Admission Requirements

Discover the admission requirements for each of the programs offered at Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology below.

Education Master's Programs

MA in Teaching (with preliminary teaching credential)

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

To apply for this program, please submit:

1. Your application for admission with a nonrefundable processing fee.

2. Transcript(s)- Official transcript sent electronically via one of the approved companies listed below from the institution that awarded the baccalaureate degree to the applicant. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial admissions review; however, official transcripts must be received to complete an applicant’s file and enroll in the subsequent term.

Electronic Transcript(s) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu
Official transcript(s) may be sent from one of the following approved companies:
Hard-copy Transcript(s), in a sealed and stamped envelope, mailed to:

Pepperdine University-GSEP
5th Floor- Enrollment Processing
6100 Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

Note: State Law prohibits Pepperdine University from accepting a BA Degree in Education for applicants who wish to pursue a Single Subject Credential. Applicants with a BA Degree in Education will only be able to pursue a Multiple Subject Credential.

3. Two recommendations must be submitted directly from individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic or professional competencies, character, and potential to complete rigorous graduate studies. Academic recommendations from professors, instructors, or academic advisors; or professional recommendations from supervisors for employment, volunteer work, internship, or related activity satisfy this requirement. If you are a recent college graduate, you should have at least one academic recommendation. If you graduated from college more than three years ago, you should use professional recommendations. The online Recommendation Form should be emailed by your recommender to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

4. A two-to-three-page statement of purpose addressing the following areas:

Discuss your motivations for applying to the Master of Arts in Teaching program and how the program aligns with your future aspirations
Highlight important elements of your personal, cultural, academic, or professional background that provide insight into your potential to succeed in an intensive graduate program and how
engagement with cultural diversity and social justice or plans for growth in these areas support your plans as a future teacher
Explain how your values align with the mission and vision of the Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology.

Email to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu if not included in your online application.

5. A signed Statement of Responsibility Form emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

6. CBEST - The recent passage of SB 153 allows candidates to use their bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education as a demonstration of subject matter. Candidates in most credential programs will no longer need to provide additional evidence of competence in basic skills if they hold a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.

7. Completion of the California Subject Examination for Teachers (CSET) or verify subject matter competence by the end of the first term*. CSET test scores are valid for 10 years and must be current in order for a candidate to be eligible for student teaching. Applicants who have successfully completed a Commission-approved Subject Matter Equivalency program must obtain a Subject Matter Equivalency letter from the college or university. The original Subject Matter Equivalency letter will be accepted in lieu of the CSET. Coursework submitted to satisfy the CSET will be verified by the Credentialing Department upon acceptance and submission of tuition deposit. Please note that at this time, Pepperdine University is only authorized by the CTC to formally evaluate coursework for the English CSET and can only provide estimates for other subject areas.

8. Your California Certificate of Character Clearance (COC) must be completed prior to admission to the Master of Arts in Teaching program. Note: State Law prohibits Pepperdine University from accepting a BA Degree in Education if a candidate pursues a Single Subject Teaching Credential in the MA in Teaching Program.

9. Current TB test results.

10. A personal interview may be required.

(Optional) If your baccalaureate or master's degree GPA is lower than 3.0 or you're seeking an exception to our GRE or TOEFL/IELTS test requirements, please fill out this Exception Request Form and email it to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

*Graduate students will be admitted and allowed to enroll in the MA in Teaching program without the completion of the CSET, with an understanding that if they do not successfully complete the CSET by the end of their first term, they will no longer be allowed to continue in the MA in Teaching program until which time they have successfully completed the CSET.

International Student Requirements:

All applicants who received or will receive their degree from a university outside of the US (unless the degree is from a university which is already regionally accredited within the US) are required to submit a detailed foreign transcript evaluation report from any National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) member.

Please note, the California Commission on Teaching Credentialing does not accept all NACES member evaluation services. For this reason, for the MA in Teaching program application we strongly recommend using only the following evaluation services:

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report must contain the following:

Official foreign transcripts translated into English.
A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average converted or calculated on a US 4.0 scale.
A determination of US degree equivalency (regional accreditation equivalency is required)

If you are attending school outside of the US and have not completed your bachelor's degree at the time of application, we would need your current “in progress” NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an official, updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your full and complete final courses, final cumulative GPA equivalency and US degree equivalency.

