| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Adler University is a private, not-for-profit university with a focus on social justice and community-based psychology. It has campuses in Chicago, Illinois, and Vancouver, Canada, along with online programs. The university is named after Alfred Adler, an Austrian psychiatrist known for his theories on individual psychology and social interest.
Founded: 1952 (originally as the Alfred Adler Institute)
Location: Chicago, Illinois (main U.S. campus)
Accreditation: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Focus Areas: Psychology, counseling, public policy, and leadership with a strong emphasis on social justice and community engagement
Programs Offered: Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as Clinical Psychology (Psy.D.), Counseling, Public Administration, and Industrial-Organizational Psychology
Unique Feature: Strong commitment to social responsibility, requiring students to complete community projects and internships as part of their education
Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) in Clinical Psychology
Prepares students for clinical practice with a strong foundation in social responsibility
Accredited by the American Psychological Association (APA)
Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology
Focus on workplace psychology, leadership, and employee well-being
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Meets the educational requirements for Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Illinois
M.A. in Counseling: Specialization in Forensic Psychology
Prepares students for careers in criminal justice, legal settings, and correctional facilities
M.A. in Couple and Family Therapy
Focuses on marriage, couples, and family therapy (Accredited by COAMFTE)
M.A. in Psychology
A broad program covering human behavior, mental health, and research skills
M.A. in Organizational Leadership
Designed for professionals interested in leadership roles in businesses and nonprofits
M.A. in Public Policy and Administration
Prepares students for careers in government, nonprofit organizations, and policy advocacy
M.S. in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology
Focus on workplace psychology, HR management, and organizational behavior
Adler University also offers several online programs, including:
M.A. in Psychology
M.A. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology
M.A. in Applied Psychology
M.A. in Organizational Leadership
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
2-3 years |
$43,350 |
|
M.A. in Counseling: Specialization in Forensic Psychology |
2 years |
$43,350 |
|
M.A. in Couple and Family Therapy |
2 years |
$43,350 |
|
M.A. in Psychology |
1-2 years |
$36,267 |
|
M.A. in Organizational Leadership |
1-2 years |
$36,267 |
|
M.A. in Public Policy and Administration |
1-2 years |
$36,267 |
|
M.S. in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology |
1-2 years |
$36,267 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology (APA Accredited) |
5 years |
$43,350 |
|
Ph.D. in Industrial and Organizational Psychology |
3-5 years |
$36,267 |
Completed bachelor’s degree (for master’s programs) or master’s degree (for Ph.D. programs)
Official transcripts (evaluated by a recognized agency like WES or ECE)
English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS required)
Statement of purpose (personal statement)
Letters of recommendation (2-3 depending on the program)
Resume/CV
Interview (if required for specific programs)
International students must meet English proficiency requirements:
Test |
Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL iBT |
92+ |
|
IELTS |
7.0+ |
|
Duolingo |
115+ |
Note: Some applicants may be exempt if they completed previous education in English-speaking countries.
Tuition fees are the same for both domestic and international students.
Program |
Duration |
Annual Tuition Fees (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
2-3 years |
$43,350 |
|
M.A. in Forensic Psychology |
2 years |
$43,350 |
|
M.A. in Couple and Family Therapy |
2 years |
$43,350 |
|
M.A. in Psychology |
1-2 years |
$36,267 |
|
M.A. in Organizational Leadership |
1-2 years |
$36,267 |
|
M.S. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology |
1-2 years |
$36,267 |
|
Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology |
5 years |
$43,350 |
|
Ph.D. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology |
3-5 years |
$36,267 |
Additional Costs: Living expenses in Chicago can range from $15,000 - $20,000 per year depending on housing, food, and personal expenses.
Adler University offers limited scholarships and financial aid for international students, including:
Adler University Merit Scholarships (based on academic excellence)
Diversity & Social Justice Scholarships (for students working in social justice fields)
External funding & assistantships (students can explore external scholarships)
Tip: International students can also work part-time on-campus (up to 20 hours/week).
Once accepted, international students must:
Receive Form I-20 from Adler University
Pay the SEVIS fee ($350)
Apply for an F-1 student visa at a U.S. embassy
Attend a visa interview
Arrive in the U.S. before the program start date
International Student Services: Provides visa support, cultural adjustment help, and academic resources.
Housing: Adler does not have on-campus housing, but students can find apartments in Chicago near campus.
Student Organizations: Includes mental health advocacy groups, diversity clubs, and networking opportunities.
1. Choose a Program
Select a master’s or doctoral program from Adler University’s offerings.
Check the eligibility requirements and program-specific prerequisites.
2. Prepare & Submit the Online Application
Where to Apply?
Applications are submitted online through the Adler University website:
Application Deadlines:
Fall Intake (September): Apply by May/June
Spring Intake (January): Apply by October/November
(Some programs may have different deadlines; check program-specific details.)
