Recognized for Exceptional Curriculum, Innovative Tracks and Mental Health Education

Alabama A&M University’s Psychology Degree Programs are ranked among the most valuable degree programs in the South for 2024 by Research.com, the leading online education platform that uses data-driven information to help students find the best colleges and degree programs.

This accolade highlights the University’s commitment to providing exceptional psychology education while preparing students for dynamic careers in a growing field. Research.com selected Alabama A&M due to its dedication to academic excellence and student satisfaction.

“We are thrilled to receive this recognition,” said Dr. Tonya Davis, an alumna of the Class of 1997 and Chairperson of the Department of Psychology and Counseling. “Our department has a longstanding commitment to quality programming and proactive efforts to expand its impact in mental health by improving clinical training and forming new partnerships with local and national agencies, based on feedback from students and alumni.”

Davis attributes the recognition to the dedication of the department's diverse faculty, an engaged student body, strategic realignments, and key partnerships. She also acknowledges the support of the Department's Student Advisory Council, the External Advisory Board, and the vision set by Alabama A&M University President Daniel K. Wims.

Expanding Opportunities in Psychology & Counseling Field

Alabama A&M offers a broad range of programs tailored to meet the evolving demands of the psychology profession. Just last month, the Alabama A&M University Board of Trustees approved three new undergraduate specialty tracks in Forensic Psychology, Clinical Psychology, and Sport Psychology.

“Our programs are responsive to the trends in the field, and we are currently exploring the addition of coursework such as Cyberpsychology and Health Psychology,” said Davis. She also highlighted plans to launch a Clinical Training and Research Laboratory next year, supported by nearly $500,000 in grant funding. In addition, the department’s graduate counseling program offers specializations in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Davis emphasized the department's innovative training programs, which provide graduate students with exposure to telemental health, coaching, and consultation experiences. One key initiative, the Bulldog Wellness (B-Well) Program, allows students to serve as wellness coaches, delivering coaching services and psychoeducational presentations to peers in residence halls under the direction of licensed professional counselors.

“Overall, data shows that our graduates are satisfied with the program and are successfully employed in a variety of settings, including private clinics, hospitals, and residential facilities,” said Davis.

High Demand for Mental Health Professionals

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 19% growth in demand for mental health counselors from 2023 to 2033, significantly outpacing the average for all occupations. Alabama A&M’s programs are designed to prepare graduates to meet this demand, equipping them with the skills and experience needed to thrive in a variety of professional settings.

Celebrating Leadership and Vision

The department’s success has garnered praise from alumni and advisory board members. Dr. Patrick Quirk, former President of the Alabama Psychological Association and a member of the Department's Advisory Board, commended the department’s leadership and vision. "We are pleased with the direction and leadership of the Department of Psychology & Counseling and are excited about its future,” he said.

Dr. Sam Baker, President of the Advisory Board and a Licensed Professional, echoed this sentiment,  “I’m proud that our curriculum is not only strong but also gaining the recognition it deserves.”

Dr. Peter Eley, Dean of the College of Education, Humanities, and Behavioral Sciences added, “Our program in Psychology has the most majors in our college with 400 plus. We are strategically offering new tracks in the program to meet the demands of the students.  It’s an exciting time to be a Psychology Bulldog supporting our Faculty as they shape the future of the field.”

With its innovative programs, strong partnerships, and focus on addressing societal needs, Alabama A&M University’s Department of Psychology & Counseling continues to excel, providing both an outstanding faculty and an exceptional student body. Dr. Davis concluded, “We have a great team of faculty and the best students. We are proud of our trajectory!”

(Photo L-R) Dr. CyTique Davis, assistant professor; Dr. Adrienne Vaughan-Parham, undergraduate psychology coordinator; Dr. Tonya Davis, department chair; Evelyn Smith, department secretary; Dr. Leath Bennett, associate professor; Dr. Sam Baker, alum and president of the Department of Psychology & Counseling Advisory Board