Please have the evaluation service, send your updated evaluation to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

Note: International applicants to GSEP whose native language is not English are required to provide evidence of English proficiency. You must submit a test score for the Internet-Based Test (IBT) of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination taken in the last two years with a minimum score of 85. Information concerning the availability of this test outside of the US can be obtained by contacting TOEFL, Educational Testing Services, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA or online. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 7 on the IELTS exam taken within the last two years. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

To apply for this program, please submit:

1. Your application for admission with a nonrefundable processing fee.

2. Transcript(s)- Official transcript sent electronically via one of the approved companies listed on the GSEP website from the institution that awarded the baccalaureate degree to the applicant. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial admissions review; however, official transcripts must be received to complete an applicant’s file and enroll in the subsequent term.

Electronic Transcript(s) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu
Official transcript(s) may be sent from one of the following approved companies:
Hard-copy Transcript(s), in a sealed and stamped envelope, mailed to:

Pepperdine University-GSEP
5th Floor- Enrollment Processing
6100 Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

3. Two letters of recommendation submitted directly from an individual familiar with the applicant’s academic or professional competencies, character, and potential to complete rigorous graduate studies. Academic recommendations from professors, instructors, or academic advisors; or professional recommendations from supervisors for employment, volunteer work, internship, or related activity satisfy this requirement. If you are a recent college graduate, you should have at least one academic recommendation. If you graduated from college more than three years ago, you should use professional recommendations. The online Recommendation Form should be emailed by your recommender to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

4. A two-to-three-page statement of educational purpose addressing the following areas:

Discuss your motivation for applying to the MA in TESOL program and how the program aligns with your future aspirations
Highlight important elements of your personal, cultural, academic, or professional background that provide insight into your potential to succeed in a graduate program and beyond
Explain how your values align with the mission and vision of the Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology

The statement can be emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu if not included in your online application.

5. A personal interview may be required.

International Student Requirements:

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report must contain the following:

Official foreign transcripts translated into English.
A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average converted or calculated on a US 4.0 scale.
A determination of US degree equivalency (regional accreditation equivalency is required)

Please have the evaluation service, send your updated evaluation to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

MA in Social Entrepreneurship and Change

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

To apply for this program, please submit:

1. Your application for admission with a nonrefundable processing fee

2. Transcript(s)- Official transcript sent electronically via one of the approved companies listed below. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial admissions review; however, official transcripts must be received to complete an applicant’s file and enroll in the subsequent term.

Electronic Transcript(s) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu
Official transcript(s) may be sent from one of the following approved companies:
Hard-copy Transcript(s), in a sealed and stamped envelope, mailed to:

Pepperdine University-GSEP
5th Floor- Enrollment Processing
6100 Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

3. Two letters of recommendation submitted directly from individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic or professional competencies, character, and potential to complete rigorous graduate studies. Academic recommendations from professors, instructors, or academic advisors; or professional recommendations from supervisors for employment, volunteer work, internship, or related activity satisfy this requirement. If you are a recent college graduate, you should have at least one academic recommendation. If you graduated from college more than three years ago, you should use professional recommendations. The online Recommendation Form should be emailed by your recommender to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

4. A two-to three-page statement of educational purpose addressing the following areas:

Discuss your motivations for applying to the MA in Social Entrepreneurship and Change Program and how the program aligns with your professional goals and objectives
Highlight elements of your personal, cultural, academic, and professional background, providing details about your potential to succeed in the program
Explain your passion for addressing a social issue important to you, expanding on your mission and vision, work, or volunteer experience with diverse populations

Email the statement to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu if not included in your online application.

