Top Accredited Masters in Psychology Programs in Nebraska
Ready to advance your mental health career with a Masters in Psychology degree from Nebraska? The state hosts more than 25 accredited psychology schools, giving you plenty of options regardless of your location.
Nebraska’s twelve postgraduate programs spread across four universities offer excellent opportunities for aspiring psychology professionals. You can specialize in school psychology, industrial/organizational psychology, developmental psychology, or applied behavioral analysis. Psychology professionals in Nebraska earn a median wage of $56,000 annually, and the field continues to grow with promising career opportunities.
Research stands at the heart of Nebraska’s psychology graduate programs, where students actively participate in shared research projects. These programs currently serve about 100 full-time graduate students. The University of Nebraska’s degree offerings include M.A., M.S., Ed.S., and Ph.D. programs that align with your career aspirations.
Let’s take a closer look at five accredited Masters in Psychology programs in Nebraska that can boost your career in this fulfilling field.
1. University of Nebraska at Omaha – MS in School Psychology
The University of Nebraska at Omaha runs one of the most respected MS in School Psychology programs. The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) has given it full accreditation. This complete program helps you become a vital member of school teams who support students’ learning and teachers’ teaching abilities. The program’s results speak for themselves. In the last 20+ years, UNO has matched 100% of students with internships. Every student has found employment after their internship year.
Program overview
UNO’s MS in School Psychology program uses a scientist-practitioner model that focuses on problem-solving service delivery. Students graduate with excellent academic knowledge and skills in school psychology. They stay involved and committed to the community throughout their studies.
Graduates learn to work as scientist-practitioners who serve children, their families, schools, and communities. The program focuses on indirect service delivery methods like consultation, assessment, prevention, and early intervention. Students also learn to provide direct psychological services when needed.
Students complete a 4-year training program that readies them to become Nationally Certified School Psychologists (NCSP). This certification opens doors to jobs across the country. Graduates can work in Nebraska and many other states including Iowa, California, Georgia, Tennessee, Alaska, Colorado, Utah.
Social justice is a unique feature of the program. The department sees it as “both a process and a goal that requires action”. UNO-trained school psychologists protect educational rights, opportunities, and well-being of all children. They focus on those whose voices remain unheard, identities hidden, or needs overlooked.
Key features
The program’s curriculum builds expertise through these core courses:
- Professional foundations of school psychology
- Multiple assessment courses (foundations, school age, and early childhood)
- Psychology of exceptional children
- Behavior analysis and intervention
- School psychology advocacy and action
- Psychotherapeutic interventions
- Research design and consultation
- Practicum and internship experiences
Students get hands-on experience through partnerships with local schools and the Academic Clinic at the Munroe-Meyer Institute at UNMC. This practical experience makes the program special. Students choose UNO because it balances research and practice perfectly. They get extensive practicum experience and personalized attention from faculty.
The program has ten student learning outcomes that match NASP standards:
- Data-based decision making and accountability
- Consultation and collaboration
- Interventions and instructional support for academic skills
- Mental health services to develop social and life skills
- School-wide practices to promote learning
- Preventive and responsive services
- Home/school/community collaboration
- Diversity in development and learning
- Research and program evaluation
- Legal, ethical, and professional practice
On top of that, Professional Work Characteristics serve as the eleventh outcome. Students learn to build good relationships with students, teachers, staff members, parents, and site supervisors. They show their skills through a Comprehensive Portfolio that evaluates their progress toward program goals.
