Find a master's program that teaches psychopharmacology
Are you considering a master's degree in psychology? Did you know it can be beneficial to learn about mental health medications even if you can't prescribe them? Continue reading to learn more about master's programs that teach psychopharmacology.
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Why earn an online master's in psychology that teaches psychopharmacology?
Build assessment and diagnostic skills
Learn how medication influences thoughts and behaviors and when to refer patients for medication management.
Collaborate with healthcare providers
Understanding pharmacology can allow you to better collaborate with other healthcare professionals.
Study the use of medication in psychology
Help educate people on the proper use of medication to improve mental health conditions.
A master's degree in psychology prepares students for a career in mental health. Whether your plan is to become a therapist or to have a research career, knowledge of psychopharmacology can be beneficial.
Browse online psychology programs that cover psychopharmacology
Master's in psychology that teaches psychopharmacology overview
A master's degree in psychology that teaches psychopharmacology typically provides students with the foundational courses they need to begin their career as a mental health professional. Common courses include:
- Psychopathology
- Human growth and development
- Counseling techniques
- Assessment and diagnosis
- Family therapy
- Substance use counseling
Your program will also have courses related to research and statistics and you may need to complete a clinical internship. A psychopharmacology course is usually an elective and provides a general overview of the role of psychotropic medication in therapeutic treatment.
What is psychopharmacology?
Psychopharmacology is the scientific study of pharmaceutical use in treating mental health conditions. It is a subspecialty within clinical psychology that requires an understanding of how medications interact with the body and mental health conditions.
During assessments, psychologists apply this knowledge to their clinical recommendations to start or stop psychotropic medications. Psychologists then communicate this information to the prescribing physician. In some states, clinical psychologists with specialized training may prescribe medications.
What jobs can you get with a master's in psychology that teaches psychopharmacology?
The careers that you can qualify for with a master's in psychology largely depend on your career goals and what state you work in.
If you plan to work in the clinical setting, you will need to check your state board requirements. You can become a licensed therapist with a master's degree, but most states require a doctoral degree to become a licensed clinical psychologist.
A research career does not commonly require state licensure, but it does require a minimum of a master's degree along with research experience.
Here are a few careers to consider:
Psychologist
Psychologists study the human mind to help people understand and/or change their behavior. Depending on their work setting and specialty, they may conduct research related to psychotropic medications, complete clinical assessments, and refer their patients to certain medications.
Marriage and family therapist
Marriage and family therapists diagnose and treat cognitive, behavioral, or similar conditions in the context of couples and other relationships. They might use their knowledge of psychopharmacology and educate their clients about how medications might affect the body or mood.
Substance use counselor
Substance use counselors help people manage substance use issues. They use their knowledge of psychopharmacology in their assessment and evaluation of patient's substance use history and treatment planning.
Depending on the state where you work, you may be able to become a substance use counselor with a bachelor's degree.
Epidemiologists
Epidemiologists are public health professionals who investigate patterns and causes of disease and injury. These professionals apply their knowledge to mitigate the risk of adverse health outcomes through research, community education, and health policy.