A Survey of Master's-Level Psychology Programs: Admissions Criteria and Program Policies

Abstract

This study summarizes the admission and program characteristics of American master's-level graduate programs housed in psychology departments. Individual programs (N = 253) from 163 colleges and universities provided data, including the use of grade point average, Graduate Record Exam scores, and other tests (Psychology Graduate Record Exam, Miller Analogies Test, Test of English as a Foreign Language) for admission, as well as the importance of recommendation letters, interviews, research experience, practical experience, and personal statements. Additional information obtained included undergraduate course requirements, number of students accepted, admission caps, probationary admission, a strict deadline for admission, and rolling admission. Respondents also reported basic program characteristics, including length of program; use of thesis, comps, or practicum; removal policies; and the percentage of students obtaining licenses and continuing into a doctoral program.