FAQs for Graduate Program Applicants

The Department of Psychology offers the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree program, which provides students with breadth of training in psychology and in-depth study in specialized areas. Qualified students are accepted into the Ph.D. program after their completion of either a baccalaureate degree or a master’s degree. Interested applicants should select to join a specific concentration. All students who are admitted for graduate study will begin in the subsequent fall semester.

Note: Applicants for the Community-Public Health Dual Degree are not required to submit separate applications through this process and the School of Public Health’s process using the SOPHAS system. However, applicants may choose to submit a SOPHAS application if they wish to be considered separately for the MPH or the Doctor of Philosophy in Public Health (http://publichealth.gsu.edu/academics-student-life/apply/).

How do I know if this is the right program for me?

Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the websites and publications of Faculty Reviewing Applicants to decide whether our department is a good match for the applicant’s research interests. "Fit" of applicant’s interests with faculty’s current research is important for admissions decisions.

Can I receive advisement on graduate admissions?

Potential applicants can ask questions about the admissions process via email (psygrad@gsu.edu). Advisement is not conducted in person..

EMAIL PSYCHOLOGY GRADUATE ADMISSIONS

Are there resources to help me with the application process?

We encourage you to seek guidance from psychology professors at your undergraduate institution. The APA also publishes a book that may be helpful: Getting In: A Step-by-Step Plan for Gaining Admission to Graduate School in Psychology.

How can I maximize my chances of being admitted?

We use a holistic approach in evaluating applications. We review grades from undergraduate coursework, letters of recommendation, application essays, prior research experience, and research interests. We are particularly interested in applicants with focused research interests that are compatible with the interests of faculty who are reviewing applications. Our department is also actively committing to building an inclusive field. Part of that commitment is prioritizing diversity and support for diverse individuals within our own department.

While we do not require an undergraduate degree in psychology, some social science coursework is recommended. Because the program is quantitatively oriented, college-level math and statistics are also advised. Research experience is helpful: successful applicants typically have worked on research projects as part of college courses, written an undergraduate thesis, or volunteered in a psychology research lab. Candidates’ research interests and compatibility with the program are determined in large part by the candidate's application essay, the Statement of Purpose. Here is a helpful guide for Crafting Your Personal Statement.

If I have a low GPA or little research experience, should I apply?

No single predictor is used to accept or reject an applicant. See Student Admissions, Outcome, and Other Data for information about the number of applications received yearly, the number applicants accepted yearly, their average GPA, etc. Previous research experience and, in the case of the Clinical and Community Programs, relevant applied experience is evaluated favorably in the admission process.

Who should write the letters of recommendation?

The letters of recommendation should be written by someone who can speak to your academic or research skills. You may choose a research mentor, clinical supervisor, instructor, employer, or anyone who knows you well.

Is this a part-time program?

No. This program requires a full-time commitment, and often more than full-time. The work includes coursework, lab work, participation in seminars and lab meetings, and 20 hours/week of paid instruction or research. Evening and online courses are not typically offered.

Can I transfer from my current master’s degree program?

Regardless of whether a student is coming directly from an undergraduate program or moving from another graduate program, all applicants must complete the same application. After being offered and accepting admission to the Department of Psychology, students who have earned a master’s degree from another institution may petition the Directors of Graduate Study to review graduate level courses for course waivers. Students who have completed a master’s thesis at another institution may also petition the committee to waive the master’s thesis requirement.

What type of financial assistance is provided for students?

All students are offered a monthly stipend and tuition waiver during their first 4 years of graduate school, if they remain in good standing with the department (i.e., maintaining the required GPA and meeting departmental responsibilities). The level of support for incoming students is determined when they are accepted; no separate financial application procedure is required. The Graduate School website has information about fees, financial aid, and fellowships.

Do you have a master’s degree program?

We do not offer a terminal master’s degree program. Students are only admitted into the Ph.D. program. Students do receive a master's en route to the Ph.D.

Will my application be reviewed if it is not complete?

No. Incomplete applications are not reviewed. Please begin the application process well before the deadline to ensure all material is received. It is especially important to request transcripts well in advance of the deadline.

What application materials are needed and how do I apply?

A list of application material can be found here and instructions for applying here.

When are applications for the spring semester due?

We admit cohorts of students to begin in fall semesters only. We have only one deadline per year as described on this website.

Where should I send my transcript?

Please refer to the Graduate School’s Admissions website.

Can unofficial transcripts be submitted with my application?

Unofficial transcripts can be submitted with the application. Official transcripts must be submitted if the applicant is admitted to the graduate program. Graduate School’s Admissions website for more information.

Can the application fee be waived?

With proper documentation, application fee waivers will be granted to applicants in programs designed to diversify graduate programs. Applicants can request this waiver and upload the appropriate documentation within the Office of Admissions – Graduate Programs application.

Can I apply for this program if I do not have an undergraduate degree in psychology?

Although an undergraduate major in psychology is not required, applicants are expected to have a background in psychology that includes a minimum of two courses that cover psychological statistics and research methods. These courses do not need to be taken at GSU.

If I have not taken the necessary courses to apply to the program, can I still apply and take them at the start of the program?

Since applicants are expected to have a minimum of two courses that cover psychological statistics and research methods to apply, it would not be possible to take the courses at a later time.

Where can I find the approximate cost for the program?

You can find the breakdown of average graduate rates by semester here.

Contact Us

Department of Psychology

Office Hours (Available Remotely):
Monday - Friday
8:30 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.

Office Hours (In Person):
By appointment

11th Floor, Front Desk:

404-413-6200

404-413-6207 (Fax)

7th Floor, Front Desk:

404-413-6217

404-413-6218(Fax)

ADMINISTRATION FACULTY & STAFF DIRECTORY

Psychology Department

General Inquiries

psychology@gsu.edu

Undergraduate Studies

Psychology Undergraduate Program

psyundergrad@gsu.edu

Graduate Studies

Psychology Graduate Program

psygrad@gsu.edu

Office/Delivery Address

Department of Psychology
Georgia State University
Urban Life Building
11th Floor
140 Decatur Street
Atlanta, GA 30303-3083

Find Us on the Map

USPS Mailing Address:

Department of Psychology
Georgia State University
P.O. Box 5010
Atlanta, GA 30302-5010

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