Indiana offers many options for psychology graduate programs designed to meet various academic and professional aspirations. Whether your interests lie in clinical practice, research, or community engagement, Indiana’s graduate programs in psychology offer pathways to advance your career.
Institutions like Indiana State University provide rigorous research opportunities and in-depth training across multiple subfields of psychology. Ball State University’s Teachers College emphasizes applied learning and houses specialized departments such as Educational Psychology and Special Education. Purdue University offers graduate studies through its Department of Psychology.
This guide highlights some of the popular psychology graduate programs in Indiana. Explore each option to make an informed decision about your educational path.
Best Psychology Graduate Programs in Indiana
Listed below are some of the popular schools offering psychology graduate programs in Indiana:
- Purdue University Global
- Ball State University
- Indiana State University
- Butler University
- University of Indianapolis
- Indiana Wesleyan University
- Pepperdine University
- The Chicago School
- Southern New Hampshire University
To find out how we select colleges and universities, please click here.
Purdue University Global
Master of Science – Industrial Organizational Psychology
You may consider earning your psychology degree by enrolling in the online Master of Science program offered by Purdue Global. This program is delivered entirely online. You will follow an accelerated path, with most students finishing their degree in about one year.
Through this graduate program, you will choose a concentration in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, which prepares you to apply psychological knowledge in workplace settings. You will study theories, methods, strategies, and practices within I/O psychology, and you will examine topics such as workplace behavior, leadership, employee management, and performance assessment.
You will also complete courses in general psychology that are important for applying psychological knowledge across various fields. One of these courses is Foundations of Professional Psychology, where you will study the skills and knowledge required to become an effective psychologist. In Ethics and Standards for Professional Psychology, you will build on that knowledge and develop a strong understanding of professional conduct and ethical responsibility.
Several required courses will teach you about research practices. These include:
- Advanced Research Methods
- Applied Statistics for Psychology
- Testing, Measurement, and Assessment
In these courses, you will learn how to gather psychological data, analyze it, and use the results to improve both organizational performance and employee capabilities.
You will also take Life Span Development, where you will study the stages of life and key developmental milestones. You will be introduced to models that explain human growth, including those that focus on cultural and situational factors.
The second part of the program involves five concentration courses designed to strengthen your knowledge in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and help you build practical skills for workplace settings.
One of these courses is Industrial/Organizational Theory and Development, where you will receive an introduction to I/O psychology and its major practices. You will explore the history of the field and examine topics like ethical issues, social and cultural influences, and how organizations behave.
Another required course is Organizational Management and Behavior. Here, you will analyze how organizations operate, how they handle changes, how they approach conflict resolution, and how they build clear and effective communication systems.
You will also take three additional courses in your concentration:
- Workplace Motivation and Attitudes
- Organizational Leadership–Management, Training, and Evaluation
- Human Resources Management
If you choose, you can complete a practicum in I/O psychology. This is a five-credit course where you will work in a real organizational setting. During this field placement, you will apply classroom knowledge and receive guidance from professionals already working in the field.
As part of your training, you will also choose between completing a thesis or a capstone. Both involve research, but the thesis focuses more on theoretical study and is more research-centered. The capstone allows you to apply your skills in a project that includes writing a research proposal, conducting a literature review, presenting an original hypothesis, and designing a method to test it.
To apply for admission to Purdue Global’s graduate program, you must complete the online application. You must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Submit official transcripts confirming your degree.
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Complete and submit an Enrollment Agreement.
- Complete the Identity and Document verification by submitting an official government-issued photo ID.
- Set up your financial plan for paying for the program.
- If English is not your first language, provide proof of English proficiency.
Ball State University
Master of Arts in Educational Psychology
If you are working in education or in a related area such as human development, you may find Ball State University’s Master of Arts in Educational Psychology to be a suitable option for your academic and professional goals. This program is built with the needs of professionals like you in mind and offers both flexibility and a strong focus on research.
You will complete 30 credit hours, and you have the option to finish the program entirely online. If you take a full course load during regular terms and summer sessions, you may be able to complete your degree in less than one year. Otherwise, you could finish in approximately 18 months. Through the core courses, you will build knowledge in important topics including learning theory, statistical methods, research practices, and the use of tests and assessments.