Admission requirements
The program accepts applications until December 15 for fall entry. You’ll need these items for your competitive application:
- Transcripts: Send two official transcripts from each college to UNO’s Office of Graduate Studies
- Academic Background: You need 15 undergraduate semester hours or equivalent psychology courses. These must include simple statistics and an upper-level laboratory course. You should have independent or group research experience that emphasizes experimental methods, data collection, statistical analysis, and report writing
- GRE Status: The School Psychology Program makes GRE scores optional. They review all applications with or without GRE scores
- Statement of Purpose: Write about why you want to study at UNO, your career plans, and anything else that shows your readiness for graduate study
- Additional Documents: Include a writing sample (APA style preferred), CV/résumé, and three recommendation letters
- English Language Proficiency: Students without a U.S. baccalaureate or advanced degree must meet language requirements. Scores needed: Internet-based TOEFL: 80, IELTS: 6.5, PTE: 53, Duolingo: 110
Apply online by creating an account. Your application stays open until you complete it or the deadline passes. Recommendation letters can arrive after you submit your application, but before the program deadline.
Choose “Psychology-MS in School Psychology” when you apply online. The system sends recommendation forms to your references by email. Let them know to watch for UNO’s email.
UNO’s School Psychology program is well-known among Nebraska’s Masters in Psychology Programs. Its NASP accreditation, thorough curriculum, practical experience, and graduate employment success make it exceptional.
2. University of Nebraska at Kearney – MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The University of Nebraska at Kearney offers a strong MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program that creates professional counselors for mental health settings of all types. The program unique from other Masters in Psychology Programs in Nebraska with its flexible design and well-laid-out curriculum. Students get both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
Program overview
UNK’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program prepares graduates to deliver culturally sensitive services in settings of all types. Students learn to help clients deal with emotions, adapt to life challenges, build better relationships, diagnose mental disorders, and develop coping strategies.
The program uses a field-based scientist/practitioner model to create culturally competent professionals. These professionals know how to understand, assess, and use research effectively in their practice. This approach helps practitioners blend scientific knowledge with practical skills.
The program’s excellence shows in its accreditations. It has earned recognition from the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs (CACREP) since April 1, 2000. The International Registry of Counselor Education Programs (IRCEP), CACREP’s international affiliate, has also accredited the program since February 11, 2011. These credentials will give you the preparation needed for the National Counselor Exam (NCE), National Clinical Mental Health Counselor Exam (CMHCE), and state licensures.
The program aims to produce knowledgeable and skilled counselors who can work with clients of all backgrounds, with special focus on rural mental health. You’ll build a strong counselor identity through ethical practice and deeper self-awareness, ready for the field’s growing needs.
Key features
The program’s career outlook makes it particularly attractive. Clinical Mental Health Counselors’ employment will grow 23% from 2016 to 2026, much faster than other jobs. Nebraska’s Clinical Mental Health Counselors earned an average of $56,070 yearly as of May 2017. A graduate degree can boost your earnings by 16% compared to bachelor’s degree holders, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The 60-credit hour curriculum has:
- Core counseling courses on research methods, human development, ethics, and techniques
- Specialized clinical mental health counseling courses
- Practical training through practicum and internship experiences
- Elective options for specialized interests
The program’s flexibility makes it stand out. Working professionals can easily access the blended format that combines evening/campus courses with online options. You can keep your job while getting advanced education.
The program offers a unique chance for dual licensure. Students can take elective courses for Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counseling (LADC), leading to both Licensed Mental Health Practitioner (LMHP) and LADC credentials. These additional qualifications can open up more career paths.
Students learn more than simple counseling skills. Graduates understand the mental health counseling movement, ethical duties, cultural diversity in counseling, and various treatment approaches for mental and emotional disorders. They also master psychopathological assessment models, psychotropic medications, case management procedures, and client rights advocacy.
Admission requirements
UNK’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program has a selective admission process. A bachelor’s degree is required. Full-time students should get full admission one semester before starting.
The application needs:
A completed UNK Graduate online application with:
- A $45 non-refundable application fee
- Official transcripts from previous schools
- A resume with requested information
- A personal essay (300-500 words) about your motivation to become a clinical mental health counselor
- Three electronic professional references
Students with a GPA below UNK’s Graduate Studies minimum of 2.75 must submit a Low GPA Statement. This statement should explain past academic performance, plans for graduate success (minimum 3.0 GPA), and reasons for admission as an exception.
