Prepare Yourself with Research
With several concentrations and flexible class formats, Avila’s MS Psychology degree program has three tracks: research, mental health, and general. The degree programs require a set of core courses that cover the foundational components of psychology and statistical research design. Avila’s program is ideal for students wanting a better understanding of the psychology of human beings. This degree is customizable for those working in the fields of education, law enforcement, human resources, business, or the helping professions.
Avila University’s Master of Science in Psychology Program is committed to the education, training, and development of graduates who will understand the foundations of knowledge in psychological science, critically examine the content of that knowledge across subdomains of psychology, and apply the scientific methods of psychology to address basic and applied questions about human behavior from a biopsychosocial perspective.

Choose your Concentration
General Concentration
Providing a solid foundation of the diverse research, theory, and practices of psychology. The degree is designed for students interested in preparing for doctoral programs in psychology as well as for students interested in pursuing careers in non-clinical settings.Mental Health Concentration
With advanced coursework in Abnormal Psychology, Addictions, Multicultural Counseling and other topics, this concentration prepares graduates who are interested in pursuing professional, non-clinical opportunities in mental health should select this concentration.Research Concentration
Designed for students interested in pursuing advanced research opportunities or graduate study, this concentration requires a research thesis for graduation. Your coursework will include Research Design & Analysis, Research Experience and other advanced classes.Program Highlights
- Over 40 years of successful psychology alumni
- Set your own pace—no cohort requirements
- 16 week semesters—eight-week summer session
- Evening, on-campus classes
- Start coursework in the fall or spring terms. The Summer term is available for returning students
- Bachelors in Psychology not required (overview course needed)
When you unlock your potential with a graduate degree from Avila, you’ll be able to advance your goals at your own pace. Our evening and online classes are designed to fit the needs of working adults, and our financial aid, tuition reimbursement, and flexible payment options are available to those who qualify. Change your trajectory with a graduate degree from Avila.
Information Sessions
Ready to learn more about this program? Join us for an upcoming Information Session.
Interested in Psychology?
Program Cost and Aid
Students who apply to the Avila Master of Science in Psychology program are eligible to apply for scholarship opportunities.
Alumni Grant
Amount Awarded: One-time award of $300
Qualifications: An Avila Alumni
See graduate department for more details.
Sirridge Counseling Psychology Scholarship
This scholarship has been established in honor of Dr. Stephen T. Sirridge’s more than 30 years of service as Professor of Psychology at Avila University. The scholarship will be granted to a student showing promise of professional excellence.
Amount Awarded: This non-renewable award is in the amount of $500 and will be credited directly to the recipient’s account.
Qualifications: The applicant must be a “Student in Good Standing” in Avila University’s MSCP Program. The student must have completed the Candidacy process with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Criteria for Selection: Academic achievement as shown by GPA.
Quality of essay. The student will complete a two-three page, double-spaced essay. The theme of this essay is the following: “Discuss several challenges facing practitioners in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders.”
Graduate assistantships may also be offered.
![]()
“As someone striving for an eventual doctorate in Experimental Psychology, it was important to me to be able to focus on the research aspects of Psychology. I absolutely do not regret my choice.”
Braeden Hall

Contact
Avila University Department of Psychology, Foyle Hall
11901 Wornall Road / Kansas City, MO 64145 / 816-942-3661
Nancy White, Office Manager for School of Psychology & Cognitive Science
P: 816-501-3661 / E: Nancy.White@avila.edu