Frequently Asked Questions
Application and Admissions Questions
Q: Are there any pre-requisites for the program?
A: Yes. Applicants are required to complete at least 12 hours of undergraduate level psychology coursework. We recommend that this coursework include courses like Introduction to Psychology, Human Development, and Introduction to Psychopathology.
Q: What if I do not have all 4 pre-requisite classes?
A: Ideally, the pre-requisites should be competed at the time of application, but we can still consider a candidate if they will have all pre-requisites completed by the start of the program. However, this might put the candidate at a disadvantage compared to the other applicants at the time.
Q: How do I complete my pre-requisite classes at APSU?
A: Apply as a Non-Degree Seeking Student. Upon admission, register for the classes you need.
Q: What if I do not have the minimum GPA score?
A: GPA is one of several factors considered when making admissions decisions. The admissions
committee also considers information gathered from the applicant’s letters of recommendation,
personal statement, and interview process. This allows the committee to decide based
on a more holistic understanding of the applicant.
Q: What should I include in my personal statement?
A: Your personal statement should be an approximately 2 page essay that responds to the prompt: “Please describe what is drawing you to the Counseling field. What strengths do you bring with you to the program and the profession? Specifically address your experiences related to diverse populations and how that will inform your work as a counselor.”
Q: How do I schedule my interview?
A: The admissions committee will begin review of all applications completed (including supporting materials) following the deadline on February 20th. The committee will send out invites to all qualified applicants for our interview day early March. Interview day is typically scheduled for mid-March and is held via zoom. Applicants attend in groups of approximately 12 students for 1 hour and 15 minutes during which they complete a group activity, individual interview, and Q&A time with current students. We make admissions decisions following interviews and applicants are notified of their admission status typically by the end of March.
Q: Do you have a job-embedded school counseling option?
A: The department of education and the Counseling program do allow for students to work toward school counseling licensure while job embedded. In order for this program to support students in this, students must meet the following requirements:
- The student has successfully passed the Praxis 5421 test
- The student is currently taking classes in a program AND only has one year remaining
- A school system has committed to hire the student for a school counseling position- this entails a letter of intent as well as a letter from an experienced counselor in the school/district who is willing to serve as a supervisor
Q: I am applying for the Green-to-Gold program, does this impact my registration process?
A: Green to Gold is managed through a separate program, more information and contact persons can be found here: https://www.apsu.edu/rotc/active-duty-soldiers-green-to-gold.php
Q: What if I already have a Master’s degree and am seeking additional coursework toward licensure?
A: You must still complete the full application process including 3 letters of recommendation,
personal statement, and faculty interview. You can find information specific to application
as a non-degree seeking student at this link:
Graduate Studies Categories of Admission
You will not be able to receive financial aid as a non-degree seeking student: Graduate Bulletin Categories of Admission
Q: If I already have a Master’s degree and am applying for the program will you consider that GPA or my Bachelor’s level GPA?
A: We will review the GPA at the Bachelor’s level. However, your GPA at the Master's level can help speak to your potential for successfully completing graduate level coursework.
Transfer Student Questions
A: Up to 9 hours of coursework completed prior to enrollment in the program at APSU. All transfer credit will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the program coordinator and admissions committee.
Q: What if I am currently enrolled at in a graduate program at another university…would it be possible to transfer or is the application process still the same as if just applying to the school?
A: You may be able to transfer in up to 9 credits, but the application process remains the same.
Program Information
Q: Is this an on-ground or online program?
A: This is an on-ground program. Although we do offer limited courses in an online or hybrid format, the majority of the program is only available in an on-ground format.
Q: What time are classes offered?
A: All on-ground courses are available from 4:30-7:30 on Monday-Thursday evenings with some sections of courses held at alternate times. Each class meets one time per week for 3 hours.
Q: How long is the program?
A: We offer our program on a 2-, 3-, or 4-year plan. Students on the 2-year plan typically take 4 classes per semester and are on campus for classes 3 nights a week. Students on the 3-year plan typically take 2-3 classes per semester and are on campus 2-3 nights a week. Students on the 4-year plan typically take 2 classes per semester and are on campus 1-2 nights a week.