Qualifying Exams

All students are required to successfully pass a practice and research qualifying examination which is taken some time after completion of the second-year research project, but no later than the spring semester of the student's fourth year of study. These examinations are designed to adhere to and reflect the scientist-practitioner approach to counseling psychology by emphasizing clear and cogent linkages among observation and inference, theory and practice. In the practice portion of the exam five core areas of counseling psychology are assessed: (1) counseling theory and practice, (2) vocational counseling and career development, (3) research issues, (4) multicultural and diversity issues, and (5) professional and ethical issues. The research portion of the exam consists of writing a research project in the area of interest to the student. The evaluation of the qualifying exam is designed to provide a constructive learning experience. Details concerning the format, time sequence and grading of the qualifying exam are outlined in the Counseling Psychology Handbook.

Annual Report and Qualifying Examination Portfolio

Statement of Purpose: All students who are beginning their matriculation in 2024 or later are rquired to complete a portfolio. The portfolio will be developed in an ongoing manner throughout the graduate counseling program, and is used periodically as a tool for reflection, evaluation, and feedback. Successful completion of the assessment components of the portfolio process serves as benchmarks during graduate study. The overall purpose is to collect and combine examples of experience and mastery with reflection on their meaning or significance. Reviewing one's strengths and areas of growth setting goals for needed learning, pursuing a learning strategy, and regular evaluation of progress are all important steps in engaging with the learning process at the graduate level. Developing a portfolio is a vehicle for this engagement. The process of portfolio development also provides opportunities for regular faculty evaluation and feedback for each student in a manner which includes dialogue between faculty members and students throughout the course of study. The counseling program requirements focus elements of the portfolio into a coherent process that (1) facilitates students' intentional shaping of their learning, (2) provides for regular faculty feedback, (3) serves as "marker events" during graduate studies, and (4) provides a format for presentation of professional qualifications. See the Documents page for a copy of the portfolio outline.

Elements of the portfolio will be turned in each year and utilized as the student's annual review of progress in the program. During the 4th year of study, or earlier for students with Master's degrees, the final product will be turned in and will serve as the student's qualifying examination. Once completion of all milestones as reviewed by relevant faculty is determined to be successful the student will be recommended for candidacy with the graduate school. 

The Counseling Psychology Program has made the necessary changes to be in compliance with Texas Senate Bill 17 regarding diversity, equity and inclusion. More information can be found here.

Link to APA Student Admissions, Outcomes, and Other Data

Public Disclosure: Professional Licensure by State

The Texas Tech University Counseling Psychology Program is required to publicly disclose to prospective and currently enrolled students whether our program meets the education requirements for licensure or certification for all 50 states, District of Columbia, and specified U.S. territories. Our program is responsible for determining whether our academic program meets applicable state education requirements for professional licensure or certification. See the TTU Counseling Psychology Program's Professional Licensure by State Table.

Additional Information that May Be of Interest to Prospective Students

APA Accredited, Next Review: 2033

Contact Information for Accrediting Association: