Become a Psychologist

The master of education (M.Ed.) in Clinical Psychological Assessment is designed to train students in the evidence-based practice of clinical psychological assessment with children and adolescents. The two year (48 hour) graduate program in Clinical Psychological Assessment prepares students to become highly qualified clinicians in the administration and interpretation of assessment of cognitive function, behavior, personality, and psychopathology. Graduates may seek employment in:

• Schools
• Community mental health centers
• Hospitals
• Other health agencies.

This training will include a foundation in core areas of psychological science, knowledge and etiology of psychopathology, professional ethics, and course work and practicum training in psychological assessment. Students will obtain hands-on experience as part of their practicum training, working alongside licensed psychologists who are administering assessments professionally in Nashville as well as the surrounding areas. In addition, a final comprehensive exam will be required instead of a thesis following the completion of all coursework and the practicum.

The curriculum and practicum are designed to meet certification requirements for the State of Tennessee’s Certified Psychological Assistant (CPA), the current master's level psychology certification. Certified Psychological Assistants in the state of Tennessee can practice under the supervision of a licensed clinical psychologist. There are currently 25 states which license master-level psychologists, either independently or under continuing supervision. The skills training does not prepare students to practice psychotherapy or counseling at the master’s level. However, some students may wish to pursue further practice-oriented doctoral training after completion of the program.