The Office of Graduate Studies reviews applications first. Applications meeting graduate study requirements move to the Department.
Each semester includes a CSP Department admission interview/intake process. The department emails confirmation once applications are complete.
Students need several things for candidacy approval to continue coursework: a B or higher in CSP 855, a 3.0 minimum cumulative GPA, proven professional fitness and competencies, and ethical conduct.
The program requires Abnormal Psychology as a prerequisite, fulfilled through coursework or experience. Graduates can apply for the Mental Health Practitioner License from Nebraska’s Department of Health and Human Services and national certifications.
3. University of Nebraska at Omaha – MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology
UNO’s Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology is a popular choice among graduate psychology options. The program has earned a prestigious STEM designation and focuses on applying psychological principles to workplace settings. Students learn to handle the human side of organizations through scientific research and practical applications.
Program overview
The MS in Industrial/Organizational (I/O) Psychology at University of Nebraska at Omaha runs as a terminal, two-year program with 36 credit hours. Many Masters in Psychology Programs in Nebraska focus on clinical practice. This program takes a different approach by training students with the scientist-practitioner model that the Society for Industrial Organizational Psychology (SIOP) promotes.
The program’s professional focus makes it unique. Students who want immediate employment in applied settings after graduation choose the MS degree. Instead of writing a thesis, MS students spend 150 hours on an applied project in an organization and create a technical report. This ground approach readies graduates to work in human resource departments, training and organizational development units, or consulting firms.
Most students follow a full-time model. Some choose part-time study with two courses per semester instead of three, finishing in three years. Each cohort has about 4-6 MS students, which creates an excellent student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1.
The program offers competitive tuition rates compared to similar specialized programs—USD 6,138 per year for in-state students and USD 14,760 for out-of-state students. Graduates often see quick returns on this investment because their applied skills make them attractive to corporate employers.
Key features
Faculty members bring exceptional knowledge and experience from research and applied settings. Their broad expertise helps students master every aspect of I/O psychology applications.
The program’s cross-disciplinary connections are a major advantage. Faculty work closely with the College of Business and the College of Information Science & Technology. They have built partnerships with businesses and organizations in Omaha and beyond. These connections help students find internships and jobs after graduation.
Students learn both analytical tools and specialized I/O content. The program builds proficiency in these methodological areas:
- Statistical methods (regression, ANOVA)
- Psychometric theory
- Research design and methods
The core I/O psychology domains include:
- Job analysis
- Personnel selection
- Performance appraisal
- Leadership theories
- Motivation and morale
- Training and development
Ground experience is the heart of the MS program. Students must complete a practicum/internship that lets them apply classroom concepts in real settings. This experience is a great way to get an edge in the job market.
The program excels at mentorship. Graduate students learn from faculty and senior students. This multilevel approach creates a supportive environment where students develop theoretical knowledge and practical skills together.
Professional development extends beyond coursework. Students join local and national professional societies that match their career goals. This integration starts during graduate school and continues throughout their careers.
Admission requirements
The MS in I/O Psychology program accepts applications until January 10 for fall admission. This early deadline reflects how competitive the program is.
Academic prerequisites include:
- A bachelor’s degree from a U.S. accredited institution or equivalent from a recognized international institution
- Minimum of 15 undergraduate semester hours in psychology courses
- Simple statistics coursework
- Research experience through psychology lab courses, independent study, or research assistant roles
GPA requirements follow university standards:
- 5 overall GPA on a 4.0 scale for a bachelor’s degree, OR
- 75 overall GPA on the last 60 hours of undergraduate coursework, OR
- 0 GPA on at least nine hours of graduate coursework
The industrial/organizational program makes GRE scores optional. This lets the department review candidates’ overall qualifications instead of focusing on test scores.
International students have extra requirements. Students without degrees from the U.S. or predetermined countries on the waiver list must show English language proficiency through minimum scores: Internet-based TOEFL (80), IELTS (6.5), PTE (53), or Duolingo (110).
