Application Process

The priority application deadline is February 1st of each year for admission the following fall semester.  Students are admitted once per year. 

The requirements for full standing admission include:

• A completed application
• Have a master's degree in counseling, or a closely related field that closely aligns with CACREP standards.  Graduates from CACREP accredited programs receive preference.  Students with master's degrees from non-CACREP accredited programs may be considered, but they must meet all CACREP requirements for a master's degree prior to taking related core doctoral classes.
• Curriculum vitae or resume
• Personal and professional references
• A detailed statement of purpose

Applications for domestic students can be obtained online at: https://www.ndsu.edu/gradschool/apply/domestic_and_permanent_resident

Applications for international students can be obtained online at: https://www.ndsu.edu/gradschool/apply/international

Admission Criteria

In order to be considered for admission to the program, applicants must:

• Meet graduate school minimum requirements for admission and have evidence of academic aptitude for doctoral-level study.
• Have a master's degree in counseling, or a closely related field that closely aligns with CACREP standards.  Graduates from CACREP accredited programs receive preference.  Students with master's degrees from non-CACREP accredited programs may be considered, but they must meet all CACREP requirements for a master's degree prior to taking related core doctoral classes.
• Previous professional experience.
• Show evidence of fitness for the counseling profession, including self-awareness and emotional stability during interactions with faculty and other students that occur in the interview process.
• Show evidence of excellent oral and written communication skills, and professional potential by submitting a statement of purpose essay.  The applicant's statement of purpose should address: (1) goals for obtaining a doctoral degree, (2) professional experience, (3) research interests, and (4) potential for scholarship, professional leadership, and advocacy.
• Show evidence of cultural sensitivity and awareness.
• Understand and comply with the American Counseling Code of Ethics (or ASCA ethical standards where appropriate).
• Sign a disclosure statement regarding activities which may be deemed inappropriate by professional and/or ethical standards.
• Complete all international student requirements, where appropriate.

Admission Interview

If NDSU Counselor Education faculty members deem a prospective doctoral student's application promising, the faculty members will invite the applicant to a required on-campus interview session with other applicants.  The doctoral admission interview session will take place during the spring semester.  Distance interviews can be arranged as needed.  After this interview, admission decisions will be finalized.