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About This Program
Explore human behavior including lifespan development, social and cultural diversity, personality, and psychopathology through the master’s in psychology at American Public University (APU).
APU’s online master’s in psychology blends the scientific principles, academic research, and applicable skills sought by field professionals.
You learn classical and fundamental schools of thought and gain contemporary insight into how the human mind works through organizational and behavioral psychology. Your Master of Arts in Psychology studies conclude with an integrative capstone project challenging you to synthesize and articulate knowledge you’ve gained through inquiry and analysis of peer-reviewed, scholarly literature.
NOTE: APU’s master’s degree in psychology does not provide licensure to engage in clinical practice, preparation for licensure, or professional certification.
What You Will Do
- Apply core concepts of psychology to normal and abnormal individual, social, cultural, and organizational functioning
- Examine past and current trends related to theory, research, and practice within the field of psychology
- Evaluate discipline-related scholarly resources
- Write competently to meet the standards of the American Psychological Association and be able to apply the Ethical Principles of the American Psychological Association
Degree at a Glance
Number of Credits
39
Cost Per Credit
$455 | $250*
$386.75** | $409.50***
$386.75** | $409.50***
Courses Start Monthly
Online
-
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Program Requirements Printable Catalog Version
Students must choose a concentration for this degree program:
The concentration in Development/Personality Psychology provides students with in-depth study of theory and research associated with normal and abnormal human development and personality. The topics associated with lifespan development, psychopathology, substance abuse and counseling are addressed.
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Compare and contrast major theories of personality and developmental psychology.
- Analyze the impact of development and personality on interpersonal relationships.
- Describe normal and abnormal development and personality, including diagnoses and treatments of the major forms of psychopathology.
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 4039
|
This course reviews social, emotional, cultural, cognitive, biological, and learning theories and research related to human development. Emphasis is on both healthy development and challenges experienced by individuals and groups across the human life cycle. Cultural differences and commonality noted in the developmental process are examined.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4042
|
This course explores the processes of normal and abnormal personality development and models of counseling and psychotherapy including psychoanalytic, behavioral, cognitive, and existential approaches.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4044
|
This course guides graduate level learners in in-depth study of classic and contemporary theories and treatment of abnormal human functioning. Students will undertake extensive investigation of cultural factors related to the expression and effective assessment of pathology.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4048
|
This course guides graduate learners in advanced level study of addictive disorders, including the historical and social context of the addictive process and the neurobiology of substance dependence. Course foci include the assessment of addiction, the substances of abuse, issues experienced by special populations, and available treatments for substance abuse and addiction.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
The General Concentration allows students to select from a variety of course offerings in various specialties in the field. Coursework provides students with a broad understanding of theory, principles, research, and ideas across multiple psychological domains.
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Examine historical and contemporary trends occurring across multiple domains of theory, research and practice within the field of psychology.
- Apply core concepts of psychology to normal and abnormal individual, social, cultural, and organizational functioning.
- Construct discipline-relevant research proposals.
- Evaluate scholarly resources pertinent to the discipline.
- Write competently in accordance with the standards of the American Psychological Association.
- Investigate professional opportunities, responsibilities and challenges experienced by practitioners within the discipline.
- Apply the Ethical Principles of the American Psychological Association.
Choose 12 credit hours from this section.