Applications must include:
- Statement of purpose outlining your goals for graduate study
- Writing sample
- Resume/CV
- Three letters of recommendation
Your statement of purpose carries significant weight. It should explain why you want to pursue graduate study, your specialization interests, career plans, and evidence of your preparation and aptitude.
Top MS students can apply to switch to the MA/PhD track if they want to pursue research or academia. This switch needs a separate application and approval.
Students with I/O psychology master’s degrees from other schools can ask UNO to review their transfer credits. Course requirements might transfer, so keep your syllabi and reading lists handy.
4. University of Nebraska at Omaha – MS in Applied Behavior Analysis
The joint MS in Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) and Munroe Meyer Institute (MMI) is significant among the detailed Masters in Psychology Programs in Nebraska. This program offers a unique path for students interested in behavior analysis and therapeutic interventions.
Program overview
UNO’s Psychology Department and UNMC’s Munroe-Meyer Institute have joined forces to create a program that develops behavioral health practitioners with advanced expertise in behavioral therapy for children and adolescents. Students graduate with excellent clinical and research skills in behavior analysis.
The program equips students to deliver person-centered, culturally responsive, and shared services that promote behavioral health outcomes. These services help people of all ages, including those with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Graduates can take the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) examination administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board.
Students need 51-54 credit hours to complete the program, which typically takes two years of full-time study. Most coursework happens online. Notwithstanding that, many online courses include a weekly Zoom video meeting that follows a traditional semester schedule. Students get flexibility while maintaining valuable real-time connections with instructors and peers.
BCBA certification requires completion of the program’s Association for Behavior Analysis International Verified Course Sequence and the Behavior Analyst Certification Board fieldwork experience (1500-2000 hours). This approach ensures graduates have both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.
Key features
The program shines through its supervised fieldwork opportunities. Students complete 750 to 1500 hours of supervised practicum. They can choose from three practice tracks:
- Intensive Clinical Services – Including severe behavior intervention, early intervention, pediatric feeding, and autism care for toddlers
- Clinical Outpatient Behavioral Health – Covering integrated behavioral health in primary care, behavioral health outpatient clinics, community agencies, and home-based services
- School-based Services – Focusing on ABA for students with high-intensity needs, school-based mental health, and behavior consultation
BCBA-certified clinicians supervise all practicum experiences. Students spend 15-25 hours each week at their practicum placements.
The program’s success speaks through its numbers. First-time BCBA exam pass rates have topped 90% since 2010. This is a big deal as it means that the program prepares students better than most others nationwide.
The coursework covers most requirements for mental health practitioner licensure in Nebraska. Students can pursue Provisional Licensure as a Mental Health Practitioner (PLMHP) with 2-3 additional courses from UNO or nearby universities. This dual credential path opens more career doors.
Graduates work in clinical mental health settings, behavioral health community agencies, hospital clinics, and schools. The degree’s versatility creates opportunities in many areas of behavioral health.
Admission requirements
Applications for fall admission close on January 10th. The program looks for:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. institution or equivalent international degree. Students need 15 undergraduate semester hours of psychology courses, including simple statistics and an upper-level laboratory course that focuses on experimental methods, data collection, statistical analysis, and report writing.
Application package must include:
- Official transcripts from each college attended
- Statement of purpose outlining your graduate study goals
- Senior-authored writing sample showing scholarly ability
- Detailed resume
- Three letters of recommendation
International applicants must prove English proficiency unless they have degrees from the United States or countries on the waiver list. Minimum scores needed: Internet-based TOEFL (80), IELTS (6.5), PTE (53), or Duolingo (110).
Start preparing application materials early before the January deadline. You might need to complete some prerequisite courses if they’re missing from your undergraduate work.
Working students should limit their employment to 20 hours weekly during semesters to handle the program’s demands. The university offers teaching assistantships, graduate assistantships, and scholarships to help with financial support.
