What's the difference between a master's in psychology and a master's in clinical psychology?

Master's in psychology degrees come in many varieties, including a general master's in psychology and a master's in clinical psychology. Learn about the differences between these degrees, including program curriculums, cost, and outcomes.

Psychology degree vs. clinical psychology degree

When considering a master's in general psychology vs. clinical psychology, it is important to understand the differences between the two degrees. A general master's in psychology degree allows students to study the theoretical aspects of psychology in depth, while a master's in clinical psychology emphasizes practical application.

Some psychologists focus more on theory and research while others focus more on the practical treatment of psychological disorders. Determine whether you want to work as a practicing therapist or in research to help you decide which degree is the best fit for you.

During a master's in psychology, students complete research-focused coursework, covering topics such as developmental psychology, environmental psychology, social psychology, and other subfields.

A master's in clinical psychology, on the other hand, focuses on clinical experience. Students completing a degree in clinical psychology can expect extensive hands-on training, which can include community practice and clinical research.

Cost

The National Center for Education Statistics reports that the average cost of graduate tuition at public institutions in 2020-2021 was $12,394, while private nonprofit institutions charged an average tuition of $28,445 over the same period.

Graduate degrees typically require at least two years of full-time study to complete, putting the average cost for a graduate program somewhere between $24,800 and $56,890, depending on the institution type.

While a general master's in psychology can require as few as 36 credits, a master's in clinical psychology often requires 60 credits or more, resulting in higher tuition costs.

Curriculum

A master's degree program in general psychology can involve one of several concentrations, such as industrial and organizational psychology, geropsychology, or forensic psychology.

Typically, a general psychology degree emphasizes theory and research and takes about two years of full-time study to earn. Coursework includes topics like lifespan development and cognitive psychology.

A master's program in clinical psychology typically includes coursework relevant to clinical practice such as child development, family systems, and professional ethics. Additionally, many programs offer coursework tailored to help students attain professional counseling licensure. Such courses include human growth and development, multicultural counseling, and group counseling.

A master's program in clinical psychology also requires students to complete a practicum or internship, which can fulfill some or all professional licensure requirements, depending on their state.

Program outcomes

While a master's in clinical psychology often takes more time and can cost more than a general master's in psychology, it can often provide a more direct path to a professional career.

Graduates with a degree in clinical psychology typically enter practice. Depending on the program and state, graduates may already meet some or all of the requirements necessary to work as a licensed professional counselor (LPC) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT).

With a general master's in psychology, graduates typically go on to pursue doctoral work. Doctoral studies can take an additional four or more years to complete and include a focus on theory and research. With a Ph.D., graduates can go on to practice as psychologists or teach psychology at the university level.

Salary and career outlook

Graduates of a master's in clinical psychology program typically work as therapists and counselors. Jobs in these roles are projected to grow much faster than average between 2023 and 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Per the Bureau, counselors, social workers, and other community and social service specialists made a median annual wage of $51,970 in 2023. Additionally, the BLS reports an annual median wage of $58,510 for marriage and family therapists for the same year.

Graduates with a general master's in psychology usually need to complete doctoral work, qualifying them to work as psychologists or university professors. The BLS reports that psychologists earned a median annual wage of $92,740 in 2023. Postsecondary teachers made $84,380 during the same period.

Psychology vs clinical psychology: which master's program is right for me?

When deciding between a master's in psychology vs. clinical psychology program, consider your particular interests and strengths.

Individuals interested in theory and research may gravitate more toward a master's in general psychology with the intention of completing further doctoral work. With a Ph.D., graduates can go on to contribute original research to the field of psychology, practice as psychologists, and teach at the university level.

A master's in clinical psychology may be the right fit for those eager to enter clinical practice sooner. Graduates often pursue licensure and practice as counselors and therapists.