MS in Psychology Child and Adolescent Development

Child and Adolescent Development coursework overview

Coursework tailored to your learning preferences

  • Capella sets the deadlines
  • Weekly online interactions
  • Learn on your time
  • Online

Planning for your degree

  • total quarter credits: 53
  • Quarter length: 10 weeks
  • Course length: 10 weeks
  • Break: 3 weeks between quarters

Course requirements

  • Core 4 courses
  • Specialization 6 courses

Example program course sequence

This example course sequence takes course prerequisites into account, so it can be helpful as a general guide when you register for courses. The number of courses you take in a quarter and the time it takes for you to complete your program can vary. Your academic coach can help answer any course registration questions.

Show all descriptions
PSY5002 Core Foundations of Theory and Practice for Master's Psychology Learners 5 quarter credits In this course, learners acquire the ability to navigate the Capella courseroom and use the resources that support academic success, including the library and writing center. Learners identify and practice the academic requirements (including APA style and formatting) necessary to successfully complete the Master's degree program in their chosen specialization; review their specialization's requirements, associated professional roles and organizations, and ethics and professional standards; and articulate a professional identity based on master's-level psychology or counseling training. For MS in Psychology and MS in Clinical Psychology learners only. Learners may earn credit for either PSY5002 or PSY5005, but not both. Must be taken during the learner's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits
PSY6025 Specialization Course Child Psychology 5 quarter credits Learners gain and apply knowledge of the developmental stages of children from the prenatal period to adolescence. Learners examine how children develop physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively, and evaluate and articulate the influences of family, society, and culture on child and adolescent development. Learners also assess children's evolving needs and apply theory and research to recommend appropriate responses to those needs. Prerequisite: Accelerated Master's Pathway, BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option learners require special permission for registration and must have completed PSYC3700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or better. 5 quarter credits
PSY5110 Specialization Course Ethics and Multicultural Issues in Psychology 5 quarter credits Learners analyze multicultural perspectives and factors such as ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and gender, and their influences on the ethical behavior of psychology professionals. Learners evaluate and articulate multicultural issues within the context of different settings and practice applying ethical reasoning principles and standards within their profession. Prerequisite: PSY5002 or PSY8002. Accelerated Master's Pathway, BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option learners require special permission for registration and must have completed PSYC3700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or better. 5 quarter credits
PSY6010 Specialization Course Human Prenatal Development 5 quarter credits Learners in this course gain an overview of prenatal and postnatal development through the first three months of life. Learners analyze genetic and reproductive technology and articulate its impact on families and society. Throughout the course, learners demonstrate their knowledge of the stages of prenatal development (embryonic and fetal). Learners investigate various prenatal illnesses and physical problems while considering the impact of prenatal health disparities. In addition, learners engage with research, theory, and culturally relevant best practices related to promoting healthy newborn and infant development. 5 quarter credits
RSCH7860 Core Survey of Research Methods 4 quarter credits Learners read critically and evaluate research in order to gain an understanding of the scientific methods of inquiry and the ethical considerations of research. Learners become educated consumers and creators of research. Additionally, learners use their research design skills to analyze and apply research methodologies, validity, reliability and other components of scientific research related to their field of interest. 4 quarter credits
PSY6020 Specialization Course Advocacy in Child and Adolescent Development 5 quarter credits Learners in this course critically evaluate and apply theory and research to child and adolescent development issues and current topics. Learners analyze the impact of policy and legislation in areas such as education, health, mental health, the military, media, and the economy on child and adolescent developmental outcomes and advocate for issues related to policy and legislation that improve the lives of children and adolescents. Prerequisite(s): PSY6010; PSY6025/PSY7220 or PSY6030/PSY7230. 5 quarter credits
PSY6030 Specialization Course Adolescent Psychology 5 quarter credits In this course, learners gain and apply knowledge of the developmental stages from early adolescence to emerging adulthood. Learners evaluate and articulate the physical, psychosocial, emotional, sexual, moral, and cognitive changes associated with adolescent development and examine the ways in which adolescent development is influenced by family, society, and culture. Learners also assess the evolving needs of adolescents and apply theory and research in order to recommend appropriate responses to those needs. 5 quarter credits
RSCH7864 Core Quantitative Design and Analysis 4 quarter credits Learners gain an understanding of the logic, computation, and interpretation of statistics, with an emphasis on decision-making skills in the research process and on the application and interpretation of statistical results. Learners utilize the statistical program JASP to practice running and interpreting statistical analyses. 4 quarter credits
PSY7610 Core Tests and Measurements 5 quarter credits Learners investigate focuses on essential concepts, principles, applications, and social and theoretical issues of psychological testing. Learners gain understanding in the construction of tests; analyze the development and use of tests in measuring aptitudes, achievement, attitudes, interests, and personality; and identify underlying theories of various tests. Learners analyze the characteristics desired in psychological and educational tests, with particular emphasis on reliability and validity, and evaluate best practices and professional standards for educational and psychological testing, including test bias and fairness. In addition, learners assess the role of technology in delivery, administration, scoring, and interpretation of tests. Prerequisite(s): BS in Psychology, Combined BS in Psychology/MS in Clinical Psychology option and BS in Psychology, Combined BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option learners must have completed Student Group BMGA. 5 quarter credits
PSY6015 Specialization Course Lifespan Development 5 quarter credits Learners gain and apply knowledge of lifespan development from infancy through adulthood, including human development processes and milestones while considering individual and cultural differences. Learners evaluate theories and approaches for examining human development and analyze human development processes related to their specialization. Prerequisite: Accelerated Master's Pathway, BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option learners require special permission for registration and must have completed PSYC3700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or better. 5 quarter credits
PSY5201 Integrative Project Integrative Project for Master's Degree in Psychology 5 quarter credits In this course, learners demonstrate knowledge, scholarship, and research proficiency in their chosen psychology specialization. As they engage with a faculty mentor in the preparation of a five-chapter integrative project, learners develop and demonstrate academic and professional competency in proposing new and original research, writing and applying for grants, adhering to ethical standards, addressing diversity and individual variation in psychology, and explaining psychology concepts. For MS in Psychology learners only. Must be taken during the learner's final quarter. Prerequisite(s): All required and elective coursework. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits

What can I expect in the courseroom?

Each unit consists of readings, discussions and other activities you will be expected to complete throughout the week. Most deadlines for coursework occur on Thursdays and/or Sundays but may vary by program and course. In each course, you will receive a detailed scoring guide that describes expectations for every graded assignment.

How will I be graded?

Grades are based on your participation in weekly reading discussions and completion of assignments, based on criteria outlined in the rubric. You will also be assessed on your ability to demonstrate an understanding of expected outcomes for your program or specialization. These outcomes are based on the needs and performance standards of your field or discipline.

Learn more about online learning at Capella

Total

At least 48 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

GuidedPath courses and FlexPath courses fulfill the program requirements and prerequisites for each delivery model.

Multiple specializations available (must be within the same degree program)

Specialization course requirements

Complete at least 30 quarter credits from the specialization courses shown below.

Show all descriptions
PSY6015 Specialization Course Lifespan Development 5 quarter credits Learners gain and apply knowledge of lifespan development from infancy through adulthood, including human development processes and milestones while considering individual and cultural differences. Learners evaluate theories and approaches for examining human development and analyze human development processes related to their specialization. Prerequisite: Accelerated Master's Pathway, BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option learners require special permission for registration and must have completed PSYC3700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or better. 5 quarter credits
PSY6025 Specialization Course Child Psychology 5 quarter credits Learners gain and apply knowledge of the developmental stages of children from the prenatal period to adolescence. Learners examine how children develop physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively, and evaluate and articulate the influences of family, society, and culture on child and adolescent development. Learners also assess children's evolving needs and apply theory and research to recommend appropriate responses to those needs. Prerequisite: Accelerated Master's Pathway, BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option learners require special permission for registration and must have completed PSYC3700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or better. 5 quarter credits
PSY6010 Specialization Course Human Prenatal Development 5 quarter credits Learners in this course gain an overview of prenatal and postnatal development through the first three months of life. Learners analyze genetic and reproductive technology and articulate its impact on families and society. Throughout the course, learners demonstrate their knowledge of the stages of prenatal development (embryonic and fetal). Learners investigate various prenatal illnesses and physical problems while considering the impact of prenatal health disparities. In addition, learners engage with research, theory, and culturally relevant best practices related to promoting healthy newborn and infant development. 5 quarter credits
PSY6020 Specialization Course Advocacy in Child and Adolescent Development 5 quarter credits Learners in this course critically evaluate and apply theory and research to child and adolescent development issues and current topics. Learners analyze the impact of policy and legislation in areas such as education, health, mental health, the military, media, and the economy on child and adolescent developmental outcomes and advocate for issues related to policy and legislation that improve the lives of children and adolescents. Prerequisite(s): PSY6010; PSY6025/PSY7220 or PSY6030/PSY7230. 5 quarter credits
PSY6030 Specialization Course Adolescent Psychology 5 quarter credits In this course, learners gain and apply knowledge of the developmental stages from early adolescence to emerging adulthood. Learners evaluate and articulate the physical, psychosocial, emotional, sexual, moral, and cognitive changes associated with adolescent development and examine the ways in which adolescent development is influenced by family, society, and culture. Learners also assess the evolving needs of adolescents and apply theory and research in order to recommend appropriate responses to those needs. 5 quarter credits
PSY5110 Specialization Course Ethics and Multicultural Issues in Psychology 5 quarter credits Learners analyze multicultural perspectives and factors such as ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and gender, and their influences on the ethical behavior of psychology professionals. Learners evaluate and articulate multicultural issues within the context of different settings and practice applying ethical reasoning principles and standards within their profession. Prerequisite: PSY5002 or PSY8002. Accelerated Master's Pathway, BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option learners require special permission for registration and must have completed PSYC3700 and PSYC4101 with a cumulative GPA of 2.8 or better. 5 quarter credits

