University of Southern Maine

ADMISSION APPLICATION DEADLINES

Application Instructions for M.S. and C.A.S. in Counseling

APPLICATION MATERIALS – Send in your application and fee as soon as possible!
A complete application consists of:

• two copies of the completed application form (a photocopy of the original is fine)
• two copies of the selection form (applicable to the M.S. only), a photocopy is fine
• the application fee of $50.00 made payable to USM
• two sets of official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended, including USM
• standardized test scores (GRE or MAT) This requirement is waived for applicants already holding a master’s degree.
• three recommendations
• essay (see below for specific essay questions)
• certification of finances (international students only)
• TOEFL scores (international students whose first language is not English)

Link to application: http://www.usm.maine.edu/grad/pdfs/Grad_Application.pdf
Link to recommendation form: http://usm.maine.edu/grad/pdfs/Ltr_of_Rec_Form.pdf
Link to the selection form:
http://www.usm.maine.edu/cehd/counselor-education/files/Counselor-Ed-Selection-Form.pdf

SPECIAL APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

M.S. in Counseling Applicants:
Special Essay: Please submit a narrative in the form of an autobiography that relates the experiences which have led to an interest in counseling, and the counselor education program. Candidates are also asked to address the following statement: "As counseling professionals, we are constantly seeking areas in ourselves that bear examination and change. As future practitioners, you will be witness to a wide variety of client experiences." Please discuss areas in yourself that may block your ability to empathically listen to client experiences that are different than your own. The essay should be limited to three typed, double-spaced pages.

C.A.S. in Counseling Applicants
Special Essay: A brief essay (500-700 words) which includes the applicant’s reason(s) for pursuing advanced graduate study: the proposed focus of the applicant’s program, including specific courses if known; and an explanation of how the proposed program fits the applicant’s personal and professional goals.

Link for information on graduate admission testing, transfer of courses, and tuition and fees: Application & Enrollment Information for Graduate Study (PDF)

Application Instructions for Certificate in MHRT/Community

APPLICATION MATERIALS
A complete application consists of:

• Completed application form
• Nonrefundable processing fee of $15.00, payable to USM
• Official Transcripts or copies of official transcripts from all colleges and universities from which you received a degree
• Current Resume
• Personal Statement

Your application is reviewed when all materials have been submitted. Please allow 4-6 weeks for processing and admission decision once an application is complete.

Link to application: http://usm.maine.edu/grad/pdfs/App_Grad_Cert.pdf