Applied Psychology (MS)

Seeley G. Mudd, Room 706
(213) 740-2282
Fax: (213) 746-9082
Email: appliedpsychology@usc.edu
dornsife.usc.edu/map
Program Director: Ellen L. Leggett, EdD

The Master of Science in Applied Psychology program (MAP) is designed for individuals who wish to pursue or advance a career in a non-academic field where knowledge of human behavior is essential to effective job performance. The program stresses practical applications of psychological principles related to social influence, human motivation, interpersonal dynamics, decision-making, and performance improvement.

The program is especially appropriate for those who have majored in a behavioral science field, e.g., psychology, sociology, political science or anthropology. These applicants must have received their baccalaureate degree by the semester in which they begin the program.

Applicants must apply for admission to the Graduate School, and satisfy all requirements for admission. Details on the method for applying, admission criteria and deadlines can be found at dornsife.usc.edu/map.

Thirty-four units of course credit is required for the MAP degree. These units are taken from an inventory of courses that are specified for the MAP program. All students are required to take PSYC 505 , PSYC 550a , PSYC 550b , PSYC 552 , PSYC 565 , 4 to 8 units of PSYC 591 , and 2 units of PSYC 592 . The specific number of PSYC 591  units taken in a given semester will depend in part on what options are available from internship sponsors. In addition, students choose from the following courses to focus on either organizational psychology or on consumer psychology: PSYC 513 , PSYC 517 , PSYC 556 , PSYC 622 . MAP students may take up to 4 units of PSYC 590 .

Based on the student’s academic background, work experience and career goals, substitutions of up to two courses may be made from other courses eligible for graduate credit.

The program for a given cohort of students begins in the fall semester. The normal expectation is that full-time students will complete the program in two semesters plus the summer. Part-time students will generally take one or two courses per semester, and must complete the program within five years.

The Master of Science in Applied Psychology program is also available as a part-time, online degree. Students may enter this program in fall, spring or summer terms.