Total

At least 48 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

GuidedPath courses and FlexPath courses fulfill the program requirements and prerequisites for each delivery model.

Multiple specializations available (must be within the same degree program)

Show all descriptions
PSY5201 Integrative Project Integrative Project for Master's Degree in Psychology 5 quarter credits In this course, learners demonstrate knowledge, scholarship, and research proficiency in their chosen psychology specialization. As they engage with a faculty mentor in the preparation of a five-chapter integrative project, learners develop and demonstrate academic and professional competency in proposing new and original research, writing and applying for grants, adhering to ethical standards, addressing diversity and individual variation in psychology, and explaining psychology concepts. For MS in Psychology learners only. Must be taken during the learner's final quarter. Prerequisite(s): All required and elective coursework. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits

Total

At least 48 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

GuidedPath courses and FlexPath courses fulfill the program requirements and prerequisites for each delivery model.

Multiple specializations available (must be within the same degree program)

Core course requirements

Complete at least 18 quarter credits in the core courses category. Choose from the courses shown below.

Show all descriptions
RSCH7864 Core Quantitative Design and Analysis 4 quarter credits Learners gain an understanding of the logic, computation, and interpretation of statistics, with an emphasis on decision-making skills in the research process and on the application and interpretation of statistical results. Learners utilize the statistical program JASP to practice running and interpreting statistical analyses. 4 quarter credits
PSY5002 Core Foundations of Theory and Practice for Master's Psychology Learners 5 quarter credits In this course, learners acquire the ability to navigate the Capella courseroom and use the resources that support academic success, including the library and writing center. Learners identify and practice the academic requirements (including APA style and formatting) necessary to successfully complete the Master's degree program in their chosen specialization; review their specialization's requirements, associated professional roles and organizations, and ethics and professional standards; and articulate a professional identity based on master's-level psychology or counseling training. For MS in Psychology and MS in Clinical Psychology learners only. Learners may earn credit for either PSY5002 or PSY5005, but not both. Must be taken during the learner's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits
PSY7610 Core Tests and Measurements 5 quarter credits Learners investigate focuses on essential concepts, principles, applications, and social and theoretical issues of psychological testing. Learners gain understanding in the construction of tests; analyze the development and use of tests in measuring aptitudes, achievement, attitudes, interests, and personality; and identify underlying theories of various tests. Learners analyze the characteristics desired in psychological and educational tests, with particular emphasis on reliability and validity, and evaluate best practices and professional standards for educational and psychological testing, including test bias and fairness. In addition, learners assess the role of technology in delivery, administration, scoring, and interpretation of tests. Prerequisite(s): BS in Psychology, Combined BS in Psychology/MS in Clinical Psychology option and BS in Psychology, Combined BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option learners must have completed Student Group BMGA. 5 quarter credits
RSCH7860 Core Survey of Research Methods 4 quarter credits Learners read critically and evaluate research in order to gain an understanding of the scientific methods of inquiry and the ethical considerations of research. Learners become educated consumers and creators of research. Additionally, learners use their research design skills to analyze and apply research methodologies, validity, reliability and other components of scientific research related to their field of interest. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 48 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

GuidedPath courses and FlexPath courses fulfill the program requirements and prerequisites for each delivery model.

