As you prepare your application for the ACU Master of Science in Psychology program, you may have questions very similar to those of other applicants. Below are answers to a list of commonly asked questions.
Psychology FAQs
Admissions:
Which graduate psychology programs are offered at ACU?
ACU offers the following four graduation psychology programs:
- General Psychology (36 credit hours),
- Clinical Psychology (48 credit hours)
- Counseling Psychology (60 credit hours)
- Specialist in School Psychology (60 hours)
Are the application requirements and process the same for each of these programs?
Yes, the application process and requirements are the same for each of the four program options. You can click here to begin the application process.
When is the application deadline for the fall semester?
The Priority Review deadline (for scholarships and Graduate Assistantship consideration) is March 30th.
The Standard Review deadline is August 10th.
The International Student deadline is February 15th.
Do you need an undergraduate major in psychology in order to apply?
No, students with a variety of undergraduate majors have been admitted to our program and have been successful.
Are specific prerequisites required?
Yes, the following four courses are required for admission:
- Statistics
- Experimental Psychology (or a Research course)
- Abnormal Psychology
- 3 additional hours in physiological, developmental, cognition, learning, or an acceptable substitute
Is there an application fee?
Yes, the $50 application fee can be paid within your application portal.
What is the minimum GPA required to apply? Can students be admitted on probation?
Unconditional admission requires an undergraduate GPA of 3.5 - 4.0.
If an applicant meets all other requirements and has an undergraduate GPA of 3.0-3.49, he/she may be admitted on probation. The condition of probation means that the applicant must make a final grade of B or above in each of the first 4 courses required in his/her program.
Is the GRE required?
The GRE is not required.
When will I be notified of my admission decision?
Students are offered rolling admission on a priority basis until March 30. Students admitted on probation status will be notified mid April.
Program:
Is the program accredited?
The Specialist in School Psychology program is accredited by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).
If I am still deciding between the four program options, can I change my program after enrolling?
Yes, with faculty approval and academic advising, students can change their graduate program within the Psychology Department.
What is the average classroom size?
The average number of students per classroom is 12 students.
Can I enroll part-time?
Yes, students can enroll part-time.
If I am a current graduate student, can I transfer graduate credits from another university?
Yes, it is possible to transfer graduate credit with graduate faculty approval.
Does ACU have an on-campus clinic?
Yes, the Psychology Clinic offers low-cost counseling and assessment services to children, adolescents, and adults in the Abilene area.
What types of clinical experiences are offered?
The first practicum is primarily spent in our Psychology Clinic where students see a wide variety of clinical issues first-hand. Practica two and three are assigned based on the student’s interests and include: Community Medical Clinic, Inpatient Behavioral Health, University Counseling, Career Counseling, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, and more.
How many entry terms are offered per year?
The majority of students begin in the fall, however students can apply for a spring start.
What is the cost of tuition?
For cost information, please visit the MS in Counseling Psychology and review the Degree Details section.
Are scholarships or Graduate Assistantships offered?
Yes, many of our students receive graduate assistantships. Departmental scholarships are also available.
Is it possible to work while enrolled in the program?
Graduate Assistantships work 10 hours per week. Beyond that, students should seek employment that provides flexibility.
Can I meet with someone to discuss which program is the best fit for my career goals?
Absolutely! Students are encouraged to contact the Office of Graduate Programs to set up a campus visit. During the visit, you can meet with the Program Director and take a departmental tour. Please allow at least one week’s notice for scheduling purposes.
You can also connect with the Program Director via phone or email. Please call 325-674-6911 or gradinfo@acu.edu for more information.
What is Abilene like?
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