Graduate Programs

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Graduate Degrees
Graduate Programs
Graduate Office
Master of Education Degree in Elementary Education
Master of Science Degree in Applied Clinical Psychology

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Graduate work at USCA provides an opportunity for students to engage in advanced study with a group of scholars actively engaged in research. While specialization is basic to graduate work, graduate programs respond to the advanced educational needs of the local and regional population.

Two programs at the master’s level are available at USCA. For information on the Master of Education Degree in Elementary Education and the Master of Science Degree in Applied Clinical Psychology see below.

The Graduate Office coordinates the offering of graduate courses on campus including USCA’s M.Ed. and M.S. programs, Graduate Regional Studies, and other USC Columbia graduate programs.

Jeffrey M.Priest, Ph.D., School Head
Audrey Skrupskelis, Ph.D., Program Coordinator, M.Ed.

A master’s degree in elementary education is designed to provide advanced professional studies in graduate level course work for persons who currently hold teacher certification and who are committed to excellence in elementary education. The degree objectives are designed to enable the student to:
    1. evaluate general principles of elementary school curriculum theory and construction.
    2. analyze and evaluate alternative patterns of elementary school organization.
    3. examine contemporary educational issues and evaluate various alternative solutions.
    4. investigate innovative methods of teaching in the elementary school.
    5. research and apply theories of human development and diversity.
    6. analyze and synthesize within the educational process the relationship between theory and practice.
    7. investigate and apply instructional and informational technology.

Conceptual Framework
The M.Ed. Program prepares dynamic educators who grow, interact and contribute professionally through out their teaching careers. The following address provides information about the Conceptual Framework: The Dynamic Educator as well as program objectives and requirements: www.usca.sc.edu/education

Professors
James F. Kauffman (Education), Ph.D., University of Denver, 1971
Margaret Riedell (Reading Education), Ph.D., University of South Carolina, 1979
Thomas J. C. Smyth (Reading, Secondary Education), Ph.D., University of South Carolina, 1983,  Endowed  Professorship of Instructional Technology

Associate Professors
Cynthia Bolton (Educational Psychology), Ph.D., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1994
Vincent Feudo (Special Education), Ph.D., University of North Carolina, 1982
Audrey Skrupskelis (Elementary/Early Childhood Education), Ph.D., University of South Carolina, 1989

Assistant Professors
Paula Gregg (Curriculum and Instruction), Ph.D., Clemson University, 1998
Deborah Haskell (Science Education), M.Ed., University of Maine, 1988
Sally McClellan (Elementary Education), Ph.D., University of South Carolina, 1992
Vernelle Tyler (Elementary Education), Ph.D., University of South Carolina, 1993

Research Associate
Gary Senn (Science Education), Ph.D., Florida Institute of Technology, 1992

Distinguished Chancellor Emeritus and Distinguished Professor Emeritus
Robert Alexander (Education), Ed.D., University of South Carolina, 1977

Professor Emerita
Ruth H. Cordahi (Educational Psychology), Ph.D., University of Oklahoma, 1974

Admission

Application
An application cannot be given final consideration until all required credentials have been received. Application deadlines are variable in order to meet the needs of in-service teachers. Please contact the USCA Graduate Office in Room 108-F of the Penland Administration Building for information. Applications should be completed at the earliest possible date.

Application requirements include the following:

1. Official transcript showing the award of the baccalaureate or higher degree by an accredited college or university. Transcripts verifying all previous graduate degrees will be required to complete the permanent record. Transcripts of all previous academic study at the time of application may be requested.
2. Three letters of recommendation.
3. Report of scores achieved on the Graduate Record Examinations or Miller Analogies Test. Any exceptions for students failing to meet minimum standardized test score requirements shall be referred to the Admissions Committee for review and final decision.
4. Evidence of teacher certification.
5. A satisfactory score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for applicants whose native language is not English. The minimum acceptable score is 550 on the standard or 213 on the computer-based version.
6. Written statement of philosophy of education, typed and attached to application form.

Application files are handled by the USCA Graduate Office. Completed files clearly meeting all criteria for admission are forwarded to the Coordinator of the M. Ed. Program for approval. Upon approval, students receive an official letter of acceptance from the Head of the School of Education. Students meet with the Coordinator to complete a program of study as soon as possible after acceptance.

Admission Requirements
Admission standards. For admission to the USC Aiken Graduate Program, graduation from a college or university accredited by a regional accrediting agency is regularly required. The applicants’ academic record should indicate that they graduated in their class with a minimum 2.5 grade point average while carrying an undergraduate program demonstrating adequate preparation in the field in which graduate work is to be undertaken. The minimum score on the Miller Analogies Test is 35 and the minimum scores on the Graduate Record Exam are Verbal 400 and Quantitative 400. Admission is determined on the basis of an overall profile of the courses taken, grades achieved, and the applicant’s test scores when applicable. Any exceptions for students failing to meet minimum standardized test score requirements shall be referred to the Admissions Committee for review and final decision.