Multiple specializations available (must be within the same degree program)

Coursework tailored to your learning preferences

  • Set your own deadlines
  • Complete courses at your pace
  • Support when you need it
  • Online

Planning for your degree

  • total program points: 26
  • Monthly start dates
  • Session length: 12 weeks

Course requirements

  • Core 4 courses
  • Specialization 6 courses

Example program course sequence

This example course sequence takes course prerequisites into account, so it can be helpful as a general guide when you register for courses. In the FlexPath format, you can take a maximum of two courses at a time, and the time it takes for you to complete your program can vary. Check in with your academic coach to get help with course registration questions.

Show all descriptions
PSY-FPX5002 Core Foundations of Theory and Practice for Master's Psychology Learners 5 quarter credits In this course, learners acquire the ability to navigate the Capella courseroom and use the resources that support academic success, including the library and writing center. Learners identify and practice the academic requirements (including APA style and formatting) necessary to successfully complete the master's degree program in their chosen specialization; review their specialization's requirements, associated professional roles and organizations, and ethics and professional standards; and articulate a professional identity based on master's-level psychology training. For MS in Psychology learners only. Must be taken during the learner's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits
PSY-FPX6025 Specialization Course Child Psychology 5 quarter credits Learners gain and apply knowledge of the developmental stages of children from the prenatal period to adolescence. Learners examine how children develop physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively, and evaluate and articulate the influences of family, society, and culture on child and adolescent development. Learners also assess children's evolving needs and apply theory and research to recommend appropriate responses to those needs. Prerequisite: Accelerated Master's Pathway, BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option, FlexPath option learners require special permission for registration and must have completed PSYC-FPX3700 or PSY-FPX4700 and PSYC-FPX4101. 5 quarter credits
PSY-FPX5110 Specialization Course Ethics and Multicultural Issues in Psychology 5 quarter credits Learners analyze multicultural perspectives and factors such as ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and gender, and their influences on the ethical behavior of psychology professionals. Learners evaluate and articulate multicultural issues within the context of different settings and practice applying ethical reasoning principles and standards within their profession. Prerequisite: Accelerated Master's Pathway, BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option, FlexPath option learners require special permission for registration and must have completed PSYC-FPX3700 or PSYC-FPX4700 and PSYC-FPX4101. 5 quarter credits
PSY-FPX6010 Specialization Course Human Prenatal Development 5 quarter credits Learners in this course gain an overview of prenatal and postnatal development through the first three months of life. Learners analyze genetic and reproductive technology and articulate its impact on families and society. Throughout the course, learners demonstrate their knowledge of the stages of prenatal development (embryonic and fetal). Learners investigate various prenatal illnesses and physical problems while considering the impact of prenatal health disparities. In addition, learners engage with research, theory, and culturally relevant best practices related to promoting healthy newborn and infant development. 5 quarter credits
RSCH-FPX7860 Core Survey of Research Methods 4 quarter credits Learners in this course critically evaluate research in order to gain an understanding of the scientific methods of inquiry and the ethical considerations of research. Learners develop and apply skills needed to become educated consumers and creators of research. Learners also use their research design skills to analyze and apply research methodologies, validity, reliability and other components of scientific research related to their field of interest. 4 quarter credits
PSY-FPX6020 Specialization Course Advocacy in Child and Adolescent Development 5 quarter credits Learners in this course critically evaluate and apply theory and research to child and adolescent development issues and current topics. Learners analyze the impact of policy and legislation in areas such as education, health, mental health, the military, media, and the economy on child and adolescent developmental outcomes and advocate for issues related to policy and legislation that improve the lives of children and adolescents. Prerequisite(s): PSY-FPX6010; PSY-FPX6025/PSY-FPX7220 or PSY-FPX6030/PSY-FPX7230. 5 quarter credits
PSY-FPX6030 Specialization Course Adolescent Psychology 5 quarter credits In this course, learners gain and apply knowledge of the developmental stages from early adolescence to emerging adulthood. Learners evaluate and articulate the physical, psychosocial, emotional, sexual, moral, and cognitive changes associated with adolescent development and examine the ways in which adolescent development is influenced by family, society, and culture. Learners also assess the evolving needs of adolescents and apply theory and research in order to recommend appropriate responses to those needs. 5 quarter credits
RSCH-FPX7864 Core Quantitative Design and Analysis 4 quarter credits Learners gain an understanding of the logic, computation, and interpretation of statistics, with an emphasis on decision-making skills in the research process and on the application and interpretation of statistical results. Learners utilize the statistical program JASP to practice running and interpreting statistical analyses. 4 quarter credits
PSY-FPX7610 Core Tests and Measurements 5 quarter credits This course is an introduction to the subject of mental measurement in psychology. Course topics include techniques for correctly interpreting test scores such as percentiles, standard err07/01ors of measurement, standard scores, and validity and reliability. Learners acquire and demonstrate knowledge of measuring devices used in the fields of intelligence, interests, personality, and special aptitudes, and identify professional standards of test development and use. The course also includes analysis of the psychometric procedures used to develop and validate educational and psychological instruments and requires learners to present appropriate applications for each type of methodology. 5 quarter credits
PSY-FPX6015 Specialization Course Lifespan Development 5 quarter credits Learners gain and apply knowledge of lifespan development from infancy through adulthood, including human development processes and milestones while considering individual and cultural differences. Learners evaluate theories and approaches for examining human development and analyze human development processes related to their specialization. Prerequisite: Accelerated Master's Pathway, BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option, FlexPath option learners require special permission for registration and must have completed PSYC-FPX3700 or PSY-FPX4700 and PSYC-FPX4101. 5 quarter credits
PSY-FPX5201 Integrative Project Integrative Project for Master's Degree in Psychology 5 quarter credits In this course, learners demonstrate knowledge, scholarship, and research proficiency in their chosen psychology specialization. As they engage with a faculty mentor in the preparation of a five-chapter integrative project, learners develop and demonstrate academic and professional competency in proposing new and original research, writing and applying for grants, adhering to ethical standards, addressing diversity and individual variation in psychology, and explaining psychology concepts. For MS in Psychology learners only. Must be taken during the learner's final quarter. Prerequisite(s): All required and elective coursework. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits

