THE UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO
MAPSS-Psychology
MAPSS-Psychology is a highly selective track focused on providing graduate-level training in the field of research psychology. We do not offer clinical psychology training or experience. While clinical interests and a desire for research training are welcome in our program, the University of Chicago Department of Psychology does not have a clinical area. Therefore, the MAPSS-Psychology concentration does not provide clinical research experience, clinical courses, or any form of clinical training.
Admissions
Prospective students interested in MAPSS-Psychology must select Psychology as their intended concentration on the application. Competitive applicants usually have a degree in Psychology or a closely related field, or at least two semesters of postgraduate coursework in psychology or a related discipline, including training in statistics. Research experience in psychology or a directly related field is strongly recommended.
Students admitted to the MAPSS-Psychology concentration will be notified with their offer letters. Students admitted to other areas of MAPSS cannot apply to transfer into MAPSS-Psychology.
Curriculum
MAPSS-Psychology students complete the same requirements as all MAPSS students:
- Perspectives in Social Science Analysis (Autumn)
- One graduate methods course
- Seven graduate electives
- Thesis or capstone project
MAPSS-Psychology students take courses in or cross-listed with the Department of Psychology, and in departments and programs elsewhere at the University such as Comparative Human Development and the Crown School of Social Work.
Like all students in our program, MAPSS-Psychology students receive guidance throughout the year from a preceptor who is an Instructional Professor recognized for excellence in teaching and mentoring.
Lab Placements
MAPSS-Psychology students interested in completing a thesis may pursue a lab placement. Students are invited to indicate their interest in available placements the summer before they matriculate into the program.
Those who secure lab placements work with faculty in the Department of Psychology or related departments such as Comparative Human Development, and are expected to complete a thesis. Gaining lab experience is strongly recommended for students planning to apply to PhD programs; completing both a lab placement and a thesis is an excellent way to do so. Only students with lab placements are eligible to work on a thesis supervised by a faculty member in the Department of Psychology. Students without a lab placement can complete a thesis, but must secure a primary reader from outside the Department of Psychology. Otherwise, students without a lab placement complete a capstone.
STEM OPT for International Students
International students on F-1 or J-1 student visas who complete the Master of Arts Program in the Social Sciences (MAPSS) with the MAPSS-Psychology concentration may be eligible for employment benefits associated with their respective visa type. The MAPSS–Psychology concentration is listed as a STEM designated degree by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for the purposes of the STEM OPT extension, allowing eligible students to apply. However, approval for STEM OPT is at the discretion of U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services. To learn more, visit our Office of International Affairs website. International students applying for STEM OPT are advised to complete a minimum of 4 graduate courses listed or cross-listed with the Department of Psychology. Capstone students are advised to take a minimum of two psychology research methods courses relevant to their interests.