Skip to main content

Masters of Arts in Applied Psychology 

Learn the foundational knowledge and skills of psychology that can be applied across most helping professions.

Fill out this inquiry form for more information

SNU Masters of Arts in Counseling Psychology Student
Follow us on socials to connect and get up to date information on upcoming events and more!

"This program is more than what meets the eye. The professors are passionate about training the next generation of therapists. We are having fun while being molded into professionals with genuine knowledge, empathy, understanding, and insight.  I am not just learning, I am becoming!"

Emily P.

GPCP Student, Group #64

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Applied Psychology (MAAP) degree is a 30-hour program designed to offer foundational applied psychological coursework over three terms. The MAAP is not intended to meet the academic requirements for any licensure in Oklahoma or other states, but rather provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills that can be applied across most helping professions, including the psychological areas of assessment, diagnosis, research, cultural responsiveness, as well as understanding professionalism, legal and ethical concerns, and integration with values and beliefs. This graduate program offers students courses in research methods, orientation to the profession of counseling, and more!

Graduate Programs in Counseling and Psychology Student Handbook

Stat Icon
Graduate in as few as
16 months
Stat Icon
30
total credit hours
Stat Icon
$649
per credit hour

Upcoming Start Dates

 

Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Bethany

Request More Info

Fill out the form below and an enrollment counselor will reach out!

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH A MASTER OF ARTS IN APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY DEGREE?

Many individuals who earn their Master of Arts in Applied Psychology use the degree to strengthen their psychological knowledge in their current careers. We have had students who were pastors, business professionals, or human relations directors who desired more in-depth knowledge of the psychological processes that impacted their parishioners or employees. 

WHY SHOULD I GET A MASTER OF ARTS IN APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY DEGREE?

Individuals who wish to understand the primary psychological processes that make us human and how to develop basic helping skills will find this degree valuable. This program provides an in-depth look at the human person and how we develop biologically, socially, and culturally. In addition, students will learn about common diagnostic issues that occur in mental health settings and learn basic helping skills that can make them more effective listeners/helpers.

WHO HIRES MASTER OF ARTS IN APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY GRADUATES?

Most individuals who pursue this degree use it to further advance their already existing careers. This is a great degree for people in management positions, human relations, or any area that works primarily with other people. This program will provide basic psychological knowledge to help strengthen leadership skills and develop more person-centered leaders.

WHAT JOBS WILL A MASTER OF ARTS IN APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY PREPARE ME FOR?

Here are several jobs you can pursue with a Master of Arts in Applied Psychology:

  • Clinical Research Coordinator – Oversee psychological research studies and data analysis.
  • Behavioral Health Specialist – Work with individuals to modify behavioral patterns for better mental health outcomes.
  • Human Resources Manager – Apply psychological principles to improve employee relations, training, and organizational development.
  • Market Research Analyst – Use psychological insights to understand consumer behavior and improve marketing strategies.
  • School Counselor – Provide guidance and support for students' academic and emotional development.
These roles emphasize applying psychological theories in various settings to address real-world challenges​.
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SALARY OF THOSE WITH A MASTER OF ARTS IN APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY DEGREE?

Graduates with a Master of Arts in Applied Psychology typically earn between $50,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on factors like experience, location, and the specific industry they work in. 

WHAT MAKES SNU'S MASTER OF ARTS IN APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY PROGRAM UNIQUE?

SNU's program is different from many others in that the priority is on producing excellence, not just pushing people through degree programs. The instructors are committed professors who value higher education. In addition, professors practice psychology and thus are on the cutting edge of the latest research and best practices in the field. In a time and age in which convenience has become the priority, our program instead focuses on quality.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM A MASTER OF ARTS IN APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY?

The standards are high for students in this program. There is a great deal of out-of-classroom work related to reading and writing papers. While the degree track is short (i.e., 18 months), the program is rigorous and requires flexibility to complete successfully. The program meets one night a week from 6 to 10 p.m. The majority of our students work full-time jobs and find it manageable, but completing a master's degree requires a great deal of commitment to "master" the work.

HOW MUCH DOES THE MASTER OF ARTS IN APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY DEGREE COST?