As part of your studies, you will take the following core classes:
- Advanced Educational Psychology
- Psychology of Human Development
- Human Learning and Achievement Motivation
- Methodology of Educational and Psychological Research
- Tests and Measurements
By studying educational psychology, you will learn how people grow and learn, especially in college and university environments. Your work will not involve clinical practice like school counseling. Instead, you will guide educators and organizational leaders in areas such as learning theory, student evaluation, developmental psychology, and research techniques.
This degree can help you move forward in your current profession or prepare for a new career path. The skills you gain can be applied in several areas, including:
- Assessing student performance
- Designing and improving online learning
- Creating educational content
- Supporting students’ emotional well-being
- Encouraging independent learning
- Studying how learning happens
- Understanding human growth and behavior
If you are also considering a doctoral degree in education or a similar subject but have not yet chosen your specific area of focus, beginning with this master’s program may help you find your direction. The coursework gives you a useful starting point for many academic fields.
You will also have the opportunity to tailor your degree to your goals. You may choose 12 elective credits based on your interests. You can also select from approved focus areas, such as gifted and talented education, applied behavior analysis, human development, and institutional research.
Since this program is delivered online, you will be able to study without having to attend classes in person. This allows you to complete assignments at times that fit your routine—whether that is after work, on weekends, or during other responsibilities.
Typically, you will take two classes per semester. If you feel prepared to take on a heavier course load, you are allowed to do so. You could complete the program in just one year if you move quickly, or you may take up to three years if you prefer to take one class at a time.
The admission requirements are:
- A completed application.
- A GPA of 3.0.
- A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- Transcripts from all institutions you have attended.
- Two recommendation letters.
- A personal statement.
Indiana State University
Clinical Psychology PsyD
If you are considering doctoral training in clinical psychology, you may choose the Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) Program at Indiana State University, located on the Terre Haute campus. This is a traditional, in-person program available to both domestic and international applicants. Admission is highly competitive.
For over 38 years, this PsyD program has maintained a reputation for quality. Over the last five years, 98% of students participating in the internship match process have secured placement. The program has held continuous accreditation from the American Psychological Association (APA) since 1985.
Through this program, you will prepare to provide psychological services in treatment, assessment, consultation, and leadership roles. The curriculum is guided by a training model that emphasizes professional practice supported by scientific research.
During your training, you will be encouraged to develop a professional identity based on clinical excellence, active inquiry, commitment to new knowledge, social responsibility, and appreciation for the influence of cultural and individual differences. You will also be expected to maintain a strong focus on your personal and professional development throughout your time in the program.
In your first year, you will begin clinical coursework and training. You will also be encouraged to participate in faculty research projects early, so that you are well prepared to develop your dissertation. Because the program requires a dissertation, research training is emphasized more than in some other PsyD programs.
The primary goal of this program is to prepare you to deliver clinical services effectively. Your training will involve individualized supervision, hands-on clinical experiences, and research education focused on clinical practice.
You will be trained to understand fundamental areas of psychology, including biological, cognitive, social, emotional, and developmental influences on behavior. You will also learn how to assess and diagnose both functional and dysfunctional behavior and how to design and evaluate evidence-based interventions. You will be prepared to work with individuals across different age groups.
To meet program requirements, you must complete 100 total credit hours, which include:
- 27 credits in general psychology
- 30 credits in clinical and professional topics
- 43 additional credits that include:
- Clinical practicum (11 credits)
- External practicum (4 credits)
- Electives (15 credits)
- Dissertation (12 credits)
- Internship (1 credit)
After completing your second year, you will be awarded a master’s degree as part of your overall 100-credit requirement. To earn the master’s degree, you must show proficiency in clinical and research areas.
The program typically requires five years of full-time study. You will spend the first four years on coursework and practicum experiences, followed by a one-year internship, usually completed in the fifth year.
You will complete clinical training through three main components: a practicum at the university’s Psychology Clinic, off-campus practicum placements during your third and fourth years, and a full-time internship in your final year. You must also pass oral preliminary exams and defend your dissertation.
