Frequently Asked Questions
1. Will I be able to study part-time? How long will I have to complete the degree?
While we prefer students who will study full-time, approximately one-third of our students complete their requirements on a part-time basis. Master of Science students must complete residency requirements as outlined in the graduate catalog. Students must fulfill all requirements for the degree within a time period of six consecutive years.
2. When are courses offered?
Most of our courses meet one day per week in the evening either at 4:00 - 6:30 p.m. or 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.
3. How many students are admitted each year? How many apply to the program?
We currently admit about 60 students per year, with approximately 15-20 students admitted to each of the School Counseling, Clinical Counseling and Student Affairs programs. Numbers of applicant's for master's programs ranged from 80-100 each year.
4. What is the deadline for admission? Is deadline absolute?
March 1st, 2008 is the deadline for admission to the Counseling and College Student Affairs programs. We must receive all application materials (Graduate School and Departmental) by March 1st for applicants to be considered for admission and to attend the Orientation and Pre-admission Interview. The Interview is usually held around the third week of March.
5. Do you require the GRE or MAT?
We currently require the GRE for admission to the Counseling program. However, the GRE is not required for admission to the College Student Affairs program. See admissions for details.
6. How much does the test count in the application process?
The test counts 15% in the total weight of the application.
7. Are there undergraduate courses required for admission?
Abnormal Psychology is required of all students taking our Clinical Diagnosis course which is required in the community counseling concentration.
8. Who should I use as references?
We prefer that at least one reference be submitted from someone who can speak to your academic work. Other references may come from work supervisors. We do not encourage applicants to use personal acquaintances [friends, neighbors, clergy, etc.] as references.
9. What are my chances for admission?
We cannot give applicants an indication of acceptability without the entire application packet. Applicants are rated in comparison with all applicants in the particular pool of applicants. All required materials must be received before an application is processed.
10. Do I have to choose a track? Can I major in more than one track?
Each applicant is screened for and admitted to one of three programs (School Counseling, Clinical Counseling, or College Student Affairs). A student may pursue only one track.
11. Can I change concentrations or degrees once I am admitted?
You will need to go through the admission process again to be considered for another concentration or degree.
12. What is the shortest time in which I can complete a master's degree?
All of our concentrations are two-year programs. Because some courses are offered only once year, and because of the prerequisites for some courses, students should expect two full years of study.
13. What are the possibilities for financial aid? An assistantship?
Several graduate assistantships are available through our Department. Graduate assistantship stipends range from $750 (nine month appointments) to $875 per month. Tuition waivers are also provided for students with graduate assistantships. Other assistantships are available outside the department, especially for students admitted to the M.S. in Student Affairs. Students interested in obtaining these assistantships must contact the director of the specific department to obtain application information. Eastern Illinois University adheres to the resolution adopted by the Council of Graduate Studies regarding Graduate Scholars, Fellows, Trainees, and Assistants.
http://www.cgsnet.org/?tabid=201
14. How soon after the Pre-Admission Interview will I know if I have been admitted?
Approximately April 1 is when you will know if you have been admitted to the department. You will be notified by mail.
15. Are courses offered off-campus?
Yes. However, these courses are usually associated with a targeted cohort offered through an ROE. You can call the School of Adult and Continuing Education (1-800-446-8918) and request a schedule of off-campus classes.
16. Can I enroll in courses before being admitted to the Department?
Students admitted to the Graduate School are eligible to enroll in graduate courses. However, the department limits you to 12 semester courses (see graduate catalog for specific courses) before being admitted. Also, if you decide to take courses you do so at your own risk. Enrolling in classes does not guarantee admission to the Department.
