Marquette University FAQ

Admissions requirements

What is the minimum GRE score I need to attain?

The GRE is currently optional through the duration of 2023.

Will my application still be considered if my test scores do not arrive by the specified deadline?

Yes, your application will still be considered since test scores are not required until 2023.

When will I be notified of an admission decision?

Once your application is submitted, it is routed to the academic department for review. You will receive an email to schedule an appointment within 3-7 days. Then, after your interview, you will be notified of a decision within 3-5 days.

How long does my statement of purpose need to be?

Typically statements of purpose are about 2-3 single-spaced pages.

Who should I request as references?

Letters of reference should come from those who can speak to your potential for success, such as an academic or professional source.

International students

Do you accept the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) for international students?

International students who are not currently living in the U.S. are not permitted into the program.

The TOEFL minimum score requirement is 80 with at least a score of 20 in each of the four categories. IELTS minimum score is 6.5 with at least a 6.5 in each of the four categories. Learn more.

Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) Program

What is the difference between a CMHC and a Master of Social Work (MSW)?

While there is overlap, responsibilities differ between the roles you may pursue after graduation. Clinical mental health counselors listen to and give tools to their clients to work toward personal growth, while social workers help clients address issues in addition to mental health issues, including conducting research and addressing legal issues.

Is the program CACREP-accredited?

The online program prepares students for licensure in the state of Wisconsin even though it is not CACREP-accredited. Most states don't require CACREP accreditation, nor do most counseling jobs. Every state has different requirements for licensure, however, and we encourage applicants to consult with the licensing board in their state to ensure they understand the requirements and if this program will meet those.

Is CACREP-accreditation necessary for licensure in clinical mental counseling?

No, the program is not currently CACREP-accredited. However, our program will prepare a student for licensure in Wisconsin and many other states. Wisconsin is not a state that requires a student to have graduated from a CACREP-accredited program in order to be licensed (in fact, there are only two that require this in the U.S.).

How will CACREP-accreditation impact my job possibilities?

At Marquette, we believe our online program will prepare you with the skills needed for licensure and not limit your job possibilities.

Is there a dual degree or alt pathway available for online CMHC students who would like to transition into Marquette’s PhD in Counseling Psychology following the online CMHC program?

No, there is no pathway because the programs are separate. We occasionally have students from our master's program apply to the doctoral program. Only 3-4 doctoral students are accepted per year and most of those are from other universities.

Can I work full time and complete the practicum and internship?

Working full-time while enrolled in practicum-internship is a personal choice that depends greatly on the flexibility of students’ employment, life responsibilities, number of other courses being taken simultaneously, and personal needs. Typically students are not able to work full-time because of the number of hours required during internship and the fact that these hours must be completed during the work day. We require students to prioritize practicum-internship scheduling in order to ensure they complete their required hours each semester.

Online experience

How will I interact with my cohort peers?

You will interact in our intuitive online learning system, D2L. You will have discussions with your cohort, and in five classes, you will also have synchronous learning components.

Will I be expected to log on to my computer at the same time as the other students and instructor?

The program is a combination of synchronous and asynchronous. For asynchronous courses, students are not required to be online at the same time. There are specific deadlines for assignments and discussions, but as long as you meet the deadlines, you can complete the work when it is convenient for you. For synchronous courses, you will be expected to be online at specific times each week with your instructor and peers.

Is this a self-paced program?

Courses are not self-paced but instead require all students enrolled in the course to move through the course together, meeting required deadlines and participating in required discussions.

What are the technical requirements?

Minimum computer requirements can be found here.

How much time each week should I be spending on my coursework?

The time commitment will vary based on course assignments and readings. Minimally, students should plan 4-5 hours per week per course beyond the initial review of weekly course materials.

Will I be able to access the course on my mobile device?

Yes. Many online courses are friendly to mobile devices.

Will the degree I earn be considered an online degree?

Marquette online courses have the same standing as Marquette on-campus courses.
Admissions deadlines
Jun
30
Priority application deadline
June 30
Fall 2023 term
Aug
7
Application deadline
August 7
Fall 2023 term
Aug
28
Next start
August 28
Fall 2023 term
Questions? Let’s connect.