What can I expect in the courseroom?

With FlexPath, you set your deadlines within the first 12 days of each course. Take one or two courses at a time and complete them on your schedule. While these deadlines can be adjusted at any time after you set them, you’ll be required to engage in a course activity at least once every 28 days and finish each course within 12 weeks. You’ll use the same quick and seamless process for submitting assessments for every course. A scoring guide explains what you’ll be evaluated on, and a competency map shows your progress.

How will I be graded?

Each course in FlexPath is based on a set of competencies, which are further broken down into criteria. A criterion is a specific step in demonstrating a competency. You’ll have a scoring guide that explains competencies and each criterion. As you complete assessments, your score on each criterion is evaluated against this scoring guide. Each time you receive an evaluation on a criterion, your competency map will update to reflect your progress. To pass a course, you must meet the minimum level requirement set by your program for every competency in the course.

Learn more about online learning at Capella

Total

At least 26.5 program points

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

GuidedPath courses and FlexPath courses fulfill the program requirements and prerequisites for each delivery model.

Specialization course requirements

Complete at least 15 program points in the specialization courses category shown below.

Show all descriptions
PSY-FPX6025 Specialization Course Child Psychology 5 quarter credits Learners gain and apply knowledge of the developmental stages of children from the prenatal period to adolescence. Learners examine how children develop physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively, and evaluate and articulate the influences of family, society, and culture on child and adolescent development. Learners also assess children's evolving needs and apply theory and research to recommend appropriate responses to those needs. Prerequisite: Accelerated Master's Pathway, BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option, FlexPath option learners require special permission for registration and must have completed PSYC-FPX3700 or PSY-FPX4700 and PSYC-FPX4101. 5 quarter credits
PSY-FPX5110 Specialization Course Ethics and Multicultural Issues in Psychology 5 quarter credits Learners analyze multicultural perspectives and factors such as ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and gender, and their influences on the ethical behavior of psychology professionals. Learners evaluate and articulate multicultural issues within the context of different settings and practice applying ethical reasoning principles and standards within their profession. Prerequisite: Accelerated Master's Pathway, BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option, FlexPath option learners require special permission for registration and must have completed PSYC-FPX3700 or PSYC-FPX4700 and PSYC-FPX4101. 5 quarter credits
PSY-FPX6010 Specialization Course Human Prenatal Development 5 quarter credits Learners in this course gain an overview of prenatal and postnatal development through the first three months of life. Learners analyze genetic and reproductive technology and articulate its impact on families and society. Throughout the course, learners demonstrate their knowledge of the stages of prenatal development (embryonic and fetal). Learners investigate various prenatal illnesses and physical problems while considering the impact of prenatal health disparities. In addition, learners engage with research, theory, and culturally relevant best practices related to promoting healthy newborn and infant development. 5 quarter credits
PSY-FPX6020 Specialization Course Advocacy in Child and Adolescent Development 5 quarter credits Learners in this course critically evaluate and apply theory and research to child and adolescent development issues and current topics. Learners analyze the impact of policy and legislation in areas such as education, health, mental health, the military, media, and the economy on child and adolescent developmental outcomes and advocate for issues related to policy and legislation that improve the lives of children and adolescents. Prerequisite(s): PSY-FPX6010; PSY-FPX6025/PSY-FPX7220 or PSY-FPX6030/PSY-FPX7230. 5 quarter credits
PSY-FPX6030 Specialization Course Adolescent Psychology 5 quarter credits In this course, learners gain and apply knowledge of the developmental stages from early adolescence to emerging adulthood. Learners evaluate and articulate the physical, psychosocial, emotional, sexual, moral, and cognitive changes associated with adolescent development and examine the ways in which adolescent development is influenced by family, society, and culture. Learners also assess the evolving needs of adolescents and apply theory and research in order to recommend appropriate responses to those needs. 5 quarter credits
PSY-FPX6015 Specialization Course Lifespan Development 5 quarter credits Learners gain and apply knowledge of lifespan development from infancy through adulthood, including human development processes and milestones while considering individual and cultural differences. Learners evaluate theories and approaches for examining human development and analyze human development processes related to their specialization. Prerequisite: Accelerated Master's Pathway, BS in Psychology/MS in Psychology option, FlexPath option learners require special permission for registration and must have completed PSYC-FPX3700 or PSY-FPX4700 and PSYC-FPX4101. 5 quarter credits

