USC MAPP Online

MASTER OF SCIENCE IN APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY ONLINE

Online Master of Science in Applied Psychology Admissions Criteria

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Admissions Overview

The Applied Psychology program is seeking students who have excelled in their academics and who show exceptional promise for professional success. While highly selective, our program includes a diverse group of students from across the U.S. with varied professional experiences.

Although there is no required major for admission to the Applied Psychology program, most of those who are admitted will have completed coursework in the social sciences. Additionally, success in the program will require a working understanding of major concepts and research methodologies associated with the study of human behavior. Students with interdisciplinary backgrounds are also appreciated for their unique contributions to the classroom.

To initiate your application, please contact an Enrollment Advisor by calling us at 888-836-4681 or reaching out via email at admissions@appliedpsychologydegree.usc.edu.

Admission Requirements:

  • USC Application: Please complete all fields of the application, including paying the $90 non-refundable application fee.
  • Transcripts: Official transcripts from all colleges, universities, and other post-secondary institutions previously attended are required. Transcripts and other academic records must be issued directly by the registrar’s office of your previous school(s) and bear the official registrar’s stamp/signature. They must be sent directly to your Enrollment Advisor as anything received by the applicant first is considered unofficial.
  • Personal Statement: Personal statements are used to evaluate your personal and professional experiences and your ability to effectively and clearly communicate ideas. Please submit an essay answering the following questions:
    • How does your background, experiences and interests lead you to seek ways to apply psychology in organizations for the benefit of consumers or employees?
    • Why do you believe the USC MAPP program can help you achieve your career goals?
    • Your essay should be 750 words maximum and be submitted as a single document.
  • Three Letters of Recommendation:
    • At least one recommendation should come from an individual who has been a supervisor in an employment setting or leadership activity and who knows you well.
    • Recommendations should be from professional and academic sources only.
  • Resume: Please submit a current professional resume that highlights your academic achievements, work history and skills.
  • Enrollment Deposit: If you are admitted into the Master in Applied Psychology program at USC, students are required to pay a non-refundable commitment deposit of $500 to reserve their spot in the incoming class. This deposit is credited towards tuition upon registering for classes.

Academic Calendar

Summer 2024

Term Start Date: Summer
May 13, 2024

Fall 2024

Application Deadline: Fall
July 29, 2024

Term Start Date: Fall
September 2, 2024

Tuition & Financial Aid

Per Unit Cost: $2,244*
Total Tuition Cost: $76,296 (34 units)*

*Transfer credits are not accepted for this program. Tuition is subject to change each academic year. Tuition is based on a full-time student’s course load.

The ability to pay for your education is always an important consideration. Many organizations offer tuition assistance to employees and, in some cases, cover 100 percent of tuition costs. Programs and policies vary among employers. Consult your human resources office to learn more about tuition assistance at your organization.

Many options are available to fund your graduate education. The USC Financial Aid Office administers federal and private programs to assist you.

For more information on applying for financial aid, please visit USC Financial Aid.