FAQ

What differentiates this program from other Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology programs?

Several features distinguish this program from others. One of the most prominent is the unique Preceptor Model of Clinical Training which directly reflects the program's commitment to individualization and personalization during the clinical training process. Other outstanding features include: intensive, carefully arranged and closely monitored field training experiences in quality training settings during each year of every student's enrollment; the innovative Two Plus Curriculum for career-changers; ongoing attention to each student's respective career goals, academic status and learning needs by means of the highly personalized academic advising system; small class sizes; faculty with extensive clinical experience and expertise in the subject of their respective course offerings; and the involvement of program alumni with current students via a networking system to help in the search for jobs and career opportunities.

What are the minimum eligibility requirements for admission to the program, such as GRE scores and grades?

All elements of the application are given equal consideration and viewed together, so weaknesses in one area may be offset by strengths in another. It is recommended that applicants use the essay to explain any elements that do not accurately reflect his/her actual potential to succeed in the program.

Does the program offer evening and weekend classes?

With few exceptions, most classes are held during weekday hours and weekend classes are not offered.

Can I attend a portion of the program on a full-time basis and a portion half-time?

Students in the Standard Curriculum are required to attend on a full-time basis (minimum of three courses per quarter) for two years. Two-Plus students are enrolled in the program for a span of three years and are required to attend full-time during the first two years with

half-time enrollment in the third year recommended.

Can I begin the program at some point other than Fall Quarter?

All students begin the program in the Fall Quarter as courses and fieldwork experiences are sequenced accordingly.

Will this program prepare me to work with children in a clinical capacity?

The Child Assessment and Intervention specialization, in combination with a child-focused externship, provides students with the necessary skills and experience to work with children in a clinical capacity, and graduates of this track enjoy highly successful careers as child specialists.

Can I become a school counselor with a degree from this program?

This program does not have an endorsement to train school counselors; with a degree from this program, additional coursework from another program would be needed to work as a public school counselor, although some private schools have employed graduates of this program in

ounseling positions.

What kind of jobs and salaries are possible with this degree? 

A vast range of jobs are available with this degree. Depending on a student's area of specialization, possible job opportunities include direct counseling or staff positions in such settings as community mental health centers, inpatient/outpatient clinics and hospitals; research positions; university student services, career services and student affairs positions; and independent practice (see "Representative Jobs of Alumni"). Salaries vary with position, geographic locale, work setting and amount of experience; helpful information on this topic is available on the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics Web site under the heading of Community and Social Service Occupations/Mental Health Counselors.

Can I qualify for doctoral programs with this degree?

Approximately 30% of our graduates apply and are admitted to top-quality, highly competitive Clinical or Counseling Ph.D. or Psy.D. programs immediately upon graduation or after some work experience. Students interested in pursuing a doctoral degree at some time after graduation are encouraged to become involved in research projects while completing the Master's degree.

Application deadlines on The Graduate School Web site seem to conflict with the rolling admissions policy detailed in this web site. Which one is correct?

The Graduate School Web site contains information for both Master's and Doctoral program applicants and for different programs. Applicants to this Master's program may submit an application at any time; students are accepted on a rolling admissions basis until all available slots are filled.

How do I know if my application has been received?

After you have completed your online application and submitted it properly, you will be given a confirmation message that your application has been received. If you do not receive a confirmation, check with The Graduate School for further information. In addition, it is your responsibility to submit official GRE or TOEFL scores directly from Educational Testing Service to Northwestern University using institution code #1565, and to submit supporting documents to the Counseling Psychology program (letters of recommendation, essays, resume and transcripts). While there will be no official confirmation of receipt of these supplemental materials, you may request a confirmation of receipt at: counseling-psychology@northwestern.edu.

Are there different applications for the Standard and Two Plus Curricula?

All applicants apply to the Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology program. All applicants may indicate the curriculum preference in the essay; however, upon reviewing the application, the Application Review Committee will determine the curriculum for which the applicant is best suited. It should be noted that an undergraduate major in psychology and some type of prior relevant human service/social service experience is desirable for admission to the Standard Curriculum. Before recommending an applicant for admission, the applicant will be contacted to ensure agreement with the selected curriculum.

How do I know if Counseling Psychology best suits my skills and career goals or if I am better suited for Clinical Psychology, Social Work or Marital & Family Therapy?

Those who are currently considering this question should fully explore career options by such means as sessions with a career counselor, informational interviews with professionals in these fields or an in-depth literature search. The program coordinator is available to answer any questions that pertain to the application process.