Iowa is home to four reputable universities that offer Master’s in Psychology programs, granting students a diverse selection of degree options to pursue. These esteemed institutions, namely Iowa State University, the University of Iowa, Grand View University, and Waldorf University, present a wide range of programs with a total of 12 distinct degrees. Students seeking to become licensed psychologists in Iowa can find their ideal program within these universities. Whether one’s interests lie in Applied Psychology or Clinical Mental Health Counseling, each institution offers a comprehensive curriculum tailored to meet individual aspirations. Furthermore, specialization avenues such as Play Therapy and Child and Adolescent Psychology afford students the opportunity to personalize their degrees in accordance with their specific interests.
In addition to its diverse selection of Master’s in Psychology programs, Iowa also provides a variety of Doctoral Psychology programs for students seeking advanced education in the field. Iowa State University, the University of Iowa, Grand View University, and Waldorf University each offer a range of doctoral programs that cater to different areas of specialization. These esteemed institutions provide aspiring psychologists with ample opportunities to pursue their doctoral studies and acquire the necessary expertise to become licensed psychologists in Iowa.
Master’s in General Psychology
University of Northern Iowa, Master of Arts degree in Psychology
The University of Northern Iowa’s Master of Arts in Psychology is an enriching and stimulating program located in Cedar Falls, Iowa. The Higher Learning Commission accredits this program and offers concentrations in Applied Developmental Psychology, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and Industrial/Organizational Psychology. Students can gain a comprehensive understanding of psychological theories and research methods and gain practical experience through internships. Whether you are looking to pursue a career in psychology, social work, or counseling, the UNI Master of Arts in Psychology program will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful.
Master’s in Clinical Psychology
Loras College Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology
Loras College’s Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology is an esteemed program located in Dubuque, Iowa. The Higher Learning Commission accredits the program and offers a unique education in clinical psychology. Students can specialize their studies in areas such as counseling psychology, clinical assessment, mental health counseling, and child and adolescent psychology. The program prepares students for professional practice in clinical psychology, with a special emphasis on psychological assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. This program offers students the opportunity to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to become highly-qualified mental health professionals in the field.
Click here for Masters in Clinical Psychology programs in the state of Iowa.
Master’s in School/Educational Psychology
University of Iowa Master of Arts in Educational Psychology and Learning Sciences
The University of Iowa’s Master of Arts in Educational Psychology and Learning Sciences offers unique and modern pathways to explore the ways that people learn in educational settings. Located in Iowa City, this program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It allows students to specialize in areas like Educational Psychology, Cognitive and Developmental Sciences, Educational Measurement and Research, and Human Development and Family Studies. With an emphasis on research-backed methods and innovation, the program provides students with a comprehensive background in the field of Educational Psychology and Learning Sciences. Through coursework, applied research, and field experiences, students gain the skills to become effective practitioners and researchers in the field. With the expertise and knowledge gained through the program, graduates are well-equipped to impact their communities positively and beyond.
Iowa Psychology and Mental Health-Focused Organizations
- Iowa Psychological Association (IPA) – a professional organization for psychologists in Iowa that promotes psychology as a science and profession, and advocates for the psychological well-being of Iowans.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Iowa – a grassroots organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with mental illness and their families through education, support, and advocacy.
- Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association (IMHCA) – a professional organization for licensed mental health counselors in Iowa that advocates for the mental health needs of Iowans and promotes professional development for counselors.
- Foundation 2 – a crisis center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa that provides 24/7 support and counseling to individuals experiencing mental health crises or thoughts of suicide.
- Iowa City Community School District – the school district in Iowa City, Iowa that has implemented comprehensive mental health services for students, including access to licensed therapists and a mental health clinic within the schools.
- Abbe Center for Community Mental Health – a community mental health center with locations throughout Eastern Iowa that provides mental health services to people of all ages, including therapy, case management, and psychiatric medication management.
- UnityPoint Health – a healthcare system with locations throughout Iowa that offers a range of behavioral health services, including inpatient and outpatient treatment for mental illness and addiction.
- Children’s Mental Health and Well-Being Collaborative – a statewide collaborative of organizations and individuals focused on improving mental health outcomes for children in Iowa through education, prevention, and advocacy.
- Mental Health America of Iowa – A nonprofit organization that promotes mental health and prevents mental illness through education, advocacy, and support services.
- Department of Psychiatry at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics – a department within the University of Iowa that offers a range of mental health services, including inpatient and outpatient treatment, research, and training for mental health professionals.
Iowa Data and Mental Health Statistics
- Prevalence of Mental Illness: According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 18.3% of adults in Iowa experienced a mental illness in the past year, and 4.5% had a serious mental illness.
- Suicide Rates: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the suicide rate in Iowa was 14.5 per 100,000 individuals in 2019, which is slightly below the national average. The suicide rate has been increasing in recent years.
- Mental Health Workforce: According to Mental Health America, Iowa ranks 20th in the nation for access to mental health care. In 2020, there were 1,705 licensed psychologists in Iowa, which amounts to 11.0 psychologists per 100,000 individuals. There were also 3,736 licensed clinical social workers, or 24.1 per 100,000 individuals.
- Behavioral Health Disparities: According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, minority groups in Iowa face disparities in access to and quality of behavioral health care. For example, African Americans and Hispanics/Latinos are more likely to have a mental illness, but less likely to receive treatment than their White counterparts.
- Substance Use: According to SAMHSA, 8.6% of adults in Iowa reported using illicit drugs in the past month, and 21.5% reported binge drinking in the past month. The opioid overdose death rate in Iowa was 9.3 per 100,000 individuals in 2019.
- Mental Health Funding: According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Iowa ranks 27th in the nation for per capita mental health funding. In 2019, the state spent $103.21 per capita on mental health, compared to the national average of $127.67 per capita.
