Applying to graduate school takes time and careful consideration. The earlier you begin your application, the smoother the process will be. It is helpful to begin your application process at least one year before you would start the graduate program. This timeline includes approximate dates to complete each step. The final application deadline is December 1.
Summer (prior to enrolling)
- Begin browsing through the program website to become familiar with the program. Note any questions or concerns and schedule an appointment with the Graduate Student Recruitment Coordinator if necessary.
- The OSU-Cascades Master of Counseling program application typically opens in September.
- The OSU-Cascades Master of Counseling program has five application questions that address the following:
- What motivated you to pursue a counseling career? (Suggested length 200 words);
- There are several graduate programs that prepare students to provide counseling services to clients or student clients. Please describe how enrollment in a graduate counseling program aligns with your short-term and long-term professional goals. (Suggested length 200 words)
- What skills and aptitudes do you believe are essential to succeeding in a graduate counseling program? Consider your personal and professional life experiences, A.) describe which skills and aptitudes align with your strengths, and B.) which are still emerging. (Suggested length 200 words)
- How have your personal and professional experiences contributed to your understanding of the ways in which power, oppression, privilege, and inclusion influence your worldview? (Suggested length 300 words)
- Is there additional context that you would like to offer as we review your application that we did not ask about? (Suggested length 200 words)
- Starting early will give you time to revise and clarify your statement.
- Review your current resume detailing the following aspects:
- Educational Experience: This may include but it is not limited to undergraduate program(s), certificate or training programs, ongoing learning and development related to issues of justice, equity, and inclusion, involvement in undergraduate clubs or leadership activities, involvement in undergraduate mentoring or support networks, study abroad or service-learning experiences
- Work and/or Vocational Experience: This may include but is not limited to paid work positions and can include internship positions, unpaid positions in the service of family or caregiving, promoting the well-being of others and communities, engaging in advocacy and/or advancing equity and inclusion
- Volunteer Experience: This may include but is not limited to seeking out new and challenging experiences in service to community, others, or non-profit, school or organization
September
Check the website for scheduled Open Houses. Register for Open Houses, either in-person or virtual. These are excellent opportunities to learn more about our program and meet core faculty.
October
- Begin filling out your application form online.
- Request copies of your official transcript(s). Unofficial transcripts will be required at the time of application submission. If admitted, official transcripts will be required at the time of admission.
- If you are admitted, and your degree is pending then ensure that you submit your official transcripts with your degree conferred as soon as it’s available. If you are admitted to the program, then there will be a hold on your registration until your degree is posted and submitted to OSU-Cascades.
- If you have any questions regarding unofficial or official transcript requirements, then please email osucascadesgradprograms@osucascades.edu.
- Put the finishing touches on your statement of objectives and have it reviewed by friends, colleagues or career counselors. Many colleges and universities provide alumni with career related services (i.e. resumes, cover letters, graduate school applications, etc.). You might consider checking what services are available to you at your alma mater.
November
- Complete applications even if your deadlines are later. This will allow time to navigate technical challenges and any other unexpected hiccups.
- Email osucascadesgradprograms@osucascades.edu if you have any concerns regarding receipt of your application. Enrollment Services will contact you regarding any missing application materials.
December
- Final deadline: December 1
December/January
- This is a good time to send in financial aid information, if necessary.
January/February
- Interview Days are typically held in late January or early February for invited applicants. Interviews are typically offered in virtual and in-person formats for a half-day experience. The MCOUN Interview Day is an important step in the application process and is required to be considered for admission.