000 residents in 2019, which is lower than the national average of 13.9 deaths per 100,000 residents.
- In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted mental health in Connecticut, with increased demand for mental health services and a rise in anxiety and depression symptoms among residents.
- According to the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), in the fiscal year 2021, there were 69,398 admissions to DMHAS-funded behavioral health services in Connecticut.
- The most common mental health conditions in Connecticut are depression, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders.
- The Connecticut Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) found that in 2020, 19.5% of adults in Connecticut reported poor mental health for at least 14 of the past 30 days, an increase from 13.8% in 2019.
- In 2019, Connecticut spent $891.2 million on mental health services, representing approximately 8% of the state’s total health care expenditures.
- The Connecticut Statewide Suicide Prevention Plan, released in 2021, includes strategies to prevent suicide by addressing risk factors, promoting mental wellness, and improving access to care.
