Graduate Psychology Application Information - Requirements
The Department of Psychology has several Ph.D Areas of Specialization (Behavioral Analysis, Clinical, Cognition, Developmental, Neuroscience, Social) and Emphasis (Developmental Psychopathology). A student is ultimately accepted into an Area or Specialization. However, all students complete the same general requirements for admission.
Coursework Required for Admission Consideration: Applicants to the doctoral program must hold a B.A. or B.S. degree and must have completed at least four 3-credit courses in Psychology, including one laboratory course in Psychology or a research methods course in Psychology. In addition, a Natural Sciences laboratory course is recommended and a Statistics course is required.
Applications are accepted in paper form or electronically. To apply electronically, click here. To apply using paper, continue with the instructions below.
ALL of the following application materials MUST BE SUBMITTED TOGETHER in a single package. This package MUST be sent from you DIRECTLY to the GRADUATE PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR in the Department of Psychology (address listed below).
1. Enclose a printout of your online Temple University Application for Graduate Study ( preferred method ) or a paper application.
2. The GRE is required. Please have your GRE scores sent to Temple University electronically by ETS; our code is 2906. The minimum scores are 500 verbal, 650 quantitative, and 1150 total GRE. The GRE Subject Exam in Psychology is optional. We also require a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.25; or a minimum undergraduate GPA during the last two years of undergraduate education of 3.5; or a minimum graduate GPA of 3.25 with at least 9 credits of graduate coursework. In extenuating circumstances, we may consider applicants with a marginally deficient GPA or GRE scores.
The TOEFL is required of all applicants who are not native speakers of English, regardless of the previous language of instruction. However, applicants with an undergraduate degree conferred by an American university are exempt from the TOEFL requirements. Students who have received their undergraduate degrees from non-English-speaking institutions must demonstrate proficiency in English. TOEFL scores should be electronically sent to the institutional code 2906. The minimum TOEFL score needed for acceptance is as follows: 620 paper-based, 260 computer-based, or 105 internet-based. Individuals for whom English is not a first language must achieve a minimum score of 28 on the internet-based TOEFL speaking section or a minimum score of 55 on the Test of Spoken English.
3. Request that official transcripts covering ALL college or university work be sent directly to YOU in sealed envelopes. Enclose the academic records form.
4. Arrange for three letters of recommendation (including two major professors) from persons familiar with your abilities and scholarly potential. Request that these three letters be sent directly to YOU in sealed envelopes using the provided reference form. Have your recommenders sign their name over the back of the sealed envelope.
5. Demonstrate writing proficiency by preparing a Personal Statement that is part of the application. The Personal Statement should include information about your relevant background and experiences, your research interests, and your goals.
6. Enclose a stamped, self-addressed postcard that we may use to notify you that your application materials have been received.
7. If you applied by a paper application make sure you enclose a check for the application fee of $65 (the online application fee is $60).
8. Email (or enclose with the rest of your application materials) the three page Psychology Department Graduate Application Data Sheet to psychadm@temple.edu.