5. University of Nebraska at Omaha – MS in Behavioral Psychology
The University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Department of Psychology offers a versatile MS in Behavioral Psychology program. Students learn to connect theoretical knowledge with practical mental health applications. This terminal master’s degree is perfect for professionals who want specialized psychology training without doctoral studies.
Program overview
The MS in Behavioral Psychology helps students specialize in mental health, preparing them for clinical and research positions. Students interested in additional education can pursue a Ph.D. in Applied Psychology with specializations in Applied Biopsychology and Applied Developmental Psychology.
Students can start their journey in fall or spring semesters, making educational planning more flexible. The department creates an intimate learning environment by accepting only 5-10 new students each fall semester. This selective approach gives students individual attention from faculty and promotes a collaborative cohort experience.
Students learn foundational psychological principles with emphasis on behavioral approaches to understand and treat psychological conditions. The program develops proficiency in research methodology and clinical applications, creating skills useful in many professional settings.
Key features
The program stands out with its integration into other departmental offerings. The department has diverse concentration areas including Applied Behavior Analysis, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, and School Psychology. This structure creates opportunities for learning across disciplines.
Students apply psychological principles to ground scenarios. Supervised practicum experiences provide hands-on training with diverse populations under faculty guidance.
Research plays a central role in the program. Students work with faculty members to develop and implement research projects that address modern psychological challenges. This approach strengthens critical thinking skills and prepares graduates to use evidence-based practices.
Career pathways for graduates typically include:
- Mental health counselors in community settings
- Behavior specialists in educational institutions
- Research assistants in academic or private organizations
- Program coordinators in social service agencies
Admission requirements
Application deadlines vary by semester. Fall admission applications are due by May 1st, while spring semester applications must be submitted by October 15th. Students who want scholarship consideration should apply by March 1st for fall semester.
Prerequisite academic preparation includes:
- Minimum of 18 credit hours in psychology or related field (equivalent to 6 undergraduate classes)
- Required coursework in introductory psychology, statistics, and experimental design and methods
- Remaining 9 hours may be psychology electives, preferably including upper-level courses
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required currently, but students can submit scores to strengthen their application. Basic application materials include:
- Curriculum vitae (CV) showing relevant experience and education
- 1-2 page statement letter describing research interests and goals
- Official transcripts with minimum 3.0 GPA
- English language proficiency documentation (for international applicants) – Internet-based TOEFL: 80, IELTS: 6.5, PTE: 53, or Duolingo: 110
Qualified applicants may receive graduate assistantships that provide tuition assistance and stipends. These positions usually involve teaching or research work under faculty supervision.
Get Started
Your career in Nebraska’s growing mental health field starts with picking the right Masters in Psychology program. Five exceptional graduate programs offer many paths to professional success. Nebraska’s vast geography might seem like a limitation at first glance, but the state gives you plenty of high-quality options with great outcomes for psychology graduates.
These programs each bring something special to the table. The University of Nebraska at Omaha excels with specialized tracks in School Psychology, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, and Behavioral Psychology. The University of Nebraska at Kearney shines with its Clinical Mental Health Counseling program that prepares students for therapeutic careers.
Psychology professionals in Nebraska have bright prospects ahead. The current median wage sits at $56,000, and job opportunities continue to grow as we just need more qualified mental health practitioners. On top of that, many programs boast excellent job placement rates. UNO’s School Psychology program has a perfect record in internship and job placement.
Most programs let you balance your studies with work through a mix of in-person and online classes. Nebraska makes a smart choice for your graduate education with this flexibility and reasonable tuition rates compared to other programs across the country.
These programs give you real-world experience through practicums, internships, and research projects. You’ll be ready to make an impact right after graduation thanks to this hands-on training.
Note that each program has its own admission requirements and deadlines. While they share basic prerequisites, application schedules and materials differ quite a bit.
All five accredited programs will give you the specialized knowledge, practical skills, and professional credentials you need in today’s complex psychology field. Now comes the real question: which program matches your career goals and professional dreams best?