Psychological Science Admission Requirements

Admission to the Psychological Science program is competitive and is based on a combination of grades, GRE scores, letters of recommendation and fit between student and faculty research interests. Admitted students are funded with tuition waivers and research/teaching positions. Applications are due by Dec. 15th.

Please read through the general instructions before filling out the online application. When filling out the online application select the Psychology Graduate Programs application, not the College of Science and Health application.

Psychological Science faculty review all application materials carefully and evaluates applications with emphasis on the following criteria:

1. Completeness of Credentials: Faculty will only review complete applications submitted before the deadline. The review process begins shortly after this date. Applicants will be notified if they qualify for an interview. In-person interviews are strongly preferred; however, phone/Skype interviews can be arranged if necessary.

2. Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Scores and Grade Point Average (GPA): The general GRE is optional for Fall 2024 admission. The Psychology Subject Test is required for non-Psychology majors, and recommended for Psychology majors applying to the Psychological Science program. A GPA of 3.5 or higher is advised. If an applicant is particularly strong in one area, but not another, these criteria are not followed rigidly.

3. Undergraduate Preparation: Students are expected to have had courses in statistics, experimental psychology, research methods, and other areas of psychology to permit advanced study in this field. The minimum requirement for admission is 32 quarter hours (24 semester hours) in psychology. Science, computer, and math courses are seen as positive indices. Emphasis is placed on the applicant's personal statement regarding commitment, motivation and experience in the area of experimental psychology. Download and fill out the Course History List form.

4. Three letters of Recommendation: Faculty carefully review letters of recommendation. Selected recommenders are encouraged to address the applicant’s academic abilities, potential for conducting research, and ability to work with others. 

5. Personal Statement Prompt: What do you want to study here? What in your background or personal experience has prepared you for graduate study and how has it done so?  A guideline of two to three pages is advised.

6. Minority Status: Psychological Science faculty encourage applications from students of minority background.

7. Students with Disabilities: Psychological Science faculty encourage applications from students with disabilities.

Take the next step

Learn more about Graduate Admission.
Attend an Admission Event.

Ready to apply?

If you need assistance to complete your application and/or have questions, contact the CSH Graduate Admission office at (773) 325-7315 or cshgrad@depaul.edu.