Master of Science in Psychodynamics
The Master of Science in Psychodynamics is an advanced study of the unconscious processes, cognitive dynamics, and psychological forces that shape human experience. This program integrates classical psychodynamic theories with contemporary approaches in cognitive science, neuroscience, and personality psychology, offering students a deep understanding of the mind and human behavior.
Students will explore the intersections of psychodynamic theory, trauma studies, cognitive processes, and personality development while engaging in research-driven and experiential learning. This program is designed for those seeking to apply psychodynamic principles in advanced research, counseling, or innovative fields such as neuropsychology and cognitive psychodynamics.
About the Program
The Master of Science in Psychodynamics provides a comprehensive exploration of psychological development, unconscious processes, and the dynamics of personality and behavior. Students will engage in the study of psychodynamic frameworks while integrating cognitive psychology, trauma studies, and contemporary models of the mind.
The program combines theoretical foundations with applied psychodynamic analysis, emphasizing the study of defense mechanisms, unconscious motivation, and emotional regulation. Students will have the opportunity to engage in research focused on trauma, personality dynamics, and cognitive models of the unconscious mind.
Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for roles in psychodynamic research, personality studies, and neuropsychological applications of psychodynamic theory. The capstone research project allows students to apply psychodynamic concepts to real-world psychological phenomena, contributing to new insights in the field.
Key Areas of Study
- Unconscious Processes and Cognitive Dynamics
- Personality Theory and Psychological Development
- Trauma, Memory, and Emotional Processing
- Applied Psychodynamic Analysis and Defense Mechanisms
- Cognitive Psychodynamics and Neuropsychology
Who Should Enroll?
This program is ideal for psychologists, counselors, researchers, and professionals interested in deepening their understanding of unconscious processes, personality dynamics, and trauma studies. Whether pursuing careers in research, clinical practice, or academic study, this program equips graduates with the expertise to analyze and apply psychodynamic frameworks in both traditional and innovative contexts.
Core Curriculum & Program Structure
Program Courses: 57 credits
Degree Requirements
Total Credits Required: 57 credits
Core Major Courses: 33 credits
Research & Thesis: 18 credits
Electives: 6 credits
Year One – Foundations of Psychodynamics
Fall Semester 1
PSY 501 – Foundations of Psychodynamic Theory (3 credits)
Introduction to key concepts of psychodynamic theory, including unconscious processes, defense mechanisms, and personality structures.
PSY 502 – Personality Development and Cognitive Dynamics (3 credits)
Study of personality development through the lens of psychodynamic and cognitive theories.
PSY 503 – Trauma, Memory, and Psychological Healing (3 credits)
Exploration of trauma’s impact on memory, emotional regulation, and psychodynamic healing approaches.
Spring Semester 2
PSY 504 – Cognitive Psychodynamics and Emotional Processing (3 credits)
Integration of cognitive science with psychodynamic theory to understand emotional processing and regulation.
PSY 505 – Research Methods in Psychodynamic Studies (3 credits)
Training in qualitative and quantitative research methods for psychodynamic and personality studies.
PSY 506 – Applied Psychodynamic Analysis (3 credits)
Practical application of psychodynamic concepts to case studies and real-world psychological phenomena.
Year Two – Specialized Research & Capstone
Fall Semester 3
PSY 601 – Advanced Topics in Psychodynamic Theory (3 credits)
Examination of contemporary developments in psychodynamic theory, including relational models and neuropsychological integration.
PSY 602 – Personality Dynamics and Cognitive Models (3 credits)
Study of personality organization and cognitive models in psychodynamic frameworks.
PSY 603 – Independent Research in Psychodynamics (3 credits)
Guided research on a specialized psychodynamic topic, culminating in a research paper or project proposal.
Spring Semester 4
PSY 699 – Capstone Thesis in Psychodynamics (6 credits)
A comprehensive research project where students apply psychodynamic theory to a practical or theoretical issue, producing a thesis that contributes to the field.