This program costs approximately $19,470 ($649 per credit hour) + Books and $150 Application Fee

DOES SNU, OR THE MASTER OF ARTS IN APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY PROGRAM OFFER NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES OR JOB PLACEMENT?

Yes, we have a robust alumni program that often serves as a great place to find/advertise jobs. Our reputation in the field has been strong for over 30 years. Networking opportunities also exist online, and while job placement is not currently offered, there are multiple opportunities for in-person networking at SNU career fairs, the annual Women in Leadership Symposium, and SNU's monthly Business and Leadership Network.

WHY SHOULD I COMPLETE MY MASTER OF ARTS IN APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY DEGREE AT SNU?

If you love learning and want to better yourself, our program is a great program. We love to learn as a faculty and push ourselves to be the best we can be, and we expect the same of our students. We are relational by nature, meaning that we walk with our students the entire way and serve as a source of encouragement and direction throughout the process.

"The Counseling Psychology Program at Southern Nazarene University has not only solidified my love for this field but has also reignited my love for the classroom. The program’s curriculum emphasizes the importance of exploration within theory, self, and interpersonal relationships, creating a holistic educational experience. The faculty care deeply for each of their students and are committed to providing the tools for excellence. Thanks to this program, I know I will be gaining much more than a degree. I’m developing the confidence and competence needed to step into the field of counseling. I highly recommend this program to anyone passionate about helping others and eager to grow both personally and professionally."
Victoria M.
GPCP Student, Group #63

Courses

For an in depth understanding of learning outcomes, review the courses and descriptions below. 

PSY 5313 Lifespan Development

Lifespan Development covers theoretical and research approaches to the development of human abilities and behavior throughout the lifespan. The course addresses a variety of theoretical approaches, as well as different developmental tasks across the lifespan. In order to more fully understand the issues and dynamics of counseling, it is imperative to have a clear grasp of the processes involved in human development. Such understandings of development are important because many clients enter counseling with problems that are the result of disrupted or dysfunctional developmental processes. (3 credit hours)

PSY 5263 Psychopathology

This course provides an emphasis on describing, classifying, and differentiating deviant behavior syndromes according to the current, prevailing classification system in the United States (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). Literature dealing with description, etiology, and prognosis of various disorders will be examined. (3 Credit Hours)

PSY 6403 Neuropsychopharmacology

This course provides an overview of basic neurophysiology, as it is relevant to behavior, mood, and psychopathology. It also examines the neurochemistry of the major classifications of psychotropic medications as they relate to treating mental disorders, their effects and side effects, and relevant concerns for clients that take them. In addition, the course will acquaint students with neurophysiology connected to abuse and addiction of alcohol, prescription drugs, and illicit substance abuse, including the connection between the effects of brain changes and resulting problematic behaviors that are a focus of treatment. It offers students important implications for counseling and educating individuals and families presenting with psychopharmacological, addiction, and other substance-related concerns. (3 Credit Hours)

PSY 6113 Research Methods I

This course acquaints students with how to design, conduct, and analyze research for the purpose of assisting students to review and critique relevant research in counseling, as well as to integrate research into clinical practice. In addition, the course addresses research ethics and methodology. Topics may include basic research designs and basic statistical analyses, including experimental, quasi-experimental, survey, and archival research. (3 Credit Hours)

PSY 6443 Human Sexuality

This course provides students with the knowledge and requisite skills to address the wide range of topics and concerns surrounding human sexuality in the counseling relationship. Students will develop increased comfort and competency in engaging a diverse range of clients on topics of sexuality that include the expression of human sexuality and intimacy across the lifespan, attitudes and perspectives on sexuality, problems in sexual functioning, and therapeutic interventions. (3 Credit Hours)

PSY 5153 Survey of Psychological & Cognitive Assessment

This course provides an introduction and overview of the assessment process, beginning with the basics of test construction and measurement. Students will learn how to appropriately select, administer, and score neuropsychological and psychological tests in the areas of cognitive and personality assessment for children, adolescents, and adults. In addition, this course is aimed at helping students integrate psychological data obtained from clinical interviews and testing into a rich understanding of human functioning. (3 Credit Hours)

PSY 6293 Philosophy of Interpersonal Relationships

This course begins by making the case that all modern psychotherapeutic discourse is moral discourse and therefore contains presuppositions about the human good life. The course then examines the presuppositions of the Christian tradition regarding human nature, the good life, and the practices that shape human transformation. Students are then asked to examine their own conceptions of human nature and the good life and the relationship of these conceptions to their personal narratives, religions traditions, and cultural and historical contexts. (3 Credit Hours)

