Psychological Counseling Program Frequently Asked Questions
Is the GRE required? Is the Psych GRE required?
Neither the GRE nor Psychology GRE are required for admission into the Ed.M. Program in Psychological Counseling.
Who should write my letters of recommendation?
Given that you are applying to an academic program in the counseling profession, it is highly recommended that your letter writers be either professors who can address your academic potential or supervisors/managers who discuss your professional or job skills. In other words, your letter writers should know you fairly well from an academic or professional perspective and be able to discuss in a positive way your potential for success in our graduate.
What should be included in my personal statement?
The personal statement is a unique opportunity to introduce yourself and provide us with a narrative regarding your interests in both counseling (please identify your specialization) and our Program at TC specifically. Previous experiences in coursework, research, and/or professional and volunteer work are ideal components to emphasize. We are interested in learning about you as a person, though please remember this is a professional essay that should be written in a clear and concise manner. Be sure to have several people read and provide feedback about your statement.
Is it possible to transfer into the department if I am a current TC student?
If you are a current TC student and are interested in the Ed.M. Program, you will need to submit a complete application to the Program. Please contact the Admissions Office regarding the application process.
How many TC courses will transfer into the Program?
Students may transfer up to 12 credits from another graduate institution toward the 60 points required for the Ed.M. degree. Possibly relevant graduate work completed at other institutions and in other departments and programs at Teachers College is indicated by the Admissions Office. Your Advisor, in consultation with other members of the faculty as needed, determines the applicability of previously earned graduate credits to your Program. Approval of transfer credits must be conducted no later than by the end of your first semester; transfer credits will not be accepted thereafter.
Can I stop at the MA or do I have to continue in the Program until I complete all 60 credits?
While students are not accepted into the Program as candidates for the terminal M.A., Ed.M. students may apply for the M.A. degree en passant. To satisfy residence requirements, the candidate may apply for the M.A. degree in the semester in which she or he will complete 45 out of the 60 points required for the Ed.M. at Teachers College. Please note that transfer credits can not be used toward the M.A. en passant.
Can I specialize in more than one area?
We offer three specialty tracks: Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, and Rehabilitation Counseling. Students generally specialize in only one area, given the coursework and fieldwork requirements in each area.
How often are students admitted?
Applications are considered twice a year, with students beginning their studies in either the Fall or Spring terms. Candidates should apply to the Office of Admissions,
While many students enroll as full-time students, others enroll for part-time study. However, according to TC policy, the period of candidacy is five years, meaning you must complete the Ed.M. Program within this time period.
Many required courses are scheduled in the late afternoon or evening, thus making it possible for students to complete the Program as part-time students. However, it should be noted that at times, required courses may be offered during the day, and students should be prepared to make needed accommodations. Generally, full-time students can complete the degree in two academic years with some summer study as an option.
What is fieldwork and how do I get placed?
The primary objective of fieldwork is to enable students to apprentice in the role of a practicing counselor. Counselor interns become part of a professionally approved counseling site in which they can observe successful practices, participate in all aspects of the Program and apply classroom learning to actual clinical, school, and organizational situations. Interns are expected to function as part-time employees of their chosen fieldwork site during the academic year. Students will receive an orientation regarding Fieldwork placement in the year prior to attending, and will work with the Fieldwork Coordinator to identify potential sites at which they may be placed.
How are students matched with an advisor?
Recognizing that both faculty and students have much to gain from more sustained contacts than are possible at registration time or even during office hours, students are assigned an Advisor at the beginning of their first semester in the Program. It is essential that students contact their Advisors as soon as possible for accurate information regarding Program requirements and planning their Program of study as well as discussion of professional development goals.
Do I have to decide my area of specialization on my admission application?
Yes, you may choose among Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, and Rehabilitation Counseling.
What's the difference between Psychological Counseling and Counseling Psychology?
Psychological Counseling refers to the Ed.M. degree Program, whereas Counseling Psychology refers to the Ph.D. Program.
What is difference between School Psychology and the School Counseling track of Psychological Counseling?
The two programs are quite different in content and training, though both professions focus on helping individuals within school systems. As a specialty area, School Counseling consists of essential functions generally found in the counseling profession as well as services unique to school settings. In addition, school counselors practice at all levels of programs or services to reflect the different needs of diverse student populations. Promoting self-understanding of students in relation to their home, school, and community are some of the functions of school counselors. Moreover, school counselors play an important role in helping students to examine their present life situations and to make developmental plans and decisions for their future. Counselors also assist parents, guardians, and teachers in helping students have equal opportunity to reach their educational goals, choose appropriate career directions, and develop interpersonally.
School psychologists focus on the application of cognitive and developmental psychology to the promotion of competence in learning and mental health in schools and other educational contexts. Course work provides students with a strong foundation in the theory and research of cognitive and developmental psychology and its application to: (a) the instruction and learning of school related subjects, particularly reading, and (b) the understanding and treatment of mental health problems. Practica and internship experiences provide students with the opportunity to apply this knowledge directly to their work with clients.
Is background in psychology a requirement for the Ed.M.?
While an undergraduate major in psychology or a related behavioral and social science is an advantage, it is not required.
If I take classes as a non-degree student, am I viewed more favorably when I apply?
Taking classes as a non-degree student is an option you may pursue to gain some experience with our courses. While excellent performance in these courses might serve to indicate your potential for success in the Program, faculty consider the entire admission application for each person.
If I am admitted into the Ed.M. and would like to purse the Ph.D. do I have to apply to the Program?
Yes, if you are interested in the Ph.D. Program, you will need to submit an application for this Program. Ed.M. students who apply and are subsequently admitted to the doctoral Program in Counseling Psychology at Teachers College can ordinarily expect to receive credit for up to 30 points toward the 90 points required for the doctorate.
Is it possible to change areas of specialization in the Program?
You can, although it may take longer to complete the degree Program.
Can a student take elective classes within other departments at TC?
Elective courses should have a mental health or psychology focus as their course content; all elective courses must be approved by an Advisor.