Clinical Psychology - Kansas Community College Pathways Program
*This program is pending approval and is not currently active.
Purpose
The Clinical Psychology Kansas Community College Pathways Program at Fort Hays State University offers students a clear path to an exciting and in-demand career that supports the mental health needs of individuals and communities of rural Kansas and beyond. The program connects the Kansas community college transfer agreement with the FHSU clinical psychology program. The result is a clear and efficient pathway to complete either the on-campus or online/hybrid MS Clinical Psychology program. For more information, eligibility criteria, and to apply, please see the information below. At this time, community colleges outside of Kansas are not included in the pathway program.
What Do Clinical Psychologists Do?
Clinical psychologists provide services to individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan, and populations from all ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The problems or needs addressed range from minor adjustment issues to serious mental health problems. Clinical psychologists work with groups and communities to address or prevent problems and intervene in organizations, institutions, and communities to enhance people’s effectiveness and well-being. The specialty of clinical psychology addresses behavioral and mental health issues faced by individuals across the lifespan including:
- Adjustment issues and traumatic stress reactions
- Interpersonal or social problems and dysfunction
- Behavioral problems including substance abuse and dependence
- Intellectual, cognitive, and neurological conditions
- Emotional and psychological problems, including serious mental illness and crisis intervention
Benefits to Completing the FHSU Clinical Psychology Pathways Program
1. Guaranteed Admission into the Clinical Psychology Graduate Program at FHSU: This secured path removes the stress of a highly competitive application process, allowing students to focus on developing skills and experiences crucial for working in the clinical psychology field.
2. High Demand for Clinical Psychologists: Addressing the nationwide shortage of clinical psychologists, particularly in rural and underserved areas, is critical. Graduates are well-positioned to meet this demand, making a difference in communities facing these shortages and responding to the increasing demands of mental health needs. With a master’s degree, graduates can work in various mental health settings, including clinics, hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, and private practices.
3. Preparation for Licensure: In many regions, a master’s degree is a prerequisite for licensure as a professional counselor or therapist. It allows graduates to pursue clinical roles where they can provide therapy, administer assessments, and work with patients directly.
4. Professional Growth and Personal Fulfillment: The degree offers both professional development and personal insight, helping individuals better understand human behavior, emotions, and interpersonal dynamics. Many find this growth personally fulfilling and useful in everyday life.
How to Apply for the Program
Students must apply for the pathway during the third semester of the AS/AA program. Students are guaranteed acceptance to the accelerated MS School Psychology program if they maintain a 3.5 GPA at both the associate’s and bachelor’s level. At this time, community colleges outside of Kansas are not included in the pathway program.
Clinical Psychology Pathways Program - Application Link
*Note: Students can use the link above to apply to the program during the third semester of the AS/AA program. In addition to completing this application, students must also apply to Fort Hays State University as a degree-seeking undergraduate student. (https://www.fhsu.edu/admissions/admissions-application/)