Apply to a Graduate Program in Counseling Psychology

Prospective students interested in applying to any of the three degree programs in Counseling Psychology should read this page carefully and all forms linked below.  Note that all prospective students must complete both a Graduate School application and a departmental application, both of which are described below. The Counseling Psychology Faculty members believe that personal development is essential to becoming an effective clinician. Experience as a client in both individual and group settings is an excellent way to attend to both personal and professional development by helping you to become comfortable with aspects of self-disclosure and reflective self-examination.  These personal and professional activities are frequently necessary for competent performance in classes and in practicum training experiences.  For example, you can expect to observe and be observed conducting therapeutic activities, to give and receive appropriate peer feedback, and to display self-awareness, including the impact of your social locations and cultural values on your interpersonal interactions.  Consider these requirements carefully when thinking about applying to our programs and accepting any offer of admission.

Application Deadlines:              PhD Program: January 15             MS/EdS Programs: February 15

GRADUATE SCHOOL APPLICATION

STEP 1: Apply online to the University of Kentucky Graduate School (click link below).

STEP 2: Send all official materials to the Graduate School:

The Graduate School
University of Kentucky
Attn: Records Office
The Gillis Building
Lexington, KY 40506-0033

Note: Official transcripts and offical GRE scores are required for all applicants. Applicants whose native language is not English are also required to submit official TOEFL or IELTS scores. Unofficial copies of these documents should also be sent to the EDP department (see instructions below).

DEPARTMENTAL APPLICATION

STEP 3: Download and complete a departmental application

Note: Steps 4-7 below are also fully described in this application.

STEP 4:  Compile the following supporting materials:

• Your resumé or vita (this should include your educational background, work experiences, professional certifications, professional memberships, publications, and references)
• Statement of Purpose, which should address the following questions:
  
  • What is your understanding of counseling psychology as a specialty discipline and why this program is a "good fit" for your specific career goals?
  • What is your theoretical orientation?  (PhD applicants only)
  • What previous clinical/counseling experience and/or life experiences do you have with diverse populations and/or different cultures?
  • What is (or will be) your contribution to issues of diversity and social justice?
  • What are your specific research interests?
• A sample of scholarly writing (PhD applicants only)
• Copies of all undergraduate and graduate transcripts (originals not required)
• Copy of your GRE scores (originals not required)
• Original or copy of TOEFL or IELTS scores (for applicants whose native language is not English)

Please be advised that the counseling psychology admissions committee does not use any single criterion for admissions decisions.  We consider GRE scores, GPA, letters of recommendation, previous professional and life experiences, diversity-related experiences and focus, career goals, research interests, and “fit” with overall program needs and goals.  This statement of purpose is an opportunity for you to convey to the faculty a more holistic view of your strengths and contributions as a professional-in-training in this program.

STEP 5: Send printed application and all supporting materials to the EDP Department:

STEP 6: Request three letters of recommendation

Download these instructions for letters of recommendation and send to each recommender. 

STEP 7: Letters of recommendation should be sent in a sealed, signed envelope to:

Questions about the admissions process should be directed to the Director of Graduate Studies, Dr. Rory Remer. If you have questions about the application forms, please call 859-257-7881 or contact Ms. Penny Cruse.