Application and Interview Process
The following information is provided for applicants to all four degree programs in the Department of Counseling and Development at Slippery Rock University.
INFORMATION ON APPLYING
The degree programs in Counseling and Development are accepting applications for fall, spring, and summer term enrollment.
The Department of Counseling and Development admits students into their degree programs on a rolling admissions basis. However, applicants should submit their application as early as possible to secure a spot in their preferred cohort. Applicants interested in obtaining an SRU Graduate Assistantship need to submit their application by February 15, 2023.
After the application form and all required credentials are submitted to the Office of Graduate Admissions, a faculty member will contact you to schedule a time to discuss how we can assist you in achieving your professional goals and interests. These meetings can occur over the phone, via Zoom, or in person. Our goal is to review your application and respond to admissions inquiries in a timely manner.
The application form and all required credentials are to be submitted to the Office of Graduate Admissions. All required credentials must be received prior to submission of the application for departmental review. Please note that the GRE is NOT a requirement for admission.
All applications must include:
- The online application.
- A $25 application fee.
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended.
- A minimum undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 to be considered for unconditional admission. Applicantions with a GPA of less than 3.0 are welcome, but may undergo additional screening before admission is granted.
- Two recommendation forms.
- A written statement of your career goals and interest in the program you are applying for. A detailed prompt is included with the application.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
International student applicants are required to use the international student application form and are required to submit all other credentials and schedule the required interview.
POST MASTER'S ENDORSEMENT PROGRAMS
Endorsement Programs are available on a limited basis for each of the program areas offered by the department. Those interested in applying for an endorsement program should follow the same application directions AFTER discussing plans with the department Graduate Coordinator. Applications will be considered for fall, spring, and summer semester admission.
TIPS FOR THE APPLICATION PROCESS
Reference Forms
The department suggests having these forms filled out by someone from the academic or professional fields, and should not come from personal or familial connections. Reference forms address:
- The student's capacity for graduate level work
- Suitability for the intended program area
- Ability to form interpersonal relationships
Applicants should provide their references with the reference form link and inform them of the application deadline. Giving your references at least two weeks notice to submit the form provides them with time to fill out the form and submit the optional recommendation letter. Without these forms your application will be considered incomplete.
Written Statements
There are a number of great online resources to help you successfully complete your written statement of career goals and program interest. The Department of Counseling and Development suggests that you utilize Google and search "how to write a personal statement for graduate school" to assist you in completing a clear and concise written statement.
QUESTIONS
Questions regarding Counseling and Development Programs may be directed to the Office of Graduate Admissions at 724.738.2051 or the Department of Counseling and Development at 724.738.2270.