Psychology (M.A.)

For International Students

  • On campus

* Our M.A. in psychology program is suspending admissions for fall 2023 as we go through a program reorganization. Please check back later for information on admissions for fall 2024.

The University of Northern Iowa Department of Psychology offers a master's degree in general psychology designed to provide advanced training in the major applied and basic areas of psychology. The program has a strong empirical orientation, emphasizes competence in research methodology and requires that each graduate student satisfy a thesis requirement. The program reflects the views of department faculty that such an orientation is essential for the education of sophisticated consumers of psychological research at the master's level and for the preparation of students interested in the pursuit of a doctoral degree. This program is designed for students who have completed a bachelor’s degree or significant coursework in psychology.

Areas of Concentration Currently Available:

Clinical Science - Combining empirically supported, scientifically based clinical training with a solid foundation in clinical research methodology, this emphasis prepares students for doctoral programs or for jobs at the Masters level operating under appropriate supervision. Clinical practicum and research opportunities allow students to work with child, adolescent and adult clinical populations in a variety of settings. Clinical faculty members are dedicated to research, and actively involve students in ongoing and new areas of study. Students complete a thesis which they defend at the end of their second year. 

Social Psychology - The Social emphasis is designed for students who are interested in social psychology and would like to complete a master's degree before seeking admission to Ph.D. programs in social psychology or pursuing employment as a research analyst, research associate, or community college teacher. Students in the social emphasis receive a broad education in psychology and especially social psychology. Students complete and present at least two research projects, their first year project and their thesis.

International Admissions

Admission Requirements:

  • International Application for Admission
  • All post-secondary official Transcripts sent directly from your current and/or all prior academic institutions that you have attended to the Office of Admissions at the mailing address listed below.
    • Mailing Address
      • University of Northern Iowa
      • International Graduate Admission
      • 002 Gilchrist Hall
      • Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0018
  • Minimum undergraduate grade point average of a 2.75 on a 4.0 point scale
  • Official TOEFL score of (79), IELTS score of (6.5), or Duolingo score of (105) to be considered for full admission
  • Three letters of recommendation coming from former instructors and those engaged in or familiar with the field of psychology. 
  • Applicant statement addressing the background and preparation for pursuing a graduate degree in psychology, motivations for seeking degree at UNI, research experience and interests and professional goals
  • Resume/CV including educational background, research experience, presentations and/or publications, relevant work experience, relevant extracurricular activities and/or psychology-related public service and awards, distinctions, honors and/or skills

Application Deadlines:

  • Full consideration: February 1st
  • Final Date: April 15 (applications considered if openings remaining)

Program Duration:

  • 2 Years

Graduate Funding Requirements:

Contacts and More Information: