How to Apply

Philosophy About Personal Qualities

Applicants to the Master of Arts Program in Counseling Psychology do not need to have an extensive background in psychology, although there are some requirements for this in the Expressive Arts concentration. The Admissions Committee is concerned with personal qualities and academic achievement. Applicants are encouraged to feature these qualities during personal interviews and in essays.

We believe that the mission of Mental Health Counseling is a sacred work of healing. The personal qualities of the prospective student are of the highest importance. These include humility, empathic compassion, curiosity, the ability to listen without narcissistic interference, and other attributes. We talk with prospective students as much as we do to try to ensure that they are on this personal path. With students who are academically weak, we can—if they have the right attitudes—help them ameliorate their weaknesses. But students who do not grasp the mission of Mental Health Counseling as we understand it, even if they are academically accomplished, would be better seeking a different training elsewhere.

Required Application Items

The Admissions Committee carefully considers all applications to the College, looking beyond the paperwork to see the individual who wants to be a member of our community. In addition to the admission criteria listed below we also consider a student's potential for growth and success at Prescott College.

Applicants to either the Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology or Post-Master's Certificate programs (Equine Assisted Mental Health or Ecopsychology/Ecotherapy) must complete and submit the following items before the published due dates:

• Application: Limited-Residency Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology

• Resume
• Essay #1
• Essay #2
• Two Letters of Recommendation
• Official Transcripts from all colleges and/or universities previously attended
• $40 Non-refundable Application Fee

Transcripts

The Prescott College Limited-Residency Master of Arts Program requires applicants to submit the official undergraduate and graduate transcripts of each regionally accredited institution attended since high school.

Submit official transcripts directly to Admissions. Scanned official transcripts will only be accepted if emailed directly from the issuing institution to admissions@prescott.edu.

Official transcripts may be faxed to Admissions—(928) 776-5242—if they are faxed directly from the issuing institution.

Applicants may also submit official transcripts if they are received by Admissions in a sealed envelope from the issuing institution.

Note: If you have questions about your proposed area of academic focus and whether it is supported by the Prescott College Master of Arts Program, please contact the Limited-Residency Master of Arts Admissions Representative prior to completing this essay, (877) 350-2100.

Expressive Arts Therapy Applicants

Applicants to the Expressive Arts Therapy concentrations must also submit at minimum a portfolio or demonstration of work. Along with artwork, please submit a brief descriptive statement which includes the date completed, title, medium, and size of each piece. A minimum 12 slides or prints must be submitted. Applicants may choose to submit their work in a slide sheet, CD, DVD, or a link to a website that clearly identifies you as the artist. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you would like your samples returned once the admissions process is complete.

Post-degree applicants

Applicants to the Post-graduate Master's concentrations must be licensed counseling professionals and must have already earned a Master's degree in a mental health related field such as counseling psychology, social work, marriage and family therapy, education, organizational development, experiential education, and others.

Additional Required Application Items

In addition to required application items, applicants to the Post-Master's Certificate program must submit proof of licensure and complete a personal interview. The interview will be scheduled by a member of the Counseling Psychology department.

Application Due Dates

If accepted into the Master of Arts Program your spot will be held until the reply date, at which point you must submit a nonrefundable $100 deposit to confirm your intention to enroll.

Fall 2013 Term

Priority* Due Date—April 15

Spring 2014 Term

Priority* Due Date—September 15
Final Application Due Date—October 15

*Applicants who submit their completed application by the Priority Due Date will be considered for Graduate Fellowships.

Submit application materials to—

Prescott College
Admissions
220 Grove Avenue
Prescott, AZ 86301

In certain cases one or more requirements may be waived.