Course ID: 4039
|
This course reviews social, emotional, cultural, cognitive, biological, and learning theories and research related to human development. Emphasis is on both healthy development and challenges experienced by individuals and groups across the human life cycle. Cultural differences and commonality noted in the developmental process are examined.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4040
|
This course guides students through advanced level, in-depth and detailed study of classic and contemporary models of human cognition and learning through the lenses of the principle schools of psychology. Specific theories addressed include: functionalistic, associationistic, and cognitive.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4975
|
This course provides an overview of the primary concepts and theory in industrial and organizational psychology. Focus will be on understanding human behavior in organizations and the workplace. Concepts such as motivation, leadership, employee training and recruitment, performance measurement, and work/life balance will be discussed.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4978
|
This course will explore the unique psychology associated with military deployment, both for the person being deployed and their family and loved ones. Military culture, common psychological difficulties such as depression and PTSD, as well as provider self-care and burnout will be discussed.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4979
|
Students will explore research and historical real world examples of natural and man-made disasters to consider best practices in managing effective emergency response. Specific focus will be on understanding and mitigating post-traumatic stress, as well as military related disasters and emergencies. Students will learn about emergency response, recovery, and follow-up for victims of disaster.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08/26/24 - 01/31/25 | 02/03/25 - 03/30/25 | Winter 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4041
|
This course is a graduate level study of cultural issues and social influences on human functioning. Classic foundations combine with new research, recent methodological and up-to-date theoretical innovations to form the basis of a study that integrates scholarship and applied social psychology for everyday living.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4042
|
This course explores the processes of normal and abnormal personality development and models of counseling and psychotherapy including psychoanalytic, behavioral, cognitive, and existential approaches.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4981
|
In this course, students will learn about human behavior in a variety of organizational contexts. The influence of inter and intrapersonal behavior, motivation, group dynamics, leadership, organizational culture/structure, and ethics in organizational behavior will be explored through study of organizational behavioral theory, research, and case studies.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4977
|
This course will provide students with instruction on the theory and application of leadership behaviors, particularly in the context of leading change. Concepts such as influence, motivation, decision-making, conflict/ negotiation strategies and mentoring will be explored.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4043
|
This advanced level course focuses on the physiological processes underlying normal and pathological behavior. Neurological features of disorders such as schizophrenia and depression are examined.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08/26/24 - 01/31/25 | 02/03/25 - 03/30/25 | Winter 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4044
|
This course guides graduate level learners in in-depth study of classic and contemporary theories and treatment of abnormal human functioning. Students will undertake extensive investigation of cultural factors related to the expression and effective assessment of pathology.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4048
|
This course guides graduate learners in advanced level study of addictive disorders, including the historical and social context of the addictive process and the neurobiology of substance dependence. Course foci include the assessment of addiction, the substances of abuse, issues experienced by special populations, and available treatments for substance abuse and addiction.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4049
|
This course offers an in-depth analysis of crisis and trauma events, survivor responses and needs, and competent strategic interventions. A theoretical approach draws on systems and developmental constructs to provide an assessment and intervention model that is both holistic and integrated within particular environments. Unique crisis events are addressed, including sexual assault, domestic violence, disasters (both natural and man-made), service provider stress, complicated bereavement, child abuse and neglect, and school crises.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
The concentration in Industrial/Organizational Psychology explores psychological topics related to organizational and workplace settings including, among others: motivation, organizational culture, leadership, and workplace assessment.
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Apply psychological theory and research to various scenarios in workplace settings.
- Evaluate organizational culture and structure in the context of understanding and responding to organizational and individual employee needs.
- Effectively apply leadership principles to personal and professional settings.
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 4975
|
This course provides an overview of the primary concepts and theory in industrial and organizational psychology. Focus will be on understanding human behavior in organizations and the workplace. Concepts such as motivation, leadership, employee training and recruitment, performance measurement, and work/life balance will be discussed.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4981
|
In this course, students will learn about human behavior in a variety of organizational contexts. The influence of inter and intrapersonal behavior, motivation, group dynamics, leadership, organizational culture/structure, and ethics in organizational behavior will be explored through study of organizational behavioral theory, research, and case studies.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4977
|
This course will provide students with instruction on the theory and application of leadership behaviors, particularly in the context of leading change. Concepts such as influence, motivation, decision-making, conflict/ negotiation strategies and mentoring will be explored.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4976
|
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the industrial organizational theory and research. With a focus on application and problem solving in organizational and work contexts, students will evaluate theories and investigate research on motivation, leadership, employee training, performance management, and work/life balance. (Prerequisite: PSYC512)
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
The concentration in Military and Trauma Psychology prepares students to have a strong understanding of psychology topics uniquely associated with military and trauma settings. Students will focus on learning about disaster management, leadership, deployment, and emergency intervention.
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Recognize and define the unique psychological constructs associated with the military experience.
- Apply psychological theory and research to effective leadership in military positions.
- Analyze best practices in response to military related challenges such as PTSD, impact of deployment on families, or disaster management.
