Master of Applied Psychology (MAP)
Master of Applied Psychology (MAP) Program Description
The Master of Applied Psychology (MAP) program provides a strong foundation in the scientific and applied study of human behavior. Grounded in evidence-based psychological science, the curriculum integrates research, assessment, and intervention with experiential learning to prepare students for careers in behavioral health, research, human services and/or advanced doctoral study.
The program emphasizes critical thinking, ethical practice, cultural humility, and social justice, which equips graduates to address complex psychological and behavioral challenges across diverse populations and settings.
Through a rigorous and applied curriculum, students will:
- Build a comprehensive understanding of psychological science across the lifespan.
- Develop advanced research skills, including quantitative and qualitative methods, statistical analysis, and research design.
- Gain knowledge of psychological assessment, diagnosis, and evidence-based intervention strategies.
- Strengthen clinical reasoning, case conceptualization, and professional decision-making skills.
- Apply ethical principles and culturally responsive practices when working with individuals, families, and communities.
Program Mission
The MAP program is committed to preparing ethical, culturally responsive professionals who integrate psychological science with applied practice. Graduates develop the knowledge, research competencies, and professional skills needed to improve individual and community well-being through evidence-based practice and lifelong learning.
Applied Learning
The MAP program bridges classroom learning with real-world experience through supervised practicum and applied learning opportunities. Students integrate scientific knowledge with professional practice. They develop competencies in intervention, consultation, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Areas of Study
Students may pursue one of three program pathways:
- Addictions Counseling (ACT)
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC)
- General Psychology
In addition, elective coursework allows students to explore specialized interests such as:
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
- Behavioral Health Interventions
- Sports Performance Psychology
Prepare for a Career in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The MAP-Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MAP-CMHC) track prepares students for meaningful careers in the mental health profession. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, applied learning experiences, and training in counseling theory and practice, students develop the skills needed to assess, support, and counsel individuals, families, and communities across a variety of clinical and community-based settings.
The curriculum is designed to provide the academic preparation required to pursue Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) status in New Jersey and prepare students to sit for the National Counselor Examination (NCE). Graduates are also positioned to pursue the additional supervised experience and requirements needed for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for a wide range of professional and academic pathways, including entry-level positions in:
- Behavioral and mental health agencies
- Addiction treatment programs
- Community mental health organizations
- Healthcare systems
- Human services organizations
- Research settings
- Government and nonprofit agencies
Doctoral Preparation
The MAP program also provides strong preparation for doctoral study in clinical, counseling, applied, and related areas of psychology through rigorous training in psychological science, research methodology, and applied practice.
Camden MA/New Brunswick MAP Pathway
Students begin by earning the Rutgers–Camden Master of Arts in Psychological Sciences (M.A.), a rigorous 30-credit graduate program that provides a strong foundation in psychological research, theory, and evidence-based practice. They then continue to the Rutgers–New Brunswick GSAPP Master of Applied Psychology (MAP) program, completing an additional 30 graduate credits focused on applied training and professional development.
Together, this 60-credit cross-campus pathway offers Rutgers–Camden students a seamless route to advanced education, combining strong research preparation with hands-on applied learning. Graduates gain the knowledge, skills, and credentials needed to pursue careers in behavioral health, counseling, human services, and research, while also strengthening their preparation for doctoral study and other advanced professional opportunities.
Opportunities for Clinical and Professional Growth
Designed to prepare the next generation of practitioners, the MAP program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and professional experience needed to thrive in applied psychology. Students engage in experiential learning and supervised training that foster career readiness, confidence, and professional growth.
Students will:
- Participate in practicum experiences that connect classroom learning with applied clinical, healthcare, educational, organizational, and community settings.
- Integrate scientific knowledge with supervised practice in intervention, consultation, and professional decision-making.
- Develop foundational counseling skills to promote resilience, well-being, and positive behavioral change while working with diverse individuals and communities.
- Strengthen clinical reasoning, case conceptualization, ethical decision-making for effective practice in applied psychology.
- Build professional competencies in communication, collaboration, and culturally responsive practice that prepare them for a wide range of careers and advanced graduate study.
Apply
The Application Deadline for Fall Semester 2027 Admission (NB) is April 30, 2027.
For additional information, please visit our FAQs.
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Important Note: Completion of an additional 18 credits of MAP coursework prepares students to sit for the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and supports eligibility for licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). In New Jersey, LPC requirements include a minimum of 60 graduate credits in a master’s or doctoral program, three years of supervised full-time professional experience, and a passing score on the NCE administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors.