Kansas Master’s in Psychology Programs

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Updated on October 25, 2023
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Masters in Psychology programs in Kansas offer a wide range of degree options for those seeking to further their education. There are 7 esteemed universities located throughout the state offering 17 different Master in Psychology degrees. Each program offers a unique curriculum covering areas such as clinical, experimental, developmental psychology, counseling, and educational psychology. Students can choose from courses such as Clinical Research, Cognitive Science, and Psychopathology, giving them a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Additionally, many universities provide internship and research opportunities and access to faculty and resources, allowing for a more in-depth learning experience. Moreover, Kansas Doctorate and Ph.D. in Psychology Programs provide advanced educational opportunities for individuals seeking to pursue a higher level of expertise in the field. With so many options available, individuals can easily find a Masters in Psychology program that meets their needs.

Master’s in General Psychology

Pittsburg State University Master of Science degree with a major in Psychology

Pittsburg State University’s Master of Science degree with a major in Psychology is a unique and comprehensive program that offers a wide range of concentrations and specializations. Located in Pittsburg, Kansas, this program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. It allows students to explore various topics in psychology, such as developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, research methods, and statistics. In addition, specializations such as counseling psychology, child and adolescent psychology, and social psychology are available for students seeking to further their studies and expertise in the field. With an emphasis on applied research and practice, this program is an excellent opportunity for students to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful professionals in psychology.


Emporia State University MS in Psychology

The Masters in Psychology program offered by Emporia State University is located in Emporia, Kansas, and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. This program provides a comprehensive, research-oriented education focused on the science and practice of psychology. Students benefit from hands-on learning experiences and can choose from a range of concentrations, including Clinical Psychology, Social Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Personality Psychology, Developmental Psychology, and Industrial/Organizational Psychology. The MS in Psychology program at Emporia State University provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge to become successful professionals in the field, equipping them for careers in mental health, research, academia, and more.


Master’s in Clinical Psychology

Fort Hays State University Clinical Psychology MS

Fort Hays State University’s Clinical Psychology MS program is a 60-credit program located in Hays, Kansas. It offers concentrations in Clinical Diagnosis, Clinical Assessment, and Clinical Intervention & Treatment, providing students with the skills and knowledge to become effective clinical psychologists. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is designed to prepare students for successful licensure as a clinical psychologist. The curriculum includes courses such as Psychopathology, Ethical and Legal Issues in Clinical Psychology, and Psychotherapy. In addition, students can take on specialized electives and complete a practicum experience. The Clinical Psychology MS program from Fort Hays State University is an excellent choice for those seeking to gain clinical psychology experience and pursue a career in the field.


Washburn University Master Degree in Clinical Psychology

Washburn University’s Master of Science in Clinical Psychology program is a unique and comprehensive program located in Topeka, Kansas. The Higher Learning Commission accredits the program and offers two concentrations: Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology. The program focuses on developing professional-level skills and knowledge in clinical psychology and is designed to prepare students for doctoral-level research, clinical practice, and teaching. Through a combination of coursework, practicum experiences, and research opportunities, students gain the skills and knowledge to work in clinical settings, conduct psychotherapy, and design and evaluate psychological services. The program also allows students to specialize in areas such as marriage and family therapy, behavioral medicine, health psychology, and clinical neuropsychology.

Click here for Masters in Clinical Psychology programs in the state of Kansas.


Master’s in Counselling Psychology

University of Kansas Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology

The University of Kansas’ Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology is a highly regarded program based in Lawrence, KS. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, this program offers a unique opportunity to gain mental health counseling and psychological assessment knowledge and skills. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of psychological theory and research, as well as specialized knowledge in areas such as multicultural counseling, career counseling, lifespan development, and group dynamics. Concentrations are available in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, and Marriage and Family Counseling, allowing students to specialize in the area of their choice. With this program, students will gain the skills necessary to become ethical and successful counselors, equipping them to make a positive impact in the mental health field.


Master’s in School/Educational Psychology

University of Saint Mary Master of Arts in Psychology

The University of Saint Mary’s Master of Arts in Psychology program is a rigorous and engaging program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful professionals in the field of psychology. Located in Leavenworth, Kansas, this program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and provides concentrations in Applied Behavior Analysis, Business Psychology, Health Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and Trauma Psychology. Each concentration emphasizes the importance of ethical and professional standards and prepares students to work in a variety of clinical, educational, research, and consulting settings. Students can understand psychological theories and principles, develop research skills, and understand the human mind and behavior. In addition, students can gain valuable hands-on experience through internships and other opportunities. With its unique combination of theoretical and practical training, the University of Saint Mary’s Master of Arts in Psychology program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful professionals in the field.