5. A personal interview may be required.

(Optional) Your professional CV or resume emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

International Student Requirements:

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report must contain the following:

Official foreign transcripts translated into English.
A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average converted or calculated on a US 4.0 scale.
A determination of US degree equivalency (regional accreditation equivalency is required)

Please have the evaluation service, send your updated evaluation to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

Online Education Master's Programs

MS in Education

Applicants to the online format may possess a bachelor's degree in any field, and there are no pre-requisite courses that must be completed prior to starting the program.

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

Visit our Online Education Program Application Requirements page for further details.

MA in Teaching

Pepperdine University’s online Master of Arts in Teaching program is always looking for future educators who are passionate about inspiring positive change in the classroom and in their local communities.

A bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA is required to apply
GRE/GMAT scores are not required
Application fee waivers are available

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

Visit our Online Education Program Application Requirements page for further details.

Education Doctoral Programs

EdD in Learning Technologies

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

To apply for this program, please submit:

1. Application for admission with a nonrefundable processing fee.

2. A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution.

3. A master's or doctorate degree from a regionally accredited institution.

4. Transcript(s)- Official transcripts sent electronically via one of the approved companies listed below from the institutions that awarded the baccalaureate and master’s degrees to the applicant as well as all transcripts from all other colleges or universities attended. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial admissions review; however official transcripts must be received to complete your student file.

Electronic Transcript(s) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu
Official transcript(s) may be sent from one of the following approved companies:

Hard-copy Transcript(s), in a sealed and stamped envelope, mailed to:

Pepperdine University-GSEP
5th Floor- Enrollment Processing
6100 Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

5. Two recommendations submitted directly from individuals that attest to the applicant’s academic and/or professional character and leadership experience and/or potential. Academic recommendations from professors, instructors, or academic advisors; or professional recommendations from supervisors for employment, volunteer work, internship, or related activity satisfy this requirement. The online Recommendation Form should be emailed by your recommender to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

6. A 1,000- to 2,000-word applicant statement of interest in the EDD program addressing such topics as the candidate’s view of leadership, ability to develop followers, evidence of a purposeful research agenda, perseverance and demonstrated achievements, future career and life objectives, and reasons for pursuing a doctorate degree emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

7. Your professional CV or resume emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

8. A personal and/or group interview with a program director or designee is required for qualified applicants who apply to the program.

9. A writing sample and/or critical thinking assessment may be assigned to a candidate before potential admission at the discretion of the program director.

If your baccalaureate or master's degree GPA is lower than 3.0 or you're seeking an exception to our TOEFL/IELTS test requirements, please fill out this Exception Request Form and email it to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

International Student Requirements:

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report must contain the following:

Official foreign transcripts translated into English.
A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average converted or calculated on a US 4.0 scale.
A determination of US degree equivalency (regional accreditation equivalency is required)

Please have the evaluation service, send your updated evaluation to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

EdD in Organizational Leadership

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

To apply for this program, please submit:

1. Application for admission with a nonrefundable processing fee.

2. A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution.

3. A master's or doctorate degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Electronic Transcript(s) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu
Official transcript(s) may be sent from one of the following approved companies:
Hard-copy Transcript(s), in a sealed and stamped envelope, mailed to:

Pepperdine University-GSEP
5th Floor- Enrollment Processing
6100 Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

6 A 1,000- to-2,000-word applicant statement of interest in the EDD program addressing such topics as the candidate’s view of leadership, ability to develop followers, evidence of a purposeful research agenda, perseverance and demonstrated achievements, future career and life objectives, and reasons for pursuing a doctorate degree emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

7. Your professional CV or resume emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

8. A personal and/or group interview with a program director or designee is required for qualified applicants who apply to the program.

9. A writing sample and/or critical thinking assessment may be assigned to a candidate before potential admission at the discretion of the program director.

