Abilene Christian University-Undergraduate Online

What you'll study

Coursework includes applied and research-focused subjects; examples listed in the catalog are:

• Psychotherapy
• Clinical Research Methods
• Advanced Psychopathology

Training blends classroom instruction with clinical experience serving clients under faculty mentors.

Entry requirements

• Complete the online application and pay the $50 application fee.
• Official transcript(s) in English showing a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or equivalent.
• Undergraduate GPA: unconditional admission typically requires a 3.5–4.0. Applicants with GPA 3.0–3.49 may be admitted on probation and must earn a B or above in each of their first four graduate courses or risk suspension.
• Three letters of recommendation, with at least two from psychology faculty or psychologists familiar with the applicant’s academic work.
• Completion prior to enrollment of at least 12 undergraduate semester hours in psychology including statistics, experimental psychology, abnormal psychology and an additional 3 hours (e.g., physiological, developmental, cognition, principles of learning) with a grade of B or higher in each prerequisite; prerequisites may not be taken concurrently.
• A 600–800 word written statement describing professional goals, interests, and reasons for choosing ACU’s psychology program.
• Non-native English speakers must pass an interview with two department faculty to demonstrate sufficient English and cultural skills for practicum client work; international applicants must also meet university English language test requirements.
• The department does not require the GRE or other tests for admission.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly pursue roles such as counseling psychologist, behavioral specialist, mental health counselor, guidance counselor, and addiction/substance abuse counselor. Prospective students should verify licensing rules for the state where they intend to practice, since requirements vary widely.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Most graduate students qualify for federal student loans to cover tuition and living costs if needed; questions can be directed to the contact provided by the program. The department supports student research and conference travel through faculty mentorship, departmental and college resources, and Graduate Student Association travel funding. All incoming full-time graduate students are considered for graduate assistantships, which typically require about 10 hours per week of research, teaching, service, or clinic work. GA awards are listed at $1,650 per semester (paid bi-weekly) and are generally available for up to four semesters; assistants are matched with faculty and may assist in courses, labs, research, or the ACU Psychology Clinic.