Consideration for admission to the MA program will be given to students with an honours BA or BSc (or its equivalent) in Psychology or a related field of study (in exceptional cases) (e.g. Computer science, neuroscience) and a minimum of a 'B+' standing. Students are normally expected to have taken courses across the breadth of psychology with some courses in the area to which they are applying. A strong background in methodology and statistics is expected. As well, applicants must have undertaken an Honours thesis research project or senior research project equivalent. Students are admitted to the MA program with the understanding that they intend to proceed to the PhD program.

Students must have completed MA requirements in the appropriate field of study (Applied Cognitive Science; Applied Social Psychology; Clinical Psychology: Applied Developmental Emphasis; Industrial/Organizational Psychology) with a minimum 'A-' standing to be eligible for admission to the PhD program. These MA requirements are normally met within the department in a two-year course of studies comprising specified course work and a thesis. Students admitted to the PhD program who have completed MA or MSc degrees in other fields of study and/or from other universities may be required to take MA level courses to ensure adequate background preparation for PhD work.