International Student Requirements:

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report must contain the following:

Official foreign transcripts translated into English.
A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average converted or calculated on a US 4.0 scale.
A determination of US degree equivalency (regional accreditation equivalency is required)

Please have the evaluation service, send your updated evaluation to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

EdD in Educational Leadership Pre-K to 12

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

To apply for this program, please submit:

1. Application for admission with a nonrefundable processing fee.

2. A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution.

3. A master's or doctorate degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Electronic Transcript(s) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu
Official transcript(s) may be sent from one of the following approved companies:
Hard-copy Transcript(s), in a sealed and stamped envelope, mailed to:

Pepperdine University-GSEP
5th Floor- Enrollment Processing
6100 Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

6. A 1,000- to-2,000-word applicant statement of interest in the EDD program addressing such topics as the candidate’s view of leadership, ability to develop followers, evidence of a purposeful research agenda, perseverance and demonstrated achievements, future career and life objectives, and reasons for pursuing a doctorate degree emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

7. Your professional CV or resume emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

8. A personal and/or group interview with a program director or designee is required for qualified applicants who apply to the program.

9. A writing sample and/or critical thinking assessment may be assigned to a candidate before potential admission at the discretion of the program director.

International Student Requirements:

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report must contain the following:

Official foreign transcripts translated into English.
A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average converted or calculated on a US 4.0 scale.
A determination of US degree equivalency (regional accreditation equivalency is required)

Please have the evaluation service, send your updated evaluation to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

PhD in Global Leadership and Change

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

To apply for this program, please submit:

1. Application for admission with a nonrefundable processing fee.

2. A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution.

3. A master's or doctorate degree from a regionally accredited institution.

Electronic Transcript(s) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu
Official transcript(s) may be sent from one of the following approved companies:
Hard-copy Transcript(s), in a sealed and stamped envelope, mailed to:

Pepperdine University-GSEP
5th Floor- Enrollment Processing
6100 Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

6. A 1,000- to 2,000-word applicant statement of interest in the PhD program addressing such topics as the candidate’s view of leadership, ability to develop followers, evidence of a purposeful research agenda, perseverance and demonstrated achievements, future career and life objectives, and reasons for pursuing a doctorate degree emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

7. Your professional CV or resume emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

8. A personal and/or group interview with a program director or designee is required for qualified applicants who apply to the program.

9. A writing sample and/or critical thinking assessment may be assigned to a candidate before potential admission at the discretion of the program director.

(Optional) - A verified record of academic written and presented research submitted via the PhD Research Experience Form on the online application.

For current GSEP EdD students and alumni only: Current GSEP EdD students and EdD alumni who have graduated in the last seven years may transfer up to 39 EdD units to the PhD in Global Leadership and Change program. The final decision of transfer is recommended in conjunction with a committee appointed by the program director which includes committee members and the director of student success, or designee. This committee will make the final recommendation to the Admission Office based upon analysis of official transcripts, syllabi, and other relevant material submitted by the candidate.

International Student Requirements:

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report must contain the following:

Official foreign transcripts translated into English.
A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average converted or calculated on a US 4.0 scale.
A determination of US degree equivalency (regional accreditation equivalency is required)

Please have the evaluation service, send your updated evaluation to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

Psychology Master's Programs

MA in Psychology

To apply for this program, the following is required:

Application Form
Bachelor's Degree
Transcripts
Letters of Recommendation
Statement of Purpose
A personal interview may be required

Domestic Students

Application Form

The application form is quick and easy, taking less than 15 minutes to complete.

Bachelor's Degree

Applicants to this program may possess a bachelor's degree in any field. Applicants without recent course work in psychology within the last seven years, however, will be required to complete foundational courses in preparation for the core curriculum. Foundation courses are offered as part of the master's program.

Transcripts

For domestic students, transcripts from the regionally accredited colleges or universities that awarded your baccalaureate degree may be sent through one of the methods noted below. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial admissions review; however, official transcripts must be received to complete an applicant’s file and enroll in the subsequent term.

Electronic Transcript(s) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.
Official transcript(s) may be sent from one of the following approved companies:

Hard-copy Transcript(s), in a sealed and stamped envelope, must be mailed to:

Pepperdine University-GSEP
5th Floor- Enrollment Processing
6100 Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

Letters of Recommendation

Two recommendations must be submitted directly from individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic or professional competencies. Academic recommendations from professors, instructors, or academic advisors; or professional recommendations from supervisors for employment, volunteer work, internship, or related activity satisfy this requirement. The online Recommendation Form should be emailed by your recommender to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

Statement of Purpose

You must submit a two-to-five-page typed statement of purpose describing previous training and experience, current interests, engagement with cultural diversity and social justice plus plans for growth in these areas, future professional goals, and reasons for applying to the program, emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu if not included in your online application.

