Master of Science in Psychology and Disability Services (MPsy-DS)
Faulkner University’s Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers a Master's in Psychology and Disability Services, a Master’s in General Psychology, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Disability Services. This program is designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in mental health, disability services, social services, advocacy, education, and more, focusing on both psychological principles and the unique challenges individuals with disabilities face.
The M.S. in Psychology and Disability Services is a one-year, fully online program that combines the study of human behavior with a focused exploration of disability services. Students will deepen their understanding of psychological theories and research principles while also gaining insight into the unique challenges and support systems for individuals with disabilities. The curriculum emphasizes disability perspectives, legal frameworks, and the role of technology in enhancing accessibility and care. Students will also engage in critical thinking and ethical decision-making, integrating a Christian worldview that calls for compassion and service to “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40). This flexible program equips students with the knowledge and skills to address the complex needs of the disability community in a variety of professional settings, fostering both academic growth and a heart for advocacy and care. All courses are taught by experienced faculty committed to practical, Christ-centered learning.
Also Available:
Admissions Information
Regular Admissions Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree with a minimum of a 2.75 cumulative GPA (3.0 GPA in the last 60 hours of the bachelor’s degree, the student’s major courses, or on an accredited graduate degree are also acceptable)
- Meet Faulkner University’s general admissions requirements for graduate programs
- Approval of admission by the director and/or chair of Department of Social and Behavioral Science
- Completion of the required pre-requisites with a grade of “C” or higher (students may complete these online with Faulkner University prior to beginning the graduate courses)
- One (1) course in: General Psychology [Faulkner equivalent: PY1310]
- One (1) course in: Human Development (any human development across the lifespan [Faulkner equivalent: PY2301]
- One (1) course in: Research Methods (any related discipline)* [Faulkner equivalent: PY3350]
- One (1) course in: Statistics (any discipline, or math statistics)* [Faulkner equivalent: PY3330]
*A combined course in Research and Analysis covering applicable content may be accepted.
Conditional Admissions Requirements:
Students not meeting the regular admissions requirements may submit any or all of the following additional items for consideration. The University conditional admission policy detailed in the graduate catalog will apply.
- Letters of recommendations from professional or academic sources
- Submission of standardized admissions exams (e.g. GRE, MAT, LSAT, etc.)
- Resume demonstrating relevant professional experience
- Other evidence indicating academic preparedness
All applicants must submit:
- A complete graduate application [LINK TO THIS]
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- A short personal essay in APA format addressing the following:
- Why do you want to pursue this degree? How will it fit with your personal or
career goals?
- How is a degree from a Christian university such as Faulkner a good fit for you
(consider Faulkner’s mission statement [LINK-OPEN N.TAB] in your answer)?
- How have you navigated challenges that have come in your life, academics,
career, etc. What do you anticipate may be the most difficult adjustment you will
need to make as you pursue this degree?
- What is one thing about yourself you wish everybody knew, but you are often
reluctant to share?
Tuition and Fees
Tuition Information for Graduate Psychology and Disability Services Program
| Program | M.S. General Psychology | M.S. Psychology and Disability Services | Certificate in Disability Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition (per hour) | $570 (x30 hours) | $570 (x30 hours) | $570 (x15 hours) |
| Online Fee (per hour) | $75 (x30 hours) | $75 (x30 hours) | $75 (x15 hours) |
| General Fee (per semester) | $350 ($250 if less than 6 hours) | $350 ($250 if less than 6 hours) | $350 ($250 if less than 6 hours) |
| Textbook fee | $195* | $195* | $195* |
| ESTIMATED TOTAL** | $20,595 | $20,595 | $10,470 |
*Additional textbooks may be required for some courses
**Plus applicable University graduation fee
Curriculum
The degree is designed to be completed in one year by completing all prescribed courses, one course at a time. Courses are offered in 5 week formats, and new students can begin at the start of any 5 week period throughout the year.
The curriculum consists of the following 10 courses totaling 30 credits to complete the degree:
Fall Semesters:
Fall 1- PSY 5310: Foundations of Psychological Science
Fall 2- PSY 6320: Principles of Psychometric Evaluation and Assessment
Fall 3- PSY 5315: Spiritual Perspectives of Human Development and Behavior
Spring Semesters:
Spring 1- PSY 6371: Neurodiversity and Concepts of Disabilities
Spring 2- PSY 6373: Legal and Sociocultural Aspects of Disability Services
Spring 3- PSY 6372: Assistive Technologies in Disability Services
Spring 4- PSY 6377: Autism, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Summer Semesters:
Fall 1- PSY 6374: Disability Services Administration and Application
Fall 2- PSY 6310: Principles of Psychopathology
Fall 3- PSY 5350: Applied Research Methods and Analysis
Technology Requirements
Students must have access to the following technology resources in order to successfully complete the program:
- Mac computer or PC that is less than five years old with storage and unrestricted access
- High-speed internet and a supported Internet browser
- Windows 10 or higher
- Webcam (720p minimum; 1080hd recommended)
- Microsoft Word
- Additional policies and requirements outlined in our Online Student Handbook Supplement.
Graduation Requirements
A student who has completed all required coursework must meet the following conditions before a degree or certificate will be awarded:
- Minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0
- No grade below C in any courses
- No more than two C grades in the program of study
- Pay applicable graduation fees
- No holds on any financial accounts
Please note: Students may retake a course up to two times to earn a passing grade.
How to Apply
To apply for the Master of Science in Psychology and Disability Services degree, submit a completed online application with all required supplemental materials. Additionally, you will need to fill out an Official Transcript Request form and submit it to any schools you previously attended with the appropriate fee. All transcripts should be mailed to:
Faulkner University Attn: Graduate Enrollment 5345 Atlanta Hwy Montgomery, AL 36109
All applicants must submit:
- A complete graduate application
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- A short personal essay in APA format addressing the following:
- Why do you want to pursue this degree? How will it fit with your personal or career goals?
- How is a degree from a Christian university such as Faulkner a good fit for you
- (consider Faulkner’s mission statement Our Mission: Your Success in your answer)?
- How have you navigated challenges that have come in your life, academics, career, etc. What do you anticipate may be the most difficult adjustment you will need to make as you pursue this degree?
- What is one thing about yourself you wish everybody knew, but you are often reluctant to share?
Potential Career Paths for Psychology Graduates
Students who complete the online master's degree in Psychology and Disability Services at Faulkner University have the technical and analytical skills to work in a variety of fields, such as:
- Education
- Public health
- Consulting
- Human resources
- Social services
- Marketing
- Medical research
- Graduates can also use their master’s degree as a springboard to a doctoral program or other forms of advanced study.
Note: The Master of Science in Psychology program does not fulfill the requirements for any state licensure in Alabama. Students who wish to work in other states are encouraged to research licensure and certification requirements.
Pursue an Advanced Degree in Psychology
At Faulkner University, students can take the next step in their liberal arts education through a Christian lens. In addition to General Psychology, the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers a Master in Psychology and Disability Services, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Disability Services. To find out more about our psychology degree programs, request information or apply online today.
Apply to Our Master of Science in Psychology and Disability Services Program
Furthering your knowledge and skills in psychology and disability services will be rewarding for you, your family, and your contributions to society. Apply Today.