Utah Tech University has received approval to offer a new Master of Arts in Counseling and Clinical Psychology and an Associate of Science in Nutrition starting in Fall 2027. The new programs aim to meet workforce demands for mental health and nutrition professionals in Southern Utah and beyond.
The graduate psychology program is being developed following the American Psychological Association's expansion of accreditation to include master's-level programs in clinical, counseling, and school psychology. Utah Tech intends to pursue APA accreditation as the program becomes eligible. Currently, only six master's programs nationwide hold APA accreditation.
According to John Jones, chair of Utah Tech’s Psychology Department, the program is being built around rigorous standards for psychological science and clinical practice to serve Southern Utah and communities across the state. Program director Lisa Scott stated that students will build a foundation in psychological science while developing clinical skills to work with people from diverse backgrounds and worldviews.
Students in the master's program will receive training in counseling, diagnosis, ethics, supervision, and cultural responsiveness. The curriculum will also include the responsible use of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in mental health care. Students may choose to focus on specialty areas including Aging and Grief, Spirituality and Religion, or Trauma.
Graduates will be prepared for professional licensure and careers in non-profits, private practices, or in-patient programs. The program will be housed within Utah Tech’s Psychology Department, which already offers graduate training in Marriage and Family Therapy and undergraduate psychology programs.
The new Associate of Science in Nutrition, offered by the Department of Family Studies and Human Development, will also begin in 2027. This degree will complement a nutrition minor and an emphasis in integrated studies that was added this past fall.
Nica Clark, an assistant professor of family studies and human development-nutrition, said the program will prepare students with practical knowledge to help make a meaningful difference in the health and well-being of the people they serve. The curriculum focuses on food, nutrients, and eating behaviors to help prevent chronic disease. It introduces pathways toward becoming a Registered Dietitian, dietetic technician, or family/life coach.
Both the psychology and nutrition programs have received approval from Utah Tech’s Board of Trustees and the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Applications for the new psychology program are expected to open soon, with details available at psychology.utahtech.edu.
For more information on all academic offerings at Utah Tech University, visit academics.utahtech.edu.