From the start of your training, you will gain experience in the Psychology Clinic, which serves clients from Terre Haute and nearby areas. In your first year, you will observe therapy sessions led by advanced students and attend weekly group supervision. During your second and third years, you will carry a caseload of three to four clients and provide therapy and assessments. In your fourth year, you will supervise second-year students.
The program will teach you to apply evidence-based decision-making methods. These include balancing client needs and preferences with scientific findings and your own professional judgment. You will build core skills in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and will be introduced to other methods through work with various supervisors.
The program strongly emphasizes education on diversity and inclusion. You will be trained to value the importance of culture, identity, and individual differences in all parts of your professional work. You will also be part of an academic community that promotes acceptance and respects the contributions of people from different backgrounds, including race, gender, age, religion, ability, and personal history.
Each year, the program enrolls approximately 6 to 8 new students, with around 30 to 35 students active on campus across all four years. An additional 6 to 8 students typically complete internships off campus. Most students begin the program with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. A few students are admitted each year with a master’s degree or previous graduate-level coursework.
Most students receive financial support. Fellowships may cover tuition and fees (excluding some service-related fees) for up to 18 credits per academic year. Many students are also awarded assistantships during their first two years.
To be eligible to apply, you must meet these minimum criteria:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (or recognized institution for international applicants)
- Have completed at least 24 credits in psychology, including coursework in Abnormal Psychology, Research Methods or Experimental Psychology, and Statistics. Courses in Learning or Cognition and Personality are also recommended
- Hold a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or a 3.5 GPA in graduate psychology coursework (if you have completed more than nine graduate credits)
You must submit three letters of reference. Ideally, these letters should come from professors in psychology or mental health professionals who understand your academic, professional, and interpersonal qualifications. Letters from individuals who are familiar with doctoral-level psychology training are strongly preferred.
Applications for the fall cohort are accepted between September 1 and December 1. All materials must be submitted by the deadline. Late applications will not be reviewed.
Admission interviews are conducted by invitation only. Around 40% of applicants are invited to attend an initial virtual interview in late January. Those with strong potential for admission may then be asked to attend a second, in-person interview on campus. If you cannot attend during the scheduled dates, efforts may be made to accommodate your schedule. However, all travel expenses are your responsibility.
Admission and financial aid decisions are typically finalized by early March. If you are accepted, you must confirm your decision by April 15.
Butler University
Online Master of Science in School Counseling
If you are planning to become a licensed school counselor, you may consider enrolling in the Master of Science in School Counseling program at Butler University. This program is delivered online and includes 60 credit hours of coursework and hands-on training, specifically designed to prepare you for school counselor licensure in the state of Indiana.
You will follow a cohort-based format, which means you will complete your studies with the same group of peers throughout the program. This structure encourages strong connections with fellow students and instructors, helping to create a supportive learning environment and allowing you to expand your professional contacts.
This online program offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust your pace if needed. Should unexpected circumstances arise, you will be permitted to pause your studies without losing any completed credits. You may take up to seven years to finish the degree, although most students complete it in three years. If you move quickly, you may be able to complete the program in as few as six semesters.
The curriculum follows national educational standards and places strong emphasis on inclusion, cultural awareness, and practices supported by research. All online classes are led by experienced school counselors who are nationally recognized for their contributions to the field. These instructors are committed to guiding you throughout your academic path.
Throughout your studies, you will examine topics such as counseling ethics and legal responsibilities, human development, and career counseling. You will also learn about current challenges such as using data to improve practice, supporting mental health in children, understanding the effects of trauma, and promoting diversity in schools.
After completing the program, you will be able to:
- Use data to guide your counseling methods
- Follow ethical standards and apply culturally respectful practices in school settings
- Offer counseling in academic, college/career, and social-emotional areas
- Understand and apply leadership, advocacy, and systems-focused strategies to support positive change in schools
To graduate with your Master of Science in School Counseling, you will need to complete 100 practicum hours and 600 internship hours at a site that is convenient for you.
