Admissions Information

Psychology, MS (Positive Psychology Concentration)

Is this program right for me?

This program is ideal for those passionate about bringing out the best in others and looking to gain additional knowledge in the field of psychology with a specialization in positive psychology. The ideal candidate for this program is looking for a comprehensive overview of specialized knowledge in psychological concepts, without conducting primary research.

Students in this program want to study the strengths and behaviors that enable individuals and communities to help them thrive. If you would rather study what factors contribute to happiness rather than depression, for example, this program might be a good fit for you. If you wish to pursue professional opportunities in health care or education settings, public health agencies or wellness promotion companies this program will provide the knowledge and skillset necessary to succeed in those professional spaces. Additionally, the positive psychology coursework will benefit graduates working in supervisory or management positions, teaching roles or any social services profession. If you are interested in a program that offers clinical work or leads to licensure, this degree is not for you.

If you are looking to gain the credentials for licensure to be a therapist or counselor, then this program is NOT for you. We are not a counseling program and, thus, are not structured or accredited to prepare students for licensure. If you are interested in being a licensed therapist or counselor, please see ASU’s Master in Counseling program.

Campus Immersion Program at a Glance

Location: West Valley Campus
Credit Hours: 30
Flexible Schedule: day and evening classes
Time to Completion: 18 months - 24 months
Admit Term: Fall
Application Deadlines

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Program Handbook POS PSY Checksheet Program Advising

Pursuing a graduate degree represents a pivotal juncture in your academic and professional path. We are committed to ensuring that you are well-informed and well-prepared for this significant journey. To facilitate your exploration and understanding of the program, we encourage you to delve into our advising website. Here, you can access vital information regarding program prerequisites, course offerings, and the expertise of our esteemed faculty.

We particularly recommend a thorough review of the curriculum check sheet and the program handbook. These documents offer an insightful glimpse into what you can expect during your academic journey, helping you gain a comprehensive understanding of the program's requirements and guidelines. Your time spent exploring these resources will be invaluable as you embark on this next chapter of your education.

Program Details

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Application Deadlines

Online Options

The Psychology (Positive Psychology), MS program is offered in-person or 100% online. This page is for the in-person program. To learn more about the 100% online option, applicants may view the program description and request more information by clicking the button below.

Online Program

Application Components

Completed applications must be electronically submitted to ASU and include the following:

Letter of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation help support your graduate school application by providing a third-party view of your ability to perform well in graduate school. It is preferred that the letters of recommendation are from faculty members who know the applicant's work well; if these are not available, then recommendations should be from individuals in supervisory or professional roles. Two letters of recommendation are required. However, three letters of recommendation are strongly recommended.

Statement of Purpose

This is your opportunity to introduce yourself, share your goals and explain why you decided to pursue this particular program. Please provide a statement no longer than three pages double-spaced describing your research experience and interest overlap with the identified ASU program faculty.

Required Courses

Applicants must provide evidence of successful completion of an undergraduate, or graduate, social science statistics and research methods course. Typically, these pre-requisite courses should be in a social science field; however, applicants may apply with courses outside of a social science field.

GPA Requirement

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in applicable master's degree program. Priority is given to applicants who have achieved a 3.25 GPA or higher.

GRE Scores (Optional)

Applicants to the Master of Science in psychology (positive psychology concentration) program are not required to submit a GRE score. Applicants who feel that their GPA and academic record are not reflective of their current ability are strongly recommended to provide a GRE score.

English Proficiency

International applicants should review details online to determine if a TOEFL or IELTS score must be submitted. Information can be found by visiting students.asu.edu/graduate/proficiency.

Review Process

Review of applications for admission are done on a rolling basis. Typically decisions are returned within 14 calendar days from the date the application is ‘in review’. The decision timeframe may increase during peak cycles.

Applicants can view the status of their application online via My ASU. The New College may reach out to request additional information or provide updates so it is important to check your email regularly.

After submitting your application please contact ncgradadmissions@asu.edu with any questions.

While you wait for a decision we recommend that you:

explore resources available to all ASU Graduate Students available here.
submit your FAFSA, for more information visit: https://tuition.asu.edu/financial-aid

Accelerated Options

New College offers a number of accelerated master's programs, providing top undergraduate students in select programs the flexibility to begin taking classes (up to twelve credit hours) toward their master’s degree during their senior year. By combining undergraduate and graduate coursework in your senior year for shared credit, you’ll save up to an entire year of schooling and receive both degrees in as little as five years.

*Accelerated Master's options are available to current ASU undergraduate students in select programs. To learn more approved programs and requirements, click here.

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