Master of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology
Expand your role in patient care. Drake’s MSCP prepares licensed psychologists to integrate medication into treatment and broaden their impact.
Program Options
Please note Psychologists seeking credentials for prescribing medication must complete an experiential fellowship. This consists of a one-credit-hour course to be taken after completing the online MS in Clinical Psychopharmacology degree.
MS in Clinical Pscyhopharmacology
Advance your impact in mental health care with Drake’s online Master of Science in Clinical Psychopharmacology (MSCP), designed for licensed psychologists to gain the training needed to pursue prescriptive authority. Build the expertise to integrate medication management into your practice and expand access to comprehensive patient care.
Go Further with Drake
Networking Opportunities
You’ll connect with classmates from across the country, bringing a range of professional backgrounds and perspectives. These connections can expand your network, spark new ideas, and support you during your program and beyond.
Dedicated Enrollment Specialists
An Enrollment Management Specialist will be assigned to help you throughout your journey with Drake. They will assist you with advising, registration, and any other questions you have.
Immediate Career Skills
Courses are designed with real-world application in mind. You’ll gain skills you can use right away, helping you grow in your role and take the next step in your career.
Lead and Innovate in the Delivery of Health Care
The clinical psychopharmacology program delivers career-focused competencies in four key areas. Upon graduation, you will be prepared for the following:
Patient Care
Assess patients regarding the risks and benefits of pharmacotherapeutic, psychotherapeutic, and combined treatment of mental health disorders and medical comorbidities. // Appropriately prescribe medications and implement a safe and effective individualized monitoring plan for efficacy and toxicity of medications in individuals with mental health disorders. // Include individual patient factors in the decision-making process for determining appropriate pharmacotherapy in individuals with mental health disorders. // Provide inclusive care and demonstrate cultural competence in caring for individuals with mental health disorders.
Medical & Science Foundations
Utilize pharmacologic, physiologic, anatomical, and pharmaceutical understanding in the selection of pharmacotherapy for patients. // Demonstrate the ability to understand scientific and regulatory information, applying evidence-based scientific data in therapeutic decision-making. // Evaluate and analyze drug and medical literature to improve patient care and engage in effective research.
Interprofessional Collaboration
Apply the Interprofessional Education Collaboration competencies as a member of the interprofessional care team. // Utilize all members of the interprofessional healthcare team, capitalizing on the expertise of each profession, in designing and implementing pharmacotherapeutic, psychotherapeutic, or combined treatment plans.
Ethical & Legal Practice
Adhere to all American Psychological Association professional and ethical codes and standards. // Understand and abide by all laws, rules, and regulations related to providing psychological care and the prescribing of medications.
MSCP Admission & Application
Drake's MSCP program was developed for individuals licensed at the doctoral level. As such, the MSCP is a post-doctoral program only. Applicant's must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and a doctoral degree in psychology. Find full requirements below.
You will find the basic steps for applying below. Information for international students and where to send your transcripts can be found in the next drop-down.
- Click here to open the graduate application portal.
- Create or log in to an existing account.
- Fill out the information required on the application. Please be prepared to provide information such as basic personal details, previous institutions attended, and your most current employment.
- Submit copies of transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities. Upon acceptance, applicants that were admitted with unofficial transcripts will need to request official transcripts be sent to Drake University directly from previously attended colleges or universities. Official electronic transcripts may be sent to drakeonline@drake.edu. Official paper transcripts may be sent to the following:
Drake University
Attn: Office of Admissions
2507 University Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50311 - Submit an electronic copy of your résumé or curriculum vitae.
MSCP Admission Requirements
For psychologists planning to pursue a certificate of prescriptive authority in a US state, province or territory that allows for this through their respective scope of practice law, the psychologist must additionally complete a fellowship that is sponsored by Drake University. To apply for fellowship, the psychologist must:
- Hold and maintain a current, unrestricted license as a psychologist.
- Practice as a “health service psychologist” as defined by state law, where applicable, or as defined by the American Psychological Association.
Transcript Information
Mail transcripts to:
Attn: Drake Online & Continuing Education
2507 University Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50311
Transfer Credits
Students may transfer up to nine credit hours from another AACSB accredited graduate program. All transfer credits must be earned with a grade of B- or higher, must directly relate to the program of study, and must fall within the five-year time frame for program completion. Transfer credits will be applied to the degree program upon successful completion of at least one term of enrollment in the program.
International Students
Take the Next Step.
Move forward with a degree that builds practical skills you can use right away. Apply today or connect with our team to get started.
Contact
Drake Online & Continuing Education
drakeonline@drake.edu