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 4978
|
This course will explore the unique psychology associated with military deployment, both for the person being deployed and their family and loved ones. Military culture, common psychological difficulties such as depression and PTSD, as well as provider self-care and burnout will be discussed.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4979
|
Students will explore research and historical real world examples of natural and man-made disasters to consider best practices in managing effective emergency response. Specific focus will be on understanding and mitigating post-traumatic stress, as well as military related disasters and emergencies. Students will learn about emergency response, recovery, and follow-up for victims of disaster.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08/26/24 - 01/31/25 | 02/03/25 - 03/30/25 | Winter 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4977
|
This course will provide students with instruction on the theory and application of leadership behaviors, particularly in the context of leading change. Concepts such as influence, motivation, decision-making, conflict/ negotiation strategies and mentoring will be explored.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4049
|
This course offers an in-depth analysis of crisis and trauma events, survivor responses and needs, and competent strategic interventions. A theoretical approach draws on systems and developmental constructs to provide an assessment and intervention model that is both holistic and integrated within particular environments. Unique crisis events are addressed, including sexual assault, domestic violence, disasters (both natural and man-made), service provider stress, complicated bereavement, child abuse and neglect, and school crises.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
The Child Life Concentration allows students to focus on rigorous study of Child Life theory, practice and application. Coursework will promote development of skills needed to work with children and families during times of acute or chronic illness or trauma while preparing students to complete the academic requirements for the Certified Child Life Specialist credential. There are additional requirements regarding clinical hours that the University does not provide and students must secure their own placement. Additional information on those clinical requirements can be found at www.childlife.org
Note: Completion of this program does not award any professional certifications.
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Explore advanced child life theory and practice.
- Discuss the issues faced by children and their families during times of acute or chronic illness or trauma to include physical, developmental as well as psychological impact.
- Gain professional-level academic training in the field of Child Life.
- Apply evidence-based, developmentally appropriate practices to support children and their families during times of acute or chronic illness.
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 5232
|
Advanced Child Life Theory and Practice provides students with the knowledge and tools to educate, prepare and support children and their families who are experiencing acute or chronic illness or trauma. This course covers scope of practice, impact of illness, family centered care, therapeutic play, preparation and official documents of the Association of Child Life Professionals.
Note: This course is taught by a Certified Child life specialist and meets one of the academic requirements of the Association of Child Life Professionals (ACLP®) to become a Certified Child Life Specialist.
ACLP® is a registered trademark of Child Life Council, Inc.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08/26/24 - 01/31/25 | 02/03/25 - 03/30/25 | Winter 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5233
|
This course will cover the history, theories, techniques, applications, and skills as they relate to therapeutic play. Students will develop therapeutic strategies for meeting children’s emotional needs and helping them to cope during times of acute and chronic illness, bereavement, and trauma. (Prerequisite: HDFS501)
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5234
|
This course explores issues around death and dying and the impact on children to include the theoretical and multicultural perspectives as well as ethical and moral issues. Students will also examine the impact of death and dying on a family and community. Students will engage with tools such as legacy building and memento creation, identify and utilize resources that promote positive coping skills, and identify strategies for helping children to cope with terminal illness and impending death. (Prerequisite: HDFS501)
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08/26/24 - 01/31/25 | 02/03/25 - 03/30/25 | Winter 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5235
|
This course will examine the ecological or systems approach to understanding families as well as a review of historical and contemporary family theories. The course will include a look at family structure, family dynamics, family relationships, and family roles particularly as they are impacted by a wide range of stressors that necessitate intervention strategies. The nature of families will be explored across cultures and diverse family composition.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5276
|
This course examines theory and research relating to cognitive, physical, socio-emotional, and moral development from birth to age 18 years. Emphasis is placed on typical development with some examination of challenges faced during development. Cultural differences and commonalities are reviewed. Applications of theory to educational settings are also examined.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08/26/24 - 01/31/25 | 02/03/25 - 03/30/25 | Winter 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Choose 3 credit hours from this section.
Course ID: 5337
|
This course supports students who are completing a clinical practicum in child life as part of their graduate program in Psychology. This experience will expose students to relevant clinical practices in child life. Students will complete their practicum experience while participating in weekly online discussions throughout the course. Students will be expected to complete a work journal, keep accurate time records, and evaluate their practicum experience. The course will integrate the competencies as outlined by the profession throughout the course. (Prerequisite: HDFS401 or HDFS501)
Note: Students are required to secure their own practicum experience. The University does not assist in placement.
