Admission Requirements

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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

• 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. One recommendation submitted directly from an individual familiar with the applicant’s competencies, character, potential, and/or ability as an educator. 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 250-500 word personal statement that reflects the applicant’s educational purpose and goals and incorporates an understanding of the Master of Arts in Teaching program mission (see the “Teacher Preparation Program Mission Statement” in this academic catalog, page 94), emailed 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. Completion of the Basic Skills Requirement (CBEST) is required by the end of the first term*. Coursework submitted to satisfy the CBEST will be verified by the Credentialing Department upon acceptance and submission of tuition deposit. Documents must be emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

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.

(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 CBEST/CSET, with an understanding that if they do not successfully complete the CBEST/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 CBEST/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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.org. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

• 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. One 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. The online Recommendation Form should be emailed by your recommender to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu. 

4. A 250-500 word statement of purpose in which the applicant discusses his or her personal and professional goals and how completing this degree will enable those goals, 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 GRE or TOEFL/IELTS test requirements, please fill out this Exception Request Form and email it to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.org. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

• 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. One recommendation submitted directly from an individual familiar with the applicant’s academic or professional competencies, character, and support in serving others. 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 250-500 word Statement of Purpose. This statement should address the following:

• Previous involvement in or interest in social change issues.
• Professional goals and objectives.
• A social issue of importance to the applicant, including reasons why there is interest in this particular issue.

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

(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.

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

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.org. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

• 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. One 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. The online Recommendation Form should be emailed by your recommender to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

4. A 250-500 word statement of purpose in which the applicant discusses his or her personal and professional goals and how completing this degree will enable those goals, 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 GRE or TOEFL/IELTS test requirements, please fill out this Exception Request Form and email it to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

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

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.org. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

• 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. One 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. The online Recommendation Form should be emailed by your recommender to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

4. A 250-500 word statement of purpose in which the applicant discusses his or her personal and professional goals and how completing this degree will enable those goals, 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 GRE or TOEFL/IELTS test requirements, please fill out this Exception Request Form and email it to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

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

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.org. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

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. One 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. The online Recommendation Form should be emailed by your recommender to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

4. A 250-500 word statement of purpose in which the applicant discusses his or her personal and professional goals and how completing this degree will enable those goals, 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 GRE or TOEFL/IELTS test requirements, please fill out this Exception Request Form and email it to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

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

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.org. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

• 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

Please request all transcripts to be sent to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

3. One 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. The online Recommendation Form should be emailed by your recommender to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

4. A 250-500 word statement of purpose in which the applicant discusses his or her personal and professional goals and how completing this degree will enable those goals, 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 GRE or TOEFL/IELTS test requirements, please fill out this Exception Request Form and email it to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

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

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.org. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

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. 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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

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 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.

4. A 1,000- to 2,000-word applicant statement of purpose 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.

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

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

7. 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:

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.org. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

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. 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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

• 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 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.

4. A 1,000- to-2,000-word applicant statement of purpose 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.

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

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

7. 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:

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.org. IELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

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. 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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

• 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 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.

4. A 1,000- to-2,000-word applicant statement of purpose 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.

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

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

7. 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:

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.orgIELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

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. 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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

• 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 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.

4. A 1,000- to 2,000-word applicant statement of purpose 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.

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

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

7. 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.

(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 Ph.D. 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:

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.orgIELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

To apply for this program, the following is required:

• Application Form
• Bachelor's Degree
• Transcripts
• Letters of Recommendation
• Statement of Purpose

Domestic Students

International Students

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

For the daytime format, a bachelor's degree in psychology is preferred. However, qualified applicants who possess a bachelor's degree in a related academic field (e.g. sociology, social work, child and family development) may also be considered.

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, 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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

• 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. See Exception Request below.  

6. B.A. or B.S. degree in psychology (or closely related field) or the equivalent of a minor in psychology (or a closely related field).

(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

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.orgIELTS 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.

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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse
  • Parchment
  • eSCRIP-SAFE
• 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 that serves as an autobiographical description of previous training and experience, current interests, future professional goals, and reasons for applying to the program, emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu if not included in your online application.

(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

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.orgIELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

• 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 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.

(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.

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

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.orgIELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

• 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 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 that serves as an autobiographical description of previous training and experience, current interests, future professional goals, and reasons for applying to the program, emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu if not included in your online application.

(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:

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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 whose native language is not English are required to submit a minimum passing score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). The computer-based TOEFL test requires a minimum passing score of 80. Information concerning the availability of this test in foreign countries can be obtained by contacting TOEFL, Educational Testing Services, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA or online at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.orgIELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.

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.

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.

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.

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, provide an assessment of an applicant's academic preparation and performance. 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.

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, 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:

  • National Student Clearinghouse

  • Parchment

  • eSCRIP-SAFE

• 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.

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. (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.

7. (Optional) Course descriptions of your master's degree courses to assist the Psy.D. Admissions Committee in assessing the breadth and depth of your academic preparation emailed to gsep-admissions@pepperdine.edu.

After the initial screening of the applications, the remaining candidates will be invited for interviews by the Psy.D. 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

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, such as the International Education Research Foundation at ierf.org or the World Education Services, Inc., at wes.org.

A detailed foreign transcript evaluation report will contain the following:

• Foreign transcripts translated into English.
• A detailed course-by-course report with the grade point average 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 NACES member international transcript evaluation (please see above for requirements). Upon degree completion, you are required to provide an updated NACES member evaluation reflecting your 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: If your first language is not English, you must submit a minimum score of 550 on the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). If taking the Internet-based TOEFL test, you will need a minimum score of 80. 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 at www.toefl.org. Our TOEFL code is 4630. As an alternative to the TOEFL, you may submit a score of at least 6.5 on the IELTS exam. You can find out more at www.ielts.orgIELTS scores can be sent electronically by choosing "Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology" from the dropdown menu.