Exception Request

If your baccalaureate or master's degree GPA is lower than 3.0, please fill out this Exception Request Form and email it to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

International Students

Application Form

The application form is quick and easy, taking less than 15 minutes to complete.

Bachelor's Degree

Transcripts

All applicants who received or will receive their degree from a university outside of the US (unless the degree is from a university that is already regionally accredited within the US) are required to submit a detailed foreign transcript evaluation report from any National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) member, such as the International Education Research Foundation or the World Education Services, Inc.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report must contain the following:

Official foreign transcripts translated into English.
A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average converted or calculated on a US 4.0 scale.
A determination of US degree equivalency (regional accreditation equivalency is required)

If you are attending school outside of the US and have not completed your bachelor's degree at the time of application, we would need your current “in progress” NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide official, updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your full and complete final courses, final cumulative GPA equivalency and US degree equivalency.

Please have the evaluation service, send your updated evaluation to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

Letters of Recommendation

Statement of Purpose

TOEFL or IELTS Exam

International applicants to GSEP whose native language is not English are required to provide evidence of English proficiency. You must submit a test score for the Internet-Based Test (IBT) of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination taken in the last two years with a minimum score of 85. Information concerning the availability of this test outside of the US can be obtained by contacting TOEFL, Educational Testing Services, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA or online. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at
least 7 on the IELTS exam taken within the last two years. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

Exception Request

If your baccalaureate or master's degree GPA is lower than 3.0 or you're seeking an exception to our TOEFL/IELTS test requirement, please fill out this Exception Request Form and email it to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

MA in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy - Day Format

For the daytime format, a bachelor's degree in psychology is preferred. For applicants who did not major or minor in psychology or a closely related field, enough psychology classes should be taken to constitute a minor in psychology. These applicants would need to take the following undergraduate-level classes for a grade from a regionally accredited institution:

Abnormal Psychology
Behavioral Principles and Theories of Learning. Cognitive Psychology, or Clinical or Counseling Psychology)
Intro or General Psychology
Human Development (or Lifespan Development or Child Development)
Research Methods (or Statistics) in Psychology or Social Sciences

If courses are being completed at the time of application, applicants should submit proof of registration for the courses with their application materials. Additionally, taking these courses is not a guarantee that an applicant will be admitted to the program.

In an effort to process your application quickly, we recommend you send your materials electronically.

For questions, contact Enrollment Officer Kelley Hill at kelley.hill@pepperdine.edu.

To apply for this program, please submit:

1. Your application for admission with a nonrefundable processing fee.

2. For domestic students, an official transcript sent electronically via one of the approved companies listed on the GSEP website from the institution that awarded the baccalaureate degree to the applicant as well as transcripts from all other colleges or universities attended for 12 or more units or containing any psychology classes. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial admissions review; however, official transcripts must be received to complete an applicant’s file and enroll in the subsequent term.

Electronic Transcript(s) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu
Official transcript(s) may be sent from one of the following approved companies:
Hard-copy Transcript(s), in a sealed and stamped envelope, mailed to:

Pepperdine University-GSEP
5th Floor- Enrollment Processing
6100 Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

If you have any questions regarding transcript processing please contact us at 310.258.2850 or gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

3. Two recommendations from individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic or professional competencies. Academic recommendations from professors, instructors, or academic advisors; or professional recommendations from supervisors for employment, volunteer work, internship, or related activity satisfy this requirement. The online Recommendation Form should be emailed by your recommender to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

4. A two- to-five-page typed statement of purpose describing 1) previous training and experience, 2) current interests, 3) engagement with cultural diversity and social justice plus plans for growth in these areas, 4) future professional goals, and 5) reasons for applying to the program. Please use subheadings for each of these numbered items. The statement of purpose should be emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu if not included in your online application.

5. The Graduate Record Examination (General Test), taken within the last five years is still required. However, a waiver request form is available.

(Optional) If you're seeking an exception to our TOEFL/IELTS or GRE test requirements, please fill out this Exception Request Form and email it to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

International Student Requirements

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report must contain the following:

Official foreign transcripts translated into English.
A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average converted or calculated on a US 4.0 scale.
A determination of US degree equivalency (regional accreditation equivalency is required)

Please have the evaluation service, send your updated evaluation to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

Note: International applicants to GSEP whose native language is not English are required to provide evidence of English proficiency. You must submit a test score for the Internet-Based Test (IBT) of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination taken in the last two years with a minimum score of 85. Information concerning the availability of this test outside of the US can be obtained by contacting TOEFL, Educational Testing Services, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA or online. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 7 on the IELTS exam taken within the last two years. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

If you have any questions regarding the application requirements, please contact Kelley Hill at kelley.hill@pepperdine.edu or 310.568.5664.

MA in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy - Evening Format

Applicants to the evening format may possess a bachelor's degree in any field, and there are no pre-requisite courses that must be completed prior to starting the program. Applicants without recent course work (within the last seven years) in psychology, however, will be required to complete foundation courses in preparation for the core curriculum. Foundation courses are offered as part of the master's program.

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

To apply for this program, please submit:

1. Your application for admission with a nonrefundable processing fee.

2. Transcript(s)- For domestic students, transcripts from the regionally accredited colleges or universities that awarded your baccalaureate degree may be sent through one of the methods noted below. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial admissions review; however, official transcripts must be received to complete an applicant’s file and enroll in the subsequent term.

Electronic Transcript(s) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu

Official transcript(s) may be sent from one of the following approved companies:
Hard-copy Transcript(s), in a sealed and stamped envelope, mailed to:

Pepperdine University-GSEP
5th Floor- Enrollment Processing
6100 Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

3. Two recommendations submitted directly from individuals familiar with the applicant’s academic or professional competencies. Academic recommendations from professors, instructors, or academic advisors; or professional recommendations from supervisors for employment, volunteer work, internship, or related activity satisfy this requirement. The online Recommendation Form should be emailed by your recommender to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

4. A two-to-five-page typed statement of purpose describing previous training and experience, current interests, engagement with cultural diversity and social justice plus plans for growth in these areas, future professional goals, and reasons for applying to the program, emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu if not included in your online application.

5. A personal interview may be required.

(Optional) If your baccalaureate or master's degree GPA is lower than 3.0 or you're seeking an exception to our TOEFL/IELTS test requirement, please fill out this Exception Request Form and email it to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

International Student Requirements

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report must contain the following:

Official foreign transcripts translated into English.
A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average converted or calculated on a US 4.0 scale.
A determination of US degree equivalency (regional accreditation equivalency is required)

If you are attending school outside of the US and have not completed your bachelor's degree at the time of application, we would need your current “in progress” NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an official, updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your ffull and complete final courses, final cumulative GPA equivalency and US degree equivalency.

Please have the evaluation service, send your updated evaluation to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

Note: International applicants to GSEP whose native language is not English are required to provide evidence of English proficiency. You must submit a test score for the Internet-Based Test (IBT) of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination taken in the last two years with a minimum score of 85. Information concerning the availability of this test outside of the US can be obtained by contacting TOEFL, Educational Testing Services, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA or online. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 7 on the IELTS exam taken within the last two years. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

MA in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy with Latinx Communities

Applicants to the Latinas/os emphasis may possess a bachelor's degree in any field, and there are no prerequisite courses that must be completed prior to starting the program. Applicants without recent course work (within the last seven years) in psychology, however, will be required to complete foundational courses in preparation for the core curriculum. Foundational courses are offered as part of the master's program.

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

To apply for this program, please submit:

1. Your application for admission with a nonrefundable processing fee.

2. For domestic students, transcripts from the regionally accredited colleges or universities that awarded your baccalaureate degree may be sent through one of the methods noted below. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial admissions review; however, official transcripts must be received to complete an applicant’s file and enroll in the subsequent term.

Electronic Transcript(s) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu
Official transcript(s) may be sent from one of the following approved companies:
Hard-copy Transcript(s), in a sealed and stamped envelope, mailed to:

Pepperdine University-GSEP
5th Floor- Enrollment Processing
6100 Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

4. A two-to-five-page typed statement of purpose that serves as an autobiographical description of previous training and experience, current interests, future professional goals, and reasons for applying to the program. It should include how experiences, interests, and goals relate to working with the Latinx communities. The statement of purpose should be emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu if not included in your online application.

Note: After the initial screening of the applications, the remaining candidates will be invited for interviews with the Program Director. Special arrangements for telephone interviews may be made for applicants who reside outside the Southern California area. Admission decisions are based on an entire mosaic of requirements rather than on any single factor.

International Student Requirements

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report must contain the following:

Official foreign transcripts translated into English.
A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average converted or calculated on a US 4.0 scale.
A determination of US degree equivalency (regional accreditation equivalency is required)

Please have the evaluation service, send your updated evaluation to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

Note:

International applicants to GSEP whose native language is not English are required to provide evidence of English proficiency. You must submit a test score for the Internet-Based Test (IBT) of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination taken in the last two years with a minimum score of 85. Information concerning the availability of this test outside of the US can be obtained by contacting TOEFL, Educational Testing Services, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA or online. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 7 on the IELTS exam taken within the last two years. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

MS in Applied Behavior Analysis

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

To apply for this program, please submit:

1. Your application for admission with a nonrefundable processing fee.

2. Transcript(s)- Official transcript sent electronically via one of the approved companies listed on the GSEP website from the institution that awarded the baccalaureate degree to the applicant. Applicants to this program may possess a bachelor’s degree in any field. Applicants without recent coursework in psychology within the last seven years, however, will be required to complete foundational courses in preparation for the core curriculum. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for initial admissions review; however, official transcripts must be received to complete an applicant’s file and enroll in the subsequent term.

Electronic Transcript(s) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu
Official transcript(s) may be sent from one of the following approved companies:
Hard-copy Transcript(s), in a sealed and stamped envelope, mailed to:

Pepperdine University-GSEP
5th Floor- Enrollment Processing
6100 Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

4. A two- to five-page typed statement of purpose that serves as an autobiographical description of previous training and experience, current interests, engagement with cultural diversity and social justice plus plans for growth in these areas, future professional goals, and reasons for applying to the program, emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu if not included in your online application.

5. A personal interview may be required.

International Student Requirements:

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report must contain the following:

Official foreign transcripts translated into English.
A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average converted or calculated on a US 4.0 scale.
A determination of US degree equivalency (regional accreditation equivalency is required)

If you are attending school outside of the US and have not completed your bachelor's degree at the time of application, we would need your current “in progress” NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an official, updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your full and completefinal courses, final cumulative GPA equivalency and US degree equivalency.

Please have the evaluation service, send your updated evaluation to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

Note: International applicants to GSEP whose native language is not English are required to provide evidence of English proficiency. You must submit a test score for the Internet-Based Test (IBT) of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination taken in the last two years with a minimum score of 85. Information concerning the availability of this test outside of the US can be obtained by contacting TOEFL, Educational Testing Services, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA or online. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 7 on the IELTS exam taken within the last two years. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

Online Psychology Master's Programs

Online MA in Psychology

Applicants to the online format may possess a bachelor's degree in any field, and there are no pre-requisite courses that must be completed prior to starting the program. Applicants without recent course work (within the last seven years) in psychology, however, will be required to complete foundation courses in preparation for the core curriculum. Foundation courses are offered as part of the master's program.

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

Visit our Online Program Application Requirements page for further details.

Online MA in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

Visit our Online Program Application Requirements page for further details.

