American School of Professional Psychology - Southern California at Argosy University, Orange County

Argosy University contains twenty-eight campuses and one robust online program that spans across the United States. With seven different colleges, the University offers a number of Bachelor, Master and Doctorate level programs in a variety of areas, and it boasts one of the largest collective student communities in the nation.

Located in Orange, California, the American School of Professional Psychology is part of the Argosy University system and is one of the top-rated schools specializing in both clinical psychology and counseling. First founded in the late 1970’s, the American School of Professional Psychology further developed after the merger of Argosy University in 2001.

The American School of Professional Psychology offers students two very robust and academically challenging programs that perpetuate lifelong learning and development in the field. The Master of Arts program equips students with the information and real-world learning experiences needed to excel in higher learning. This program establishes the foundation for success in the Doctorate level program. The Doctor of Psychology program prepares aspiring practitioners to be successful out in the community. Each program is grounded in both theory and research and allows for students to indulge in real-life, hands-on application to gain practical experience. Each program maintains a unique practitioner-scholar model and utilizes small group interactions for the best learning experience possible.

Students are encouraged to continue their learning outside of the classroom, as well. The American School of Professional Psychology is dedicated to providing students with plentiful continuing education opportunities. Once such opportunity is the “Life-Long Learning Initiative,” where students can attend one of many presentations focused on clinical psychology and counseling. The American School of Professional Psychology is dedicated to providing students with such opportunities to stimulate their intellect and further develop their professional dexterity in the field. In addition, the campus is located in Orange, California and is sited just a few minutes from major highways and other area attractions that further stimulate personal growth and cultural awareness.

The American School of Professional Psychology Accreditation Details

Argosy University maintains accreditation through the Senior College and University Commission of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Since Argosy is established and recognized as a private institution, it is also licensed by the California Bureau for Private Post-secondary Education.

The Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology program is separately accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Psychological Association.

The American School of Professional Psychology Application Requirements

Students who are interested in applying to the Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology program must hold a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or foreign learning center. Students must also present a grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and complete an interview with the admissions committee prior to being admitted into the program.

To apply to the Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology program, students must furnish:

• A completed application form with a non-refundable application fee
• A goal-statement page highlight personal and professional aspirations
• A current CV or resume
• Three letters of recommendation
• Official transcripts from all schools and institutions attended

While some exceptions are made for the above listed GPA and interview requirements, all decisions of admittance are final. Applicants receive written notification of admission after all paperwork is received and thoroughly reviewed. Students who are admitted into the program are required to pay a non-refundable $200 fee to reserve a spot in the incoming class. The deposit is then applied to first semester tuition upon the start of the program.

For students interested in applying to the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology program, the requirements are very much the same as the Master’s program. In addition to the above stated materials, students may elect to submit GRE scores as well, although this is not necessary.

Students who are applying to the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology program must also garnish proof of a Bachelor’s level degree from another college or university, have a 3.0 grade point average on a 4.0 scale, or demonstrate a graduate level grade point average of 3.25 on a 4.0 scale. Students are subject to an interview prior to admission. While some exceptions are made, all admissions decisions are final and are not subject to repeal. Students who are not accepted into either program are eligible to reapply by following the instructions listed in the reapplication policy.

Tuition and Financial Aid

For all graduate programs at Argosy University, students are charged per credit hour. For the 2015-2016 academic years, the tuition for the Master of Arts program in the College of Counseling, Psychology and Social Services is $750 per credit hour. The tuition for those looking to secure a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the College of Clinical Psychology is approximately $1,162 per credit hour. There are a number of associated fees that are not included in the above cost. These fees vary by location and include various training, University and housing fees.

There are online courses available for those interested in securing their Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology. The fee is estimated to be $750 per credit hour. While this cost includes a digital resource fee, it does not reflect any additional University fees that students may be subject to.

Pursuing a Degree at the American School of Professional Psychology

Whether students are looking to secure a Master’s degree or Doctorate level degree, the American School of Professional Psychology is the place to go for those interested in pursuing a challenging and rewarding career in the psychology and counseling field.

Both the Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology and the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology programs blend classroom instruction with real, hands-on learning for the best educational experience possible. Students are kept in small group settings where they are encouraged to learn, grow and excel in the field. Depending on each student’s interests and needs, students are placed in a wide range of settings to complete their clinical trials. The real-world experience and classroom education gained at the American School of Professional Psychology is invaluable and helps students shape a successful and fulfilling career in the field.