The Master of Science (MS) in Psychology provides graduate-level training in psychological theories and research methods. All students who enter the Psychology PhD program without a master’s degree are required to complete the MS in Psychology en route to the PhD.
Note: Until summer 2026, the MS in Psychology also included three terminal MS degree tracks: (1) the Thesis Track as part of the 4+1 MS Program (for Tulane Alumni only), (2) the Non-Thesis (Course-Based) Track as part of the 4+1 MS Program (Tulane and Xavier Alumni only), and (3) the Accelerated (1.5-Year) Non-Thesis (Course-Based) Track for External Applicants. Beginning in Fall 2026, the terminal MS degree tracks will be housed under the MS in Psychological Science program.
The MS requires a minimum of 30 credit hours and a cumulative grade point average of 3.000. Program requirements can be found in the table below.
The M.S. in Psychology (Thesis en route to the PhD) requires a minimum of 30 credit hours and a cumulative grade point average of 3.000.
At least 3 credits in core courses (eligible courses: PSYC 7000-7090)
3
Up to 21 credits from elective courses (can include PSYC 9990)
18-21
Empirical Master's thesis, inclusive of:
Prospectus meeting
Successful Master's thesis defense
Total Credit Hours
30
Other Requirements:
All courses counting towards the 30 credits must have a B- or higher grade. Grades below a B- do not count towards the degree.
The minimum grade point average calculated over the 30 credits counted toward the degree must be equal or greater than 3.000.
Application for degree to the School of Science & Engineering.
Submission of thesis to the School of Science & Engineering.
Recommended Plan of Study
This is an example of plan of study for the M.S. in Psychology encompassing all requirements for the program. Students are responsible for reviewing university, school, and program requirements, along with prerequisites and the sequencing of courses in coordination with their program advisor.