PSY 5333 Orientation to the Profession of Counseling

This course introduces students to the primary concepts related to the process of psychotherapy and the relational ideas that are central to the practice of counseling. Relationship building skills and techniques, including interviewing, reflective listening, and the development of insight and self-understanding are explored. Students are also introduced to the profession of counseling and will begin the process of discussing how to make sound clinical decisions and the role of the mental health clinician throughout the professional lifespan.  (3 Credit Hours)

PSY 5283 Legal & Ethical Issues in Counseling

This course is designed to provide a survey of ethical, legal, and professional issues facing counselors and others in human services. Emphasis is given to raising awareness of the complexities of ethical issues in professional clinical practice. Students will also develop an understanding of the importance of record keeping and proper clinical documentation, as well as learn about confidentiality and the differing professional roles faced by psychotherapists. (3 Credit Hours)

PSY 6593 Cultural Responsiveness & Diversity in Counseling

This course will focus on the diverse identity demographics with which counselors interact, especially related to race and culture, religion, gender, age, sexuality, disability, and socio-economic status, emphasizing the implications of these factors for counseling. Students will have the opportunity to examine counseling approaches with persons of varying identities by analyzing various barriers to cultural responsiveness and ways to incorporate cultural responsiveness in counseling. In addition, students will be asked to examine personal assumptions regarding internalized assumptions and biases about other persons and groups of varying demographics. Students will learn an intersectional approach to conceptualizing counseling cases and applying counseling techniques. (3 Credit Hours) 

Meet our SNU Faculty

Dr. Scott Secor, Ph.D

Program Director

Scott Secor, Ph.D. is a licensed health service psychologist, licensed professional counselor, and the program director for both the Master of Arts in Applied Psychology and Master of Science in Counseling Psychology programs.  Dr. Secor obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Oklahoma in Counseling Psychology and completed his predoctoral internship in Clinical Psychology at the VA Medical Center/OU Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma City.  

Read MoreDown Red Angle

Dr. Secor was previously the Director of Clinical Training for the SNU Graduate Programs in Counseling Psychology and has been an instructor in the program since 2012.  He currently teaches Neuropsychopharmacology, Theories and Techniques of Counseling I, Research Methods, Lifespan Development, Survey of Psychological and Cognitive Assessment, Practicum II, and Internship II.  He became the co-director of Renew Counseling Center in 2021 helping to build Renew into a large training clinic that currently consists of nearly 70 clinicians.  He oversees the financial picture for Renew and the overarching vision for the clinic as a part of his current duties.  

Clinically, Dr. Secor practices from an existential/psychodynamic perspective.  His specialty is psychological/neuropsychological assessment. He routinely conducts personality assessments, along with evaluating neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., ADHD and Autism) and neurodegenerative disorders.  Dr. Secor has been trained in the Rorschach Performance Assessment System and enjoys integrating the Rorschach into his clinical assessments.  His research focuses on psychological assessment, specifically how the Rorschach informs different diagnostic pictures.

Read LessUp Red Angle

Dr. Camryn Sanders Lopez

Director of Clinical Training

Camryn Lopez is the Director of Clinical Training and an Assistant Professor for both the Master of Arts in Applied Psychology and Master of Science in Counseling Psychology programs. Dr. Lopez is currently approved for postdoctoral training under Dr. Scott Secor and is set to complete the requirements to become a licensed health service psychologist in February of 2025. Dr. Lopez obtained her Psy.D. at Oklahoma City University in Clinical Psychology and completed her predoctoral internship at the University of Arkansas Counseling and Psychological Services.

Read MoreDown Red Angle

Dr. Lopez began as an instructor in the program in 2023. She currently teaches Theories and Techniques of Counseling II, Philosophy of Interpersonal Relationships, Legal and Ethical Issues, Psychopathology, Practicum I, and Internship I. Prior to her time at Southern Nazarene University, she taught as an adjunct professor at Oklahoma City University and the University of Central Oklahoma. 