Application Fee:
$30 - $50 (non-refundable), depending on the program.
3. Submit Required Documents
General Requirements for Master’s & Doctoral Programs
Completed online application
Official transcripts (from all previous institutions; must be evaluated if from outside the U.S.)
Statement of Purpose / Personal Statement (typically 500-1,000 words explaining career goals & program fit)
Letters of Recommendation (2-3 letters from professors or professionals)
Resume/CV (highlighting academic and professional experience)
English Language Proficiency Test (for international students)
TOEFL iBT: 92+
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo: 115+
Additional Requirements for Psy.D. & Ph.D. Programs:
Psy.D. applicants may need to submit GRE scores (check program-specific details).
Ph.D. applicants must submit a research proposal or academic writing sample.
4. Attend an Interview (if required)
Some programs, especially the Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology, may require an interview (online or in-person) with faculty members.
5. Receive Admission Decision
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks after submission of all documents.
If accepted, students receive an official admission letter via email.
6. Accept the Offer & Pay Enrollment Deposit
Deposit Required: To secure a seat, students must pay an enrollment deposit (usually $200-$500, varies by program).
For International Students:
Request Form I-20 for an F-1 Student Visa after paying the deposit.
Adler University follows a rolling admission process, meaning applications are reviewed as they come in. However, applying early is recommended.
Intake |
Application Deadline |
Classes Begin |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall (September) |
May – June |
Early September |
|
Spring (January) |
October – November |
Early January |
Tip: Some programs may have different deadlines, so it's best to check the official program page or contact admissions.
Completed Bachelor’s Degree (from an accredited institution)
Minimum GPA: 2.75 - 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (varies by program)
Statement of Purpose / Personal Statement
2-3 Letters of Recommendation
Resume/CV (highlighting academic & professional experience)
English Language Proficiency (for international students)
TOEFL iBT: 92+
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo: 115+
Some programs, like Counseling and Therapy, may require an interview.
Completed Master’s Degree (or equivalent) in a related field
Minimum GPA: 3.0+ on a 4.0 scale
Academic Writing Sample or Research Proposal
3 Letters of Recommendation (academic/professional)
Resume/CV (highlighting research, clinical, or leadership experience)
GRE Scores (may be required for Psy.D. and Ph.D. applicants)
English Language Proficiency (for international students)
TOEFL iBT: 92+
IELTS: 7.0+
Duolingo: 115+
For Psy.D. programs, an interview with faculty may be required.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Applicable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Adler Merit Scholarship |
High academic achievement (GPA 3.5+), leadership, and social justice commitment |
($1,000 - $10,000 per year) |
Master's & Doctoral Programs |
|
Social Justice Scholarship |
Students dedicated to community service, advocacy, and social justice |
$5,000 - $15,000 (one-time award) |
Master's & Doctoral Programs |
|
Diversity Leadership Scholarship |
Students from underrepresented backgrounds promoting diversity |
Up to $10,000 |
Master's & Doctoral Programs |
|
Presidential Scholarship |
Outstanding academic achievement and leadership |
Partial to full tuition |
Doctoral Programs (Psy.D., Ph.D.) |
|
Graduate Assistantship (GA) Funding |
Research or teaching assistantship (limited positions) |
Stipend & partial tuition support |
Master's & Doctoral Programs |
|
Alumni Referral Scholarship |
Referred by an Adler University alum |
$1,000 - $3,000 |
All Graduate Programs |
|
External & Private Scholarships |
Various external funding sources |
N/A |
All Graduate Programs |
Campus Name |
Location |
Facilities Available |
|---|---|---|
|
Chicago Campus |
17 N. Dearborn St, Chicago, Illinois, USA |
Modern classrooms, library, student lounges, research centers, career services, and community engagement programs |
Note: The campus is located in downtown Chicago, close to public transportation, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Accommodation Type |
Location (Near Campus) |
Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
Estimated Annual Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Shared Apartment (2-3 roommates) |
Downtown Chicago |
$800 - $1,500 |
$9,600 - $18,000 |
|
Studio Apartment (Single Occupancy) |
Downtown Chicago |
$1,500 - $2,500 |
$18,000 - $30,000 |
|
1-Bedroom Apartment |
Near Campus |
$1,800 - $3,000 |
$21,600 - $36,000 |
|
Homestay (with a family, includes meals) |
Chicago Suburbs |
$900 - $1,500 |
$10,800 - $18,000 |
Additional Costs:
Utilities (Electricity, Internet, Water) – $100 - $200 per month
Transportation (Public transit) – $120 per month (Chicago CTA pass)
Adler University’s Chicago campus is located in the heart of downtown Chicago, providing students with access to cultural attractions, restaurants, public transportation, and career opportunities. The campus itself offers modern classrooms, study lounges, a library, and research centers that support students' academic and professional growth.
Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from faculty.
Research opportunities in psychology, counseling, and social justice fields.
Internships & field placements at mental health clinics, community organizations, and corporate settings.
Workshops & networking events with industry professionals.
Adler University has a strong social justice mission, which is integrated into student life.
Social Justice Practicum (SJP): Students work with local communities to address real-world issues.
Volunteer & advocacy programs encourage students to support underprivileged communities.
Diversity & Inclusion initiatives promote an equitable learning environment.
Students can engage in various clubs, organizations, and leadership opportunities, such as:
Mental Health Advocacy Groups
Diversity & Cultural Clubs
Professional Networking & Career Development Groups
Student Government & Leadership Opportunities
Since Adler does not provide on-campus housing, students live in off-campus apartments near the university.
Popular neighborhoods: The Loop, River North, West Loop, South Loop
Chicago offers a vibrant lifestyle, with museums, music festivals, and networking events.
Public transportation (CTA trains & buses) is easily accessible.
Adler University prioritizes mental health and well-being by offering:
Counseling services for students.
Career & academic advising.
Health and wellness workshops.
Students can work on-campus (limited roles) or off-campus with CPT/OPT options (for international students).
Chicago is a major business hub, offering career opportunities in psychology, counseling, healthcare, corporate HR, and public policy.
Adler University provides comprehensive career services to help students find jobs and internships:
Career Coaching & Resume Assistance – One-on-one career counseling, CV building, and job search strategies.
Internships & Practicums – Every student must complete fieldwork or internships as part of their program.
Networking Events & Job Fairs – Hosted in collaboration with hospitals, mental health clinics, nonprofits, and corporate partners.
Alumni Network & Employer Partnerships – Adler has strong ties with healthcare institutions, NGOs, and corporate firms.
Although Adler University does not publish an official placement rate, graduates have a high employment rate (85-95%) within six months of graduation.
Degree |
Common Job Titles |
Average Salary (USD per Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology |
Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Therapist, Mental Health Counselor |
$80,000 - $120,000 |
|
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
Licensed Counselor, Behavioral Therapist, Case Manager |
$50,000 - $80,000 |
|
M.A. in Forensic Psychology |
Forensic Psychologist, Criminal Justice Consultant |
$60,000 - $90,000 |
|
M.S. in Industrial-Organizational (I/O) Psychology |
HR Consultant, Organizational Psychologist, Talent Manager |
$70,000 - $100,000 |
|
M.A. in Public Policy & Administration |
Policy Analyst, Nonprofit Director, Government Advisor |
$60,000 - $90,000 |
Note: Salaries vary by industry, location, and experience.
Adler students gain real-world experience through required internships & practicums at:
Hospitals & Mental Health Clinics (e.g., Northwestern Medicine, Rush University Medical Center)
Corporate & HR Departments (e.g., Fortune 500 companies for I/O Psychology graduates)
Government & Legal Institutions (e.g., FBI, Public Policy Think Tanks)
Nonprofits & Social Justice Organizations (e.g., Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch)
International students can work through:
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) – Allows part-time work during the program in related fields.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) – Up to 12 months of work after graduation (STEM programs get 24 months).
Tip: Many graduates secure H-1B work visas through employers after OPT.
Strong industry connections & internships make it easier for students to find jobs.
Career Services provides resume help, networking events, and job search support.
High employment rate (85-95%) within 6 months of graduation.
Mental health, HR, and public policy sectors have strong job demand for Adler graduates.
Adler University has an acceptance rate of approximately 70-80%, making it a moderately selective institution. The university focuses on admitting students who demonstrate academic excellence, commitment to social justice, and a passion for psychology, counseling, and leadership.
Adler University evaluates applicants based on:
Academic Performance – Minimum GPA of 2.75 - 3.0 (varies by program).
Relevant Experience – Work, research, or volunteer experience in psychology, counseling, social work, or related fields.
Personal Statement & Letters of Recommendation – Strong essays highlighting social justice commitment and career goals.
Interviews (if required) – Some programs, like Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology, may require an interview.
Program |
Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
|
Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology |
~40-50% (Highly Competitive) |
|
M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling |
~70-80% |
|
M.S. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology |
~75% |
|
M.A. in Forensic Psychology |
~75% |
|
M.A. in Public Policy & Administration |
~80% |
Note: Competitive programs, like the Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology, have a lower acceptance rate due to limited seats and high demand.
Adler University has its main U.S. campus in Chicago, Illinois.
Address:
Adler University – Chicago Campus
17 N. Dearborn Street, Chicago, IL 60602, USA
Located in downtown Chicago (The Loop area)
Close to public transportation (CTA trains & buses)
Surrounded by restaurants, cultural attractions, and corporate offices
Modern facilities, including classrooms, student lounges, and research centers
Note: Adler University does not have on-campus housing, but students can find off-campus accommodation nearby.