Course ID: 4765
|
This course addresses the nomenclature of healthcare vocabulary and medical terminology for administrators in the health information management (HIM) field. Vocabulary used in the healthcare field provides a common language for practitioners, positively addressing global, as well as safety issues. Students will examine the issues of competing standards, and the different goals and criterions in which terminology and codes were created to address. The course will provide an advanced overview of medical terminology and anatomy used in classification systems in health information management (HIM). Students will study the structures and organization of bodily systems as they relate to the appropriate terminology.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Cyberpsychology is an emerging subfield within psychology that examines the relationship and implications of artificial intelligence and other technology on human interaction and behavior. This graduate concentration provides students from any disciplinary background with an understanding of the interface between technology and human behavior as viewed through the lenses of marketing, cyberintelligence, psychology, ethics, and the law.
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Describe the role and importance of cyberpsychology to human interaction and behavior
- Compare and contrast different modalities of cybercrime
- Apply general principles of law and ethics to online/digital behavior
- Demonstrate the use of psychological tools in informational/deceptive practice
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 3967
|
This course provides an overview of deceptive techniques –how they work and how they can be defeated. It begins by building an understanding of fundamental psychological principles and practices and then taking a look at key information practices. From there, it will look at how some of these practices developed from WWI to the present. Throughout the course, students will be exposed to and will analyze the use of deception and other persuasion techniques in various contexts. These deceptive techniques are illustrated with a series of historical and current case studies, scenarios, and interactive simulations.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08/26/24 - 01/31/25 | 02/03/25 - 03/30/25 | Winter 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4490
|
This course focuses on the ways that law, ethics and cybersecurity overlap and intersect. Besides laws related to cybersecurity, the course examines laws related to intellectual property, civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, and privacy. This examination will provide the means to identify and analyze the policies reflected in those laws. Those policies could guide the creation of policies on a business-level, using qualitative risk assessment and planning. An exploration of ethics and cybersecurity, as well as of workplace ethics, will involve the use of an ethical framework.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 08/26/24 - 01/31/25 | 02/03/25 - 03/30/25 | Winter 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5416
|
This is an introductory course in Cyberpsychology studying the methods that social media (SM) uses to influence consumer decisions and drive effective marketing techniques. The primary topic covered includes the role of social media platforms in social interaction. Students will become familiar with what SM was intended to do, as well as what it has evolved into and why it poses a risk to normal behavior and decision-making. Additional topics covered include an examination of factors that influence election outcomes, factors that guide thought processes and awareness through targeted messaging, and the use of blacklisting or shadow-banning content. The implications of these processes on consumer behavior will also be discussed.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 5417
|
This is an introductory course to cyberdeviance with a unique emphasis on the social science components of criminality in cyber settings. Primary topics include the definition of cybercrime, cyberterrorism, cyberwarfare, and cyberbullying with consideration of possible motivation for such occurrences as well the intrapsychic impacts of such circumstances. Further topics include identify theft, hacking, the global implications of cybercrime, child pornography, law enforcement responses to cybercrime, sociological and psychological implications of cybercrime, and the prospective future of cybercrime as technology continues to evolve.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 4038
|
This course serves to introduce students to the topic of psychological testing. In addition to describing the various types of psychological testing, it will also provide information about test design and construction, administration and scoring, and reliability and validity.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4980
|
This course provides an overview of the primary concepts, genres and mechanics of academic writing at the graduate and professional level. Students will develop writing and editing skills that will assist them in their success as graduate students and future professionals. Discussions, assignments, readings and editing will be utilized to successfully accomplish the goals of this course.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 08/26/24 - 01/31/25 | 02/03/25 - 03/30/25 | Winter 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4045
|
This course is an advanced-level study of the ethical, legal, and professional issues relevant to the practice of professional psychology, including therapy, research, and assessment.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 08/26/24 - 01/31/25 | 02/03/25 - 03/30/25 | Winter 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4973
|
This course provides an overview of the cross-section of research methods that fall under the rubric of qualitative methodology. In examining these multiple approaches to qualitative methods, this course will discuss issues of research ethics, interviewing methods, conversation and discourse analyses, content analyses, and unobtrusive measures. The completion of this course will have applications in pure research, as well as in clinical assessments.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4974
|
This research methods course provides an in-depth examination of quantitative research methods used in sociology and related social sciences. Students will practice designing quantitative research that collects observational, interview, survey, and other types of data.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 08/26/24 - 01/31/25 | 02/03/25 - 03/30/25 | Winter 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Course ID: 4047
|
This graduate level course covers the historical, research and theoretical underpinnings of multicultural psychology. It guides students in a comprehensive examination of diverse cultural groups and in-depth analysis of contemporary multicultural trends and issues related to ethnicity, race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, disability, age and religion. Students will research issues in cultural psychology through the development and design of their own empirical study.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 08/26/24 - 01/31/25 | 02/03/25 - 03/30/25 | Winter 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Select any courses that have not been used to fulfill major requirements. Credits applied toward a minor or certificate in an unrelated field may be used to fulfill elective credit for the major.