Total

At least 26.5 program points

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

GuidedPath courses and FlexPath courses fulfill the program requirements and prerequisites for each delivery model.

Show all descriptions
PSY-FPX5201 Integrative Project Integrative Project for Master's Degree in Psychology 5 quarter credits In this course, learners demonstrate knowledge, scholarship, and research proficiency in their chosen psychology specialization. As they engage with a faculty mentor in the preparation of a five-chapter integrative project, learners develop and demonstrate academic and professional competency in proposing new and original research, writing and applying for grants, adhering to ethical standards, addressing diversity and individual variation in psychology, and explaining psychology concepts. For MS in Psychology learners only. Must be taken during the learner's final quarter. Prerequisite(s): All required and elective coursework. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits

Total

At least 26.5 program points

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

GuidedPath courses and FlexPath courses fulfill the program requirements and prerequisites for each delivery model.

Core course requirements

Choose 9 program points with a minimum of 2 program points from each category. Choose from the courses shown below.

Show all descriptions
PSY-FPX5002 Core Foundations of Theory and Practice for Master's Psychology Learners 5 quarter credits In this course, learners acquire the ability to navigate the Capella courseroom and use the resources that support academic success, including the library and writing center. Learners identify and practice the academic requirements (including APA style and formatting) necessary to successfully complete the master's degree program in their chosen specialization; review their specialization's requirements, associated professional roles and organizations, and ethics and professional standards; and articulate a professional identity based on master's-level psychology training. For MS in Psychology learners only. Must be taken during the learner's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 5 quarter credits
RSCH-FPX7860 Core Survey of Research Methods 4 quarter credits Learners in this course critically evaluate research in order to gain an understanding of the scientific methods of inquiry and the ethical considerations of research. Learners develop and apply skills needed to become educated consumers and creators of research. Learners also use their research design skills to analyze and apply research methodologies, validity, reliability and other components of scientific research related to their field of interest. 4 quarter credits
RSCH-FPX7864 Core Quantitative Design and Analysis 4 quarter credits Learners gain an understanding of the logic, computation, and interpretation of statistics, with an emphasis on decision-making skills in the research process and on the application and interpretation of statistical results. Learners utilize the statistical program JASP to practice running and interpreting statistical analyses. 4 quarter credits
PSY-FPX7610 Core Tests and Measurements 5 quarter credits This course is an introduction to the subject of mental measurement in psychology. Course topics include techniques for correctly interpreting test scores such as percentiles, standard err07/01ors of measurement, standard scores, and validity and reliability. Learners acquire and demonstrate knowledge of measuring devices used in the fields of intelligence, interests, personality, and special aptitudes, and identify professional standards of test development and use. The course also includes analysis of the psychometric procedures used to develop and validate educational and psychological instruments and requires learners to present appropriate applications for each type of methodology. 5 quarter credits

Total

At least 26.5 program points

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Learners who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

GuidedPath courses and FlexPath courses fulfill the program requirements and prerequisites for each delivery model.