Online MS In Applied Behavior Analysis

For the online MS program, a bachelor's degree in psychology or related academic field (e.g. sociology, social work, child and family development) is preferred. However, applicants to the online format may possess a bachelor's degree in any field. Applicants without recent course work (within the last seven years) in psychology will be required to complete foundation courses in preparation for the core curriculum. Foundation courses are offered as part of the master's program.

In an effort to process your application quickly, we only accept electronic application materials.

Visit our Online Program Application Requirements page for further details.

Psychology Doctoral Programs

PsyD in Clinical Psychology

Applicants for the PsyD program must possess a master's degree in psychology or a closely related field that reflects a graduate-level foundation of knowledge in the following domains: biological aspects of behavior, cognitive and affective aspects of behavior, social aspects of behavior; psychological measurement, research methodology, and techniques of data analysis.

The PsyD Admissions Committee takes into consideration the breadth and depth of an applicant's foundation of general knowledge of psychology, and clinical and research experience in granting admission. A review of undergraduate and graduate transcripts, provides an assessment of an applicant's academic background. The profession of clinical psychology requires individual and interpersonal competencies in addition to academic preparation. Interpersonal attributes and skills are therefore taken into consideration in assessing an individual's qualification for admission.

To apply for this program, please submit:

1. Your application for admission with a nonrefundable processing fee, which includes a Clinical and Research Experience form.

2. For domestic students, transcripts from the regionally accredited colleges or universities that awarded your baccalaureate degree may be sent through one of the methods noted below. Official transcripts are required for admissions review and must be received to complete your student file.

Electronic Transcript(s) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu
Official transcript(s) may be sent from one of the following approved companies:
Hard-copy Transcript(s), in a sealed and stamped envelope, mailed to:

Pepperdine University-GSEP
5th Floor- Enrollment Processing
6100 Center Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

3. Two recommendations: if possible, one from a college professor familiar with the applicant’s academic performance and one from a clinical supervisor familiar with the applicant’s clinical skills. The online Recommendation Form should be emailed by your recommender to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

4. A 5-8 page autobiographical statement that addresses each of the following:(1) key life experiences (e.g., personal, family, social, educational, job, etc.) which led to your interest in clinical psychology, (2) why you believe you are a good fit for a career as a psychologist (e.g., personal qualities, values, strengths, skills, preparation, etc.), (3) current areas of scholarly and professional interest, (4) experiences and perspectives regarding any aspect(s) of your own social identities, and how diversity and culture inform your relevant professional work and future work as a clinical psychologist, (5) your reasons for applying specifically to Pepperdine's PsyD Program, and (6) your vision for your career 10 years after graduating. The personal statement can be added to your online application or emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu. Note: The statement must be written in single-space.

5. A brief résumé of professional experience both inside and outside the field of psychology (include current professional activities) emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

6. The Clinical and Research Experience form, as provided in the Application for Admission.

7. (Optional) If you're seeking an exception to our TOEFL/IELTS test requirement, please fill out this Exception Request Form and email it to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

8. (Optional) It is recommended that applicants submit course descriptions of master’s degree courses to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu to assist the PsyD admission committee in assessing the breadth and depth of the applicant’s academic preparation.

After the initial screening of the applications, the remaining candidates will be invited for interviews by the PsyD. Admissions Committee. Special arrangements for telephone interviews may be made for applicants who reside outside the Southern California area. The committee bases its decisions on an entire mosaic of requirements rather than on any single factor. Students completing their master's degree at Pepperdine University should not assume automatic admission into the doctoral program.

International Student Requirements

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report must contain the following:

Official foreign transcripts translated into English.
A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average converted or calculated on a US 4.0 scale.
A determination of US degree equivalency (regional accreditation equivalency is required)

Please have the evaluation service, send your updated evaluation to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

Note: International applicants to GSEP whose native language is not English are required to provide evidence of English proficiency. You must submit a test score for the Internet-Based Test (IBT) of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) examination taken in the last two years with a minimum score of 85. Information concerning the availability of this test outside of the US can be obtained by contacting TOEFL, Educational Testing Services, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA or online. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 7 on the IELTS exam taken within the last two years. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.