Must take all courses for this section.
Course ID: 4035
|
This capstone course is for students completing the master of arts in psychology degree. Students will complete a multi-part, multi-format comprehensive examination to demonstrate their mastery of the knowledge and skills outlined in the program’s expected outcomes.
Review materials are provided as well as opportunities to interact with peers and the instructor, who will answer student questions and support the students’ progress. NOTE: This course may not be taken until all other courses are COMPLETED and the student has a 3.0 GPA.
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07/29/24 - 01/03/25 | 01/06/25 - 03/02/25 | Winter 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 08/26/24 - 01/31/25 | 02/03/25 - 03/30/25 | Winter 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 09/30/24 - 02/28/25 | 03/03/25 - 04/27/25 | Winter 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
| 10/28/24 - 04/04/25 | 04/07/25 - 06/01/25 | Spring 2025 Session B | 8 Week session |
| 11/28/24 - 05/02/25 | 05/05/25 - 06/29/25 | Spring 2025 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 12/30/24 - 05/30/25 | 06/02/25 - 07/27/25 | Spring 2025 Session D | 8 Week session |
Admission Requirements
All master's degree and graduate certificate programs require you to have earned a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an institution whose accreditation is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
In addition, the following is required for admission into this program. All documentation must be provided prior to course registration:
- Minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
- An undergraduate degree in psychology or a completed bachelor's degree in another discipline with credit in the following foundational courses:
- Introduction to psychology or general psychology: a course designed to introduce students to the broad discipline and study of psychology, its key historical and contemporary events, publications, practices, and perspectives.
- Research methods in psychology: a course in which students learn how to develop sound laboratory and field behavioral science research protocols with human subjects.
- Statistical methods in psychology: a course that focuses how to statistically analyze and interpret laboratory and field behavioral science research results.
Note: One course that focuses on both statistical and research methods in psychology may be used to fulfill both of the above course requirements. - For those wishing to pursue the Child Life concentration, an additional prerequisite of a Child Development course covering any age range from birth to 18 (but not all ages) is required.
- A signed Statement of Understanding (SOU) acknowledging that this program does not lead to certification or licensure.
Preadmission courses completed at the graduate level must be grade B or better.
Please read all graduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation including a legible copy of your valid government-issued photo ID (civilian students) or government- issued JST or CCAF transcript (military students).
There is no fee to complete the APU admission application. View steps to apply.
An admissions coach will contact you via email or phone to assist you with the enrollment process, review your documentation, and to notify you when you have been admitted into the program and may register for courses.
Materials Cost
Most courses in this program use Open Educational Resources (OER). These teaching, learning, and research materials are made available to you at no cost, meaning there are minimal book costs associated with earning this degree.
Technology fee: $85 per course
Need Help?
Selecting the right program to meet your educational goals is a key step in ensuring a successful outcome. If you are unsure of which program to choose, or need more information, please contact an APU admissions coach at 877-755-2787 or [email protected].
Quality Education Should Be Affordable
So you can focus on the opportunities ahead, without the financial burden of more expensive schools who are not as invested in your success. Learn more about paying for school.
Consumer Information
Disclosures
Maryland Residents learn more about costs, completion rates, median debt, and more.
1The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.
*Cost Per Credit Hour
The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.
See all military student benefits.
Cost of Attendance
Learn more about American Public University's cost components and full cost of attendance.