To apply for this program, you must meet the following requirements:
- Submit a completed application
- Hold a minimum GPA of 3.0
- Have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Provide transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended
- Submit two letters of recommendation
- Write a personal statement
- Participate in an interview as part of the admissions process
University of Indianapolis
Master of Science in Psychology
If you are interested in advancing your career in psychology, the Master of Science (MS) in Psychology program at the University of Indianapolis can help guide your next steps. You may use this degree to apply for non-clinical psychology-related jobs at the master’s level or to continue your studies in a doctoral program in health, social, or industrial and organizational psychology. You will work closely with experienced faculty members, many of whom also practice clinically, giving you access to valuable practical and research training.
This program is designed to strengthen your background in psychology and help make you a stronger candidate when applying to doctoral programs. At the same time, it prepares you for roles in areas where advanced psychology knowledge is valuable but where clinical licensure is not required.
You will choose one of three tracks within the MS in Psychology program: General Psychology, Program Development and Evaluation, or Research.
- General Psychology: In the General Psychology track, you will focus on preparing for doctoral study by completing core psychology courses and studying psychotherapy, ethics, and personality theory. You will also be able to take elective classes in specialized subjects such as health psychology or forensic psychology. This track will prepare you for PhD or PsyD programs.
- Program Development and Evaluation: If you choose the Program Development and Evaluation track, you will take core psychology classes along with training in program design and project management. You will also learn how to collect, analyze, and interpret data related to policies, programs, and organizational outcomes. This track will help you qualify for positions in social service agencies, nonprofit organizations, government roles, and the private sector.
- Research: In the Research track, you will receive more in-depth training in research methods. You will be matched with a faculty mentor and complete a thesis as part of your degree. You will also participate in a research practicum that allows you to assist with projects led by other faculty members. The research conducted by faculty includes areas such as social, cognitive, developmental, health, and clinical psychology. This track is designed to help you become a strong applicant for PhD programs.
To complete the MS in Psychology program, you must earn at least 39 credit hours. If you study full-time, you can complete your degree in two years (four semesters). If you study part-time, you must finish all program requirements within five years from the time you are admitted. Classes are offered in several formats, including daytime, evening, and online. All students begin the program in the fall and may enroll on a full-time or part-time basis.
Regardless of the track, you will take a set of core classes that will introduce you to major areas in psychological science. These include:
- Professional Development
- Statistics and Research Methods
- Applied Statistical Analyses
- Neuropsychology and Biological Bases of Behavior
- Cognitive Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Lifespan Psychology
- Advanced Psychopathology
You must also complete 18 credit hours specific to your chosen track. Each track includes 1 or 2 elective courses. You are encouraged to choose electives that support your academic and career goals.
New students are admitted in the fall semester each year. To apply to the MS in Psychology program, you must:
- Complete the online application form
- Pay a nonrefundable $55 application fee during submission
- Submit official transcripts from every college or university you have attended
- Hold a bachelor’s degree, with a preferred GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
- Provide three recommendation letters
When you apply, you will list three references in the online system. Each of them will receive a request to complete a form with brief questions and ratings, and to upload a recommendation letter. It is preferred that your letters come from professors who know you through multiple courses, research experience, or other academic and volunteer work. However, letters from professionals who can comment on your potential for graduate study will also be accepted.
You must also submit a personal statement. In your statement, you should introduce yourself and explain your reasons for applying to this program. You should describe how your interest in psychology developed, what you hope to learn through graduate study, and your experiences in academics, research, or other settings. You should also describe your strengths and areas where you hope to improve. While there is no set length, it is recommended that your statement be one to two double-spaced pages.
GRE scores are not required but are recommended. If you submit scores, it is preferred that each section (verbal, quantitative, and analytical writing) falls at or above the 50th percentile. If you are applying to the Research track, submitting GRE scores is strongly encouraged.
Finally, you must upload a current resume or curriculum vitae (CV) as part of your application.
Can You Become a Psychologist With a Master’s in Indiana?
No, in Indiana, you cannot become a licensed psychologist with only a master’s degree. To practice as a licensed psychologist in Indiana, you must have a doctoral degree and meet specific professional requirements set by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency.
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