Psychology Graduate Programs

The Department of Psychology offers three distinct graduate degrees.

• Clinical Psychology Program offers a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in General Psychology.
• School Psychology Program offers a Specialist in School Psychology degree.
• The Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) is a three-year, post-Masters professional preparation program.

These graduate programs offer unique and excellent opportunities for hands-on research in laboratory and applied settings, as well as engagement with community agencies (e.g., schools, mental health clinics, hospitals). Our graduate students work collaboratively with faculty mentors to create educational experiences based on their professional goals and interests.

Clinical Psychology

School Psychology

Doctor of Psychology

Virtual Open House

Tuesday, August 5, 2025: 5-6:30 p.m.

Join us at one of our upcoming virtual Graduate School Open House events on Zoom! You'll have the opportunity to learn more about Western Carolina University,  understand the Graduate School application process, and meet key program representatives.

Register Today

Contact and Admissions Information

The WCU Graduate School provides more information about the psychology graduate programs and how to apply to the WCU Graduate School.

For more information about the Clinical Psychology MA program or the Doctor of Psychology program, contact Dr. David Solomon.

For more information about the School Psychology program, contact Dr. Lori Unruh.

Psychology Program Awarded a $1.25M Grant

The U.S. Department of Education has awarded a $1.25 million grant to Western Carolina University for groundbreaking instruction to prepare professionals for work with children with autism.

The grant will be distributed over five years to the university and used to train 60 graduate students in psychology, special education and speech-language pathology programs on how to address the complex needs of children with autism spectrum disorders. 
Learn More

Social and Emotional Learning Built into an Elementary School Morning Meeting

Amy Childers - Specialist in School Psychology