COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Psychological Research at California State University, Sacramento requires completion of 31 to 33 units and is designed to provide a balanced combination of core knowledge, specialized coursework, and hands-on research experience. Students begin with foundational courses in empirical research methods and contemporary statistical techniques, which establish essential skills for conducting and analyzing psychological research. To ensure breadth of knowledge, students must complete one seminar focused on individual or social aspects of psychology, such as personality, social behavior, development, or cultural influences, along with one seminar in biological or cognitive psychology, covering areas like neuroscience, cognition, or learning processes. In addition to these requirements, students select three advanced courses from a wide range of topics, allowing them to tailor the program to their academic interests and career goals. A significant component of the program is the research requirement, where students complete two research-oriented courses that involve independent or collaborative work under faculty supervision, helping them build practical research skills. The program culminates in a final experience, typically involving a thesis or similar project, where students apply their knowledge to conduct original research. Overall, the program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing graduates for advanced professional roles or further doctoral study in psychology by developing strong analytical, methodological, and research competencies.