School Psychology Admissions Criteria

Each year, we receive a number of applications for the School Psychology Doctoral Program. Typically, 5-7 students are admitted to the Ph.D. program. The following sources of information are considered in making admission decisions.

A complete application should include:

• Transcripts*
• Undergraduate GPA (overall and psychology-specific)
• Graduate GPA (if applicable)
• Curriculum Vitae or Resume
• Previous Research
•  Prior Experience in Applied Settings
• 3 Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement

Explain how your interest fits the requested program faculty’s research expertise.

* Unofficial transcripts may be uploaded to the online application. Official transcripts should be mailed to the Graduate School after being accepted into the program

**GRE scores may be submitted by using the following school code: 5818.

 

 

During a designated "interview day" in January, applicants are invited to come to the University to meet the faculty and students currently in the program. This provides an excellent opportunity for applicants to acquaint themselves with program faculty and students and ask questions about the program. Additionally, applicants can learn about training opportunities, program resources, funding options, etc., which will enable applicants to better evaluate the program. Applicants invited to interview day should attend if at all possible, although it is recognized that some applicants will not be able to attend. No applicant will be denied admission because of missing an interview day. An invitation to an interview in no way guarantees acceptance into the program.

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Tips for Submitting a Competitive Application

• All application materials must be furnished by the application deadline date, December 1 to be considered for admission in the fall of next year. There are no mid-year admissions or consideration for part-time student status. It is the applicant's responsibility to make sure all materials arrive on time for review. Note that one may apply to only one graduate program at USC in a given year.
• A successful application will highlight preferences for a faculty mentor on the application. Decisions regarding your faculty mentors should be based on research and professional interests. Applications should be submitted on-line from the USC Graduate School application homepage http://www.gradschool.sc.edu/apply.htm. Please specify the psychology program in which you are interested.

Additional information can be obtained from the Graduate Office.

Graduate Student Services
1512 Pendleton Street, Barnwell College, Office 248
Columbia, SC 29208-0182

Phone: (803) 777-2312
Facsimile: (803)777-9558
Email: psycinfo@mailbox.sc.edu