Master’s in Industrial/Organizational Psychology (IO)

Kansas State University Master’s Degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Industrial and Organizational Psychology

The Master’s Degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Industrial and Organizational Psychology program at Kansas State University provides students with a comprehensive and in-depth education in the field of psychology. The Higher Learning Commission accredits this program and enables students to gain a unique perspective on the dynamics of human behavior in the workplace. In addition to a foundational understanding of psychological theories and principles, students are equipped with the skills and knowledge to apply their understanding of research, assessment, and organizational change to a variety of settings, ranging from public and private organizations to healthcare and educational settings. Students are also exposed to hands-on experiences through coursework, research projects, and internships, enabling them to gain the skills necessary to excel in their field.


Other Psychology Programs

Fort Hays State University Masters in Experimental Psychology

Fort Hays State University’s Masters in Experimental Psychology is an innovative program located in the heart of Kansas that provides students with the opportunity to further their studies in the field of psychology. This program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers in experimental psychology. Students can pursue specializations in areas such as cognition, biopsychology, behavioral neuroscience, and social psychology. This program offers a unique blend of theoretical and practical training, providing students with the tools to become leaders in the field of psychology. With an emphasis on research, creativity, and problem-solving, Fort Hays State University’s Masters in Experimental Psychology program is an excellent choice for those looking to pursue their passion in the field of psychology.


Kansas Psychology and Mental Health-Focused Organizations

  • The Kansas Psychological Association (KPA) – A professional organization for psychologists in Kansas that promotes psychology as a science and profession and advocates for the psychological well-being of Kansans.
  • Kansas Mental Health Coalition – an advocacy group that aims to improve the lives of people with mental illness in Kansas by advocating for policies that support mental health services and programs.
  • NAMI Kansas – the state chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), a grassroots organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with mental illness and their families through education, support, and advocacy.
  • The Menninger Clinic – a psychiatric hospital located in Houston, Texas, but with an outpatient clinic in Topeka, Kansas, specializing in treating mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions.
  • Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center – a community mental health center in Lawrence, Kansas, that provides comprehensive mental health services to people of all ages and backgrounds, including therapy, case management, and psychiatric medication management.
  • Family Service and Guidance Center – a nonprofit organization in Topeka, Kansas that provides mental health services to children, adolescents, and their families, including therapy, case management, and psychiatric medication management.
  • Prairie View – a behavioral health organization located in Newton, Hillsboro, McPherson, and Wichita, Kansas, provides a range of mental health services, including inpatient treatment, outpatient therapy, and addiction treatment.
  • DCCCA – a nonprofit organization located throughout Kansas that provides various behavioral health services, including substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and counseling services for families.
  • Cornerstones of Care – a nonprofit organization that provides a range of social services to children and families in Kansas and Missouri, including mental health services, foster care, and adoption services.
  • Johnson County Mental Health Center – a community mental health center in Johnson County, Kansas, that provides mental health services to county residents, including therapy, case management, and psychiatric medication management.

Kansas Data and Mental Health Statistics

  • Prevalence of Mental Illness: According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 19.8% of adults in Kansas experienced a mental illness in the past year, and 5.6% had a serious mental illness.
  • Suicide Rates: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the suicide rate in Kansas was 16.3 per 100,000 individuals in 2019. The rate has been steadily increasing since 2009.
  • Mental Health Workforce: According to Mental Health America, Kansas ranks 39th in the nation for access to mental health care. In 2020, there were 3,620 licensed psychologists in Kansas, which amounts to 12.4 psychologists per 100,000 individuals. There were also 5,882 licensed clinical social workers, or 20.1 per 100,000 individuals.
  • Behavioral Health Disparities: According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, minority groups in Kansas 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, 9.8% of adults in Kansas reported using illicit drugs in the past month, and 26.6% reported binge drinking in the past month. The opioid overdose death rate in Kansas was 10.3 per 100,000 individuals in 2019.
  • Mental Health Funding: According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Kansas ranks 44th in the nation for per capita mental health funding. In 2019, the state spent $60.27 per capita on mental health, compared to the national average of $127.67 per capita.

Psychology Masters Programs in Other States