On Feb. 21, the Washburn University psychology department hosted an open house for students interested in master’s programs in psychology.

The open house allowed students to gain knowledge about the graduate program and career opportunities. The open house was via Zoom with Michael McGuire, professor of psychology, and Julie Boydston, assistant professor of psychology. 

“The American Psychology Association is really looking closely at this at Ph.D. versus master’s level and the fact that we have a crisis in mental health right now and really taking a look at how we can really get more clinicians out there at the master’s level,” Boydston said.

Boydston specializes in child psychology and McGuire specializes in learning and cognition. They informed the audience that their program criteria is set up for having a clinical psychology master’s degree and getting licensed to work in Kansas. 

Initially, Boydston reviewed the advantage of Washburn providing licensure at the master’s level. She further addressed the crisis of mental health and the need for master’s-level clinicians. 

“The career outlook for a master’s-level psychologist is really good,” Boydston said.

McGuire discussed the expectations upon completion. He also covered how to evaluate and interpret psychological assessments. In addition to understanding therapy techniques, he emphasized the importance of considering individual client characteristics and contextual factors that may influence therapy were also highlighted.

 Next, McGuire discussed the potential funding and teaching assistantships. Students have the opportunity to get funding to help faculty conduct research if eligible for work-study. 

“All first-year students will have multiple opportunities for funding,” McGuire said.

There are plenty of ways to get hands-on experience in your career through internships and mentorship from Washburn’s faculty. Boydston highlighted the internship opportunity for higher-level positions to work with kids and families. 

“We work with Topeka Rescue Mission, Family Service,” Boydston said. 

The psychology department wants to invite scholars worldwide to express their desire to learn and indulge in the curriculum offered and supported by Washburn University. 

Edited by Jayme Thompson and Jeremy Ford