Abilene Christian University

What you'll study

Coursework covers core clinical skills and research preparation. Example courses listed in the catalog include:

• Psychotherapy
• Clinical Research Methods
• Ethics and Issues in Professional Psychology
• Clinical Assessment

Training emphasizes individual and group counseling, clinical interviewing, psychological testing, and professional issues. Research design and analysis are included to prepare students for scholarly work or further doctoral study.

Entry requirements

Applicants must submit an online application with a $50 fee and provide official transcripts showing a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. Unconditional admission typically requires an undergraduate GPA of 3.5–4.0; applicants with GPAs of 3.0–3.49 may be admitted on probation and must earn a grade of B or higher in the first four required courses. Three letters of recommendation are required, with at least two from psychology faculty or psychologists.

Prerequisite coursework (minimum grade B in each) includes at least 12 undergraduate semester hours in psychology: statistics, experimental psychology, abnormal psychology, and one additional course such as physiological psychology, developmental psychology, cognition, or principles of learning. Prerequisites must be completed before beginning graduate courses. Applicants must submit a 600–800 word statement of professional goals and reasons for choosing ACU. The department does not require the GRE.

International and non-native English speakers must pass a departmental interview with two psychology faculty to demonstrate sufficient English and cultural competence for practicum client services; international applicants must also meet the university’s English language test requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates gain clinical practicum experience and training in assessment, psychotherapy, interviewing and testing, qualifying them for roles in mental health settings, community agencies, school-related positions, or as preparation for doctoral programs and research careers. The program’s practicum and assistantship opportunities are designed to develop skills relevant to private practice management and applied clinical work.

Scholarships & funding angle

Most graduate students are eligible for federal student loans to cover tuition and living costs. The department supports student research and conference travel; recent students have presented at APA, SWPA and other professional meetings, and travel funding may come from departmental, college, or Graduate Student Association sources. Graduate assistantships are available (typically 10 hours/week, $1,650 per semester for up to four semesters) and often place students in research, teaching, or clinic roles that build professional experience.