The Chicago School

Highlights

• Oldest and largest graduate school focusing entirely on psychology and related behavioral sciences
• School reports instructors are renowned experts in their fields
• Offers real-world experiences
• Provides on-campus and online programs
• Accreditation has been provided by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

About the School

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is a private, not-for-profit school. The institution began offering classes in 1980. The school offers on-campus and online certification, master's and doctoral degree programs in specialty areas in the field of psychology. The institution utilizes the Chicago Model of Education which incorporates a commitment to engaging the community and social change at the systems-level.

Students are provided clinical training, applied research experience and community service. The programs offer real-world training at a variety of settings including hospitals, social service agencies, schools and mental health centers. All the programs have been designed to accommodate students who have career demands and other obligations.

Academic Programs

A collection of the programs available are shown below:

• Psychology - Child and Adolescent Psychology Master's degree – Trains students in addressing child and adolescent psychological and behavioral issues. A solid foundation is provided in addictive disorders, family systems and the legal aspects of mental health.
• Psychology - Gerontology Master's degree – Students are trained to effectively care for seniors by comprehending their psychosocial, psychological and physical needs. The program also covers assessing and counseling aging populations.
• International Psychology – Examines the various aspects of international psychology in an era of globalization. A thorough review is provided in topics such as international psychology of gender, psychology of cultures and stereotyping.
• Psychology - Organizational Leadership Master's Degree – Evaluates leadership from the behavioral and psychological perspectives. The goal of the program is to train students to be effective leaders in all organizational settings.
• Sport & Science Psychology Master's degree – Students are offered a strong foundation in the techniques of serving the psychological needs of sports teams and athletes. Students also learn to create exercise regimes and improve athletic performance.
• International Psychology Doctorate program – Offers concentrations in the subjects of organization and systems, which is provided online, and trauma services which combines online classes and on-campus and field experiences.
• Organizational Leadership Doctorate program – Training is provided in research, leadership, interpersonal dynamics and ethics. A wide range of elective classes are also provided. Two brief residencies are included in the curriculum.

Learning Options

• On campus programs
• Online programs
• Offers programs that combine on-campus and online learning

Faculty

According to the school the instructors are renowned experts in their fields. Also, the faculty members offer students ongoing professional and personal mentorship.

Student Life

Many of the students have part-time or full-time jobs. Graduate assistant programs are available in a variety of fields that pay students an hourly rate. In addition, the career services department offers a variety of assistance to students and graduates.

Admissions and Financial Aid

Candidates are required to have a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and meet other requirements which depend on the desired program. The Financial Aid Office personnel are available to help students find financial assistance opportunities. Scholarships and fellowships are also available. Financial aid staff members provide seminars which review a variety of financial aid topics. They're also available to answer questions via the school's online chat program.