Clinically, Dr. Lopez practices Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. She also conducts psychological and neurodevelopmental assessments with an emphasis on the assessment of autism in adults. Dr. Lopez oversees practicum and internship at Renew. She provides both individual and group supervision to both masters and doctoral level students. She also runs outreach for Renew where she assists with the promotion of mental health on the SNU campus and in the broader Bethany community. As she is a certified yoga instructor, her research focuses on yoga as an adjunct to traditional mental health treatments. 

Read LessUp Red Angle

Holly Sapp, MA, LPC

Executive Clinical Director

Holly Sapp, MA, LPC is a licensed professional counselor and board approved supervisor.  She is the executive clinical director for Renew Counseling Center at Southern Nazarene University.  Holly obtained her Master of Arts degree from Southern Nazarene University in 2011.

Read MoreDown Red Angle

Holly has worked in private practice, and was the director of the Health and Wellness Program in Deer Creek Public Schools from 2016-2021,  during which time she trained future counselors and implemented suicide prevention programs in the school.  She has been a contract therapist at Renew since its opening in 2012 and teaching the graduate course Counseling Children and Adolescents since 2019.  She became a co-director at Renew in 2021 and is currently the executive clinical director of Renew, where she leads supervision and clinical operations.

Holly enjoys working with clients of all walks of life, and has experience working with children and adolescents; adult individuals, college students in particular; and couples. She also enjoys supervision and has supervised over 70 interns and candidates for licensure in the last 8 years.

Read LessUp Red Angle
"The Graduate Program in Counseling Psychology at Southern Nazarene University has provided me with valuable opportunities for growth in the classroom, with professors who are not only knowledgeable and work in the field but genuinely care about their students. The cohort style of the program has created a community of learning and strong relational connections with my peers. Within my second year, the learning environment and relational connections have only deepened, emphasizing hands-on learning through the Renew campus clinic and various community opportunities. I have loved being a part of this program and the community it creates."
Sunny B.
GPCP Student, Group #63

Admission Steps 

The faculty and administration in the Graduate Programs in Counseling and Psychology take the process of training counselors very seriously. The application process is therefore very thorough and critical to both our admissions and educational process. We greatly value our application process that accepts only those whom we believe will make the best counselors. We do not require the GRE because we do not want to simply quantify potential applicants. Our desire is for our admissions process to allow us to get to know each applicant as a person in order to see if that person will be a good fit for our program, and that our program will be the right program for the applicant. Also, we firmly believe that our program is challenging, demands excellence from our students, and more than adequately prepares all of our students for the variety of situations faced as a counselor. We are looking for future students who can excel in the classroom, be flexible in thought, and have the ability to connect with and engage others from various backgrounds and circumstances. We accelerate our program because we want our students to get the best training possible, while also being able to start their career as soon as possible.

 You must meet the following requirements to apply to our program:

  • Hold a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university
  • Taken at least 18 hours of psychology related undergraduate coursework (General or Introduction to Psychology and Statistics are required)
  • GPA of 3.0 or higher is considered competitive

International Students: Please click here to find out more about the application requirements. http://snu.edu/international-admissions

If you need assistance with a learning, physical, or psychological disability that may affect your application process, we encourage you to contact the Academic Center for Excellence, Disability Services at (405) 717-6272 (M-F 8:00-5:00). All students with disabilities are encouraged to seek assistance from ACE (LRC 325).

Click here to view the complete admissions process.

Graduate Programs in Counseling and Psychology Student Handbook

Enrollment, Retention, Graduation, and Outcome Data

Locations

 

Bethany Campus

6729 NW 39th Expressway,
Bethany, Oklahoma 73008

Program Resources

What to Expect as an SNU PGS Student COVER IMAGE

E-Book

What to Expect as an SNU PGS Student

View Now >
Blog-1

BLOG

What Makes a Good Counselor

View Now >
SNU - Financial Aid Guide Cover-1

E- Book

The Complete Guide to Financial Aid

View Now >

Text With an Enrollment Counselor

Ready to make a difference in people’s lives? Text an enrollment counselor today to see how SNU’s grad counseling degree can get you one step closer to a rewarding career.

Request More Information

Have questions about SNU or need help determining which program is the right fit? Fill out the form and an enrollment counselor will follow-up to answer your questions!

Text With an Enrollment Counselor

Have questions, but want a faster response?  Fill out the form and one of our enrollment counselors will follow-up via text shortly!