Application Process

The Ph.D. program is for individuals holding a master's degree in counseling or marriage and family counseling. The following items are required for application to the Ph.D. program:

  1. Official transcript of master's degree from a regionally accredited college/university with at least a 3.25 GPA (on a scale of 4.0) and undergraduate degree where final degree is posted.
  2. Three completed Applicant Recommendation Forms (one from a character/moral reference and two from professors, employers, or supervisors in the counseling field).
  3. A 400-word letter of intent specifying the applicant's purpose and goals for entering the Ph.D. program.
  4. Professional vita (including a description of all masters-level practicum and internship experiences).
  5. Submission of official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test score (minimum combined verbal and quantitative score of 300 and analytical writing score of 3.5; writing score of 4 or higher is recommended). The analytical writing portion will be used to assess writing ability. The GRE must have been taken within 5 years of applying to the program.
  6. English Proficiency for international applicants: Applicants who did not receive a high school diploma or university bachelor’s degree with English as the medium of instruction must submit either:
    • TOEFL score of 100iBT/600pBT/250cBT,
    • IELTS score of 6.5, OR
    • Transcript from International English Institute showing successful completion of level six in ALL course areas offered at IEI with a letter or recommendation from the IEI Academic Director.

DEADLINE FOR COMPLETED APPLICATION FILE IS FEBRUARY 1st.

Candidates will participate in a formal individual and group interview on campus with the Interview Committee. This will be an opportunity to assess personal goals, oral communication skills, and ability to interact with other professionals.

Interview Committee

The purpose of the Interview Committee is to review the data submitted for application to the doctoral program. Because selection is based on a composite evaluation, the committee will determine whether the applicant is accepted or denied. 

The Interview Committee decision for acceptance or denial to the program is final and is not subject to appeal. The Interview Committee is comprised of selected graduate counseling program faculty.