Idaho is a large state whose need for professionals holding psychology graduate degrees is on the rise, especially in rural areas and the workplace. Candidates for graduate degrees will learn the diagnostic skills and therapeutic approaches required for working with people who exhibit mental health concerns. Idaho has seven regions throughout the state that focus on providing mental health care that is “community-based and consumer-guided.” The state’s psychology graduate programs reflect that in their curricula.
Boise State University
College of Education, Department of Kinesiology
Since 1932, Boise State University has grown into its identity as an educational institution with a strong emphasis on research and graduate programs. The university’s College of Education houses several programs with ties to the field of psychology, including kinesiology. Graduates in this field are able to work in many settings with those in need of behavioral treatments to enhance their mental health. BSU is accredited through the Idaho State Board of Education at the local level and by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities at the national level. The College of Education is further accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counselor Education and Related Programs.
Master of Kinesiology (MK)
A degree in kinesiology may seem an odd choice for those interested in a psychology program. However, kinesiology, as the study of movement, bears an important connection to an individual’s optimal behavioral health. BSU’s Master of Kinesiology (MK) degree offers several specialization areas including one focusing on Behavioral Studies. With this degree, graduates bring their knowledge and experience of how physical activities stimulate mental processes to therapeutic programs designed to improve the client’s mental health outlook. Students with an MK degree work in many settings with mentally or behaviorally challenged individuals, including rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, schools, or public and private mental health institutions.
The program of study for an Master of Kinesiology degree with an emphasis in Behavioral Studies follows the following two year sequence of 38 credit hours:
- 9 hours from Behavioral Studies, Biophysical Studies and Socio-historical Studies courses.
- 6 hours in research, professional writing and statistics classes.
- 2 hours of a graduate seminar, required for all graduate students in kinesiology programs.
- 18 hours of approved electives in the emphasis area of Behavior Sciences.
- 3 hours for a capstone course focusing on Behavioral Studies (replaces a thesis).
Contacts
Boise State University
Department of Kinsiology
1404 Bronco Circle
Boise, Idaho 83725
General Program Number: (208) 426-4270
Shelley Lucas, Graduate Program Coordinator
Bronco Gymnasium, Room 101, Mail Stop 1710
(208) 426-2446
smlucas@boisestate.edu
Program Overview
Curriculum Overview
University of Idaho
Department of Psychology and Communication Studies
The University of Idaho’s educational philosophy centers around providing programs that inspire students to become successful leaders in their chosen field. Consistently recognized by the Princeton Review as one of the best colleges in the country, UI strives to continually improve on its tradition of academic excellence for all through its 130 undergraduate and 126 graduate programs. The University of Idaho holds accreditations from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, the Idaho State Board of Education
M.S. in Psychology with an Emphasis on Human Factors
IU’s graduate program in psychology with an emphasis on human factors, also called ergonomics, focuses on the relationship of people to their environment and how they can more effectively cope with related stresses. The program is interdisciplinary with coursework coming from the Psychology and Communication Studies department as well as the College of Engineering. Graduates with an M.S. in this field usually find employment in government facilities, military settings or major corporations. Coursework covers 30 credit hours over a two year period and includes study of: cognitive psychology, sensation and perception, ergonomics, bio-mechanics, human-computer interactions, and engineering psychology. Students must also complete a research based thesis or take a comprehensive non-thesis exam.
Contacts
Dr. Todd Thorsteinson
University of Idaho
Department of Psychology & Communication Studies
Student Health Center 206
875 Perimeter Drive, MS 3043
Moscow, Idaho 83844
(208) 885-4944
tthorste@uidaho.edu
Program Overview
These programs are examples of Idaho’s innovative psychology education for the state’s next generation of mental health providers . The effects of our bodies and the workplace upon mental health are reflected in the attitudes and actions of people in all walks of life. By offering graduate psychology degrees that address these needs, the quality of life for all citizens of Idaho will improve.
For more information on Online Psychology Degree, The Top 15 Best Affordable Online Master’s in Psychology and Masters in Counseling Degree Programs.
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