Master’s Degree (MS) in General/Experimental Psychology

The Psychology Department at Fort Hays State University offers a Master’s Degree (MS) in General/Experimental Psychology. The mission of the General/Experimental Graduate Program is to provide graduate level training in psychology as a foundation for doctoral studies or for employment in such careers as education, community college instruction, or research. The purpose of obtaining a MS in General/Experimental Psychology is related to a particular student’s career goals. First, the program is a great stepping stone to a doctoral program. The MS in General/Experimental Psychology allows students to obtain a strong foundation in psychology, to explore various areas of psychology to determine a concentration area for doctoral work, and to develop skills and abilities that are necessary for graduate level work. Second, the program helps prepare students for teaching at the community college level or helps extend the education and training of current educators. Third, the program trains students for research positions in a variety of organizations and work settings, such as research institutes, program evaluation, management, and non-profit organizations.

Working with a mentor/advisor, students build a plan of study that suits their career interests and future goals. All students take coursework that provides a strong foundation in research methods and statistical analysis, as well as a master’s thesis. Multiple opportunities to pursue individual research interests as well as to conduct collaborative research with faculty are available. Graduate Teaching Assistantships are also available. Students are able to tailor their coursework to their individual career plans.

Graduates from the MS program in General/Experimental Psychology at FHSU have gone on to doctoral programs in psychology at institutions such as the University of Oklahoma, Kansas State University, and Texas Tech University. In addition, graduates now work at businesses or with non-profit organizations, have attended medical school and law school, and have sought advanced degrees in other related fields. Faculty involved with the MS program in General/Experimental Psychology (Dr. Kaira Hayes, Dr. Heath Marrs, Dr. Stephen Kitzis, Dr. Janett Naylor, and Dr. Carol Patrick) conduct research in various fields and are able to help students develop a specific program of study and research.

Requirements for the MS in General/Experimental Psychology

For more information concerning the MS program in General/Experimental Psychology, please contact:
Dr. Janett Naylor, Interim Director of the General/Experimental Psychology
Department of Psychology
Fort Hays State University
785-628-5857
jmnaylor@fhsu.edu