Master of Science in Clinical Psychology

For those called to explore the science of behavior and support individuals through life’s challenges, the School of Mental Health & Social Work offers a Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Psychology. 

Grounded in the science-practitioner model, Clinical Psychology (MS) prepares students for clinical work or doctoral study. Students build skills in assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment while developing strong ethical judgment and cultural responsiveness. Through supervised clinical training, research, and community partnerships, graduates are ready for careers in mental health agencies, hospitals, schools, private practice, or advanced doctoral training. 

The clinical training includes the clinical internship courses, which occur in the last year of the program. The clinical internship is a 700-hour, supervised clinical experience designed to allow students to develop their clinical skills. All graduate courses in the Clinical Psychology Program are face-to-face and are offered in the evening to accommodate working professionals. 

The MS in Clinical Psychology at Barry University is accredited by the Masters in Psychology and Counseling Accreditation Council (MPCAC) for the period of September 2023 through September 2031.  

Barry University’s Accelerated BS/MS in Clinical Psychology allows qualified psychology majors to earn both a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a 60-credit Master of Science in Clinical Psychology in six years instead of seven. Students complete undergraduate requirements in the first three years, begin graduate coursework in year four, and receive the BS after successfully completing the first year of the master’s program. The MS is awarded upon completion of all graduate requirements. This accelerated pathway reduces time and cost while providing earlier entry into the professional field, with the option to revert to the traditional BS if a student does not continue in the graduate year. 

Internships are designed to help students develop clinical skills and to meet the licensing requirements for a Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida. The 700-hour internship provides the opportunity for the student to perform, under supervision in a mental health facility, a variety of clinically related activities that a licensed professional with a Master Degree in Clinical Psychology would be expected to perform.  

The clinical experience includes a minimum of 280 hours of direct client contact hours. Weekly meetings with both faculty supervisors and field supervisors are required. Prerequisites: successful completion of prerequisite courses, approval by the faculty, and acceptance by the placement site (Fall, Spring). 

Research in the clinical psychology program is a core component and is integrated throughout the curriculum. Students are systematically trained in research design, quantitative and qualitative methods, ethical research conduct, and data analysis, with an emphasis on clinically relevant, evidence-based inquiry.  

Under close faculty mentorship, students engage in applied and empirical research that informs assessment, intervention, and prevention, preparing them to critically evaluate scientific literature and contribute to the advancement of psychological science and practice. 

The program meets Florida’s educational requirements for licensure as a mental health counselor. Additional information on Florida licensure is available through the Florida Board of Mental Health Professions, and licensure requirements for other states can be found through the American Counseling Association.

Barry University is here to support you every step of the admissions process. With small class sizes, personalized faculty support, and a collaborative community, you’ll be empowered and gain the confidence to take your career further. 

Choosing a master’s or doctoral program is a big decision, and we understand that you may have questions about the application process, course structure, or how to balance your studies with work and life. That’s why our Graduate Admissions Team is here to help! 

Schedule a time that works for you and begin the conversation. Our team is excited to learn more about you and we can’t wait to see you break through @ Barry University.  

Barry University offers competitive, affordable tuition with the personalized experience of a private institution. Scholarships, assistantships, and financial aid options are available to help offset costs, with dedicated staff to guide you through the process.  

Visit the Graduate Financial Aid page to learn more.