Critical Psychology & Human Services MA
Why this program?
At Prescott College, we do psychology a little differently. We believe in a value-laden approach to the psychological sciences guided by compassion, wisdom, justice, and a responsibility to support the flourishing of all beings. Critical psychology understands that human well-being is deeply interconnected with the worlds in which we live. Because of this, the MA in Critical Psychology and Human Services program intentionally takes a more “in the world” approach to supporting wellbeing through its attention to societal and structural factors and its integration of human services work.
What can you do with this degree?
This program appeals to those looking to work in nonprofits, social service agencies, advocacy groups, educational institutions, etc. who are not seeking clinical/counseling licensure, and to those planning to pursue future doctoral work.
Students completing this degree and 350 postgraduate hours of work in human services are eligible to seek certification as a Human Services-Board Certified Practitioner (HS-BCP). Learn more
What will this program look like?
Critical Psychology & Human Services is one of the only programs of its kind. We examine critical theory, psychology, and social justice, as well as the historical, political, economic, and cultural underpinnings of mainstream psychology and its role in issues such as power, privilege, and oppression. We also examine the impacts that systemic pressures place on the individual and entire society alike. We learn to apply this critically-informed perspective when providing support in non-clinical settings.
Key courses include:
Critical Theoretical and Historical Foundations of Psychology
Concepts in Critical Psychology
Foundations of Human Services
Community Psychology
Liberation Psychology
Psychology of Culture and Diversity
Peace Psychology
Theories of Change
Critical Foundations of Research and Scholarship
Capstone
We are proud of our partnership with the National Organization for Human Services (NOHS). All Critical Psychology and Human Services students receive a one year student membership in NOHS when they enroll in the program.
Admissions Information
Number of Credits
36
Cost Per Credit:
$637
Start Dates
August 22, 2023
Completed Fall 2023 Application Deadline
August 9, 2023
Application Checklist
- Completed Application
- PERSONAL STATEMENT
- Current resume
- Official transcripts
- List of References
Key Program Information
- This 36-credit program provides theoretical knowledge and professional skills for students who wish to pursue work in human services (nonprofits, social service agencies, educational entities, psycho-educational consulting, advocacy work, etc.) and who do not seek a program for state-regulated therapy licensure. Additionally, electives allow students to gain further knowledge and skills in areas of interest to support future goals.
- Students will develop a critical understanding of the field of psychology, including its historical and current relationships with power, privilege, oppression, and liberation.
- Students will understand the impacts of systemic, structural, and macro-level factors—including societal, economic, political, and environmental—on individual, community, and societal well-being.
- Students will apply critically informed psychological knowledge and professional skills to support human well-being at multiple levels in non-clinical settings.
- The Critical Psychology & Human Services Program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. The Higher Learning Commission has approved Prescott College to offer all of its degree titles via distance education.
Click to view program requirements and academic program information in the Course Catalog.
Careers & Opportunities
Career Pathways
Our graduates go on to fulfilling careers of leadership in their communities and beyond, where they can lead the way to lasting change. Some careers include:
- Non-Profit Program Director
- Program Development Associate/Director
- Instructor/Lecturer in Psychology/Human Services
- Human/Social/Family Services Worker/Director
- Case Manager
- Grant Writer
- Non-Profit/Public Policy/Organizational Consultant
- Advocacy Coordinator
- Public Administrator
- Community Development Manager
- Community Outreach Specialist
- Crisis Intervention Counselor
- Volunteer/Outreach Coordinator
- Trauma/Disaster Relief Worker/Director
- Researcher/Data Analyst
Career Planning
Our Career Services team works with you to map out a plan that works for your goals and your life. There are many ways to get where you’re going, and we’ve seen it all!
Are you interested in being part of our community?
One thing we all have in common is our passion – passion for helping others, passion for the environment, passion for social justice and a passion for a different kind of learning experience.