Enrollment Classifications:
1. Full Admission Status: Applicants who have met all requirements for admission including satisfactory scores on the Graduate Records Examination or Miller Analogies Test, satisfactory references and satisfactory academic performance at an accredited university or college. Up to 12 hours of graduate credit from an accredited university or college may be accepted toward the degree, subject to approval of the School of Education. A maximum of 6 hours of graduate coursework identified as professional development courses may be applied toward the M.Ed. Degree subject to approval of the School.

2. Non-degree Enrollment Status:  Students who intend to seek a graduate degree, but lack one or more of the requirements for full admission status, or who are seeking graduate credit for the purpose of recertification or for transfer to another college or university. Only six (6) hours taken as a non-degree student at any USC campus may be used toward a degree program.

A non-refundable application fee of $35 is required of all first-time applicants to the USCA graduate program.

Appeals for Admission. An appropriate hearing board will provide each student with an opportunity to challenge the content of University records, to ensure that the records are not inaccurate or misleading and to provide an opportunity for the correction or deletion of any inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise inappropriate data contained therein. Such requests should be made through the Graduate Advisory Council at USCA. For additional information on the admissions appeal process, please refer to the USCA Graduate Policies and Procedures Manual.

Valid period of admission. Admission to the Graduate School is valid for one year unless a shorter period is specified by a particular program. If an admission has not been acted upon by a student after one calendar year, the student must reapply for admission.

Students who have been admitted to a graduate program under regulations other than these, and have not completed any USC graduate courses during a period of three or more years are required to fulfill current admission requirements prior to returning to the University for additional graduate work. Such students become subject to regulations of the Graduate Program to which they are admitted in effect at the time of readmission.

The University reserves the right to decline admission, to suspend, or to require the withdrawal of a student when, for any reason, such action is deemed to be in the interest of the University.

Testing and Language Proficiency. All applicants are advised to write the Educational Testing Service as soon as possible to arrange for the MAT or GRE, and the Test of English as a Foreign Language if appropriate. Test results should be available prior to the application deadline for the desired term.

International Student Admission. Students who have earned a degree or taken any courses in countries outside the US, must have an official transcript evaluated by a professional evaluation service. This evaluation must be forwarded directly to the USCA Graduate Admissions Office from the evaluation service. (A list of several professional Evaluation Services can be obtained from the USCA Admissions Office or found on the USCA web site at: www.usca.sc.edu/admissions). Students will not be considered for admission until this evaluation is received.

Academic Regulations
All graduate students should be familiar with the following general regulations governing graduate study at the University of South Carolina Aiken.

The students may expect to be allowed to obtain a degree in accordance with the requirements set forth in the regulations in force at the time they are admitted to degree candidacy, or under subsequent regulations published while they are enrolled as degree candidates. However, students are restricted in the choice of requirements of one specific bulletin. Graduate students in master’s programs have a period of six years inclusive and continuous in which to claim the rights of a specific bulletin. Students are advised that unforeseen circumstances may interfere with the scheduling of any given course or degree offering. Students will be required to take such developments into account as they arise, even if doing so means a delay in the fulfillment of some of their academic goals, or a modification of those goals. The school will work closely with students facing such problems, in an effort to resolve them with minimum of difficulty.

Graduate Advisement
Every graduate student admitted to a degree program is entitled to an advisor in the School of Education at USCA. Any graduate student who has not been assigned an advisor should consult the Coordinator of the M. Ed. Program for information on advisement procedures.

Students admitted as "non-degree" students, that is, those who do not seek degree admission or who have not yet met all the conditions for degree admission, are not assigned to advisors but may consult the Coordinator of the M. Ed. Program for both specific and general information.

Graduate Program of Study
Every graduate student should file a Program of Study form at the earliest convenient date. Program forms may be obtained from the Graduate Office. Candidates for the master’s degree may file their program forms during the first semester of study and should in no case file them later than the semester following the completion of their first 12 hours.

A Program of Study form is a written agreement signed by the student and the advisor, the School Head, and the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. This formal agreement serves a number of purposes to the benefit of the student and the University: it causes students and advisors to engage in early planning with specific goals in mind; it provides useful information for the planning of course offerings; it facilitates subsequent advisement; and it protects students in the event of unexpected curriculum or faculty changes. Although formal programs are binding, they can be modified or replaced by new programs if conditions warrant such changes. The procedure for change is similar to that for filing the original program and usually requires the same series of signatures. Degree students are entitled to the advantages of a Program of Study and should take the necessary steps to secure them at the appropriate time.

Courses
Prerequisites. Prerequisite courses are listed to inform students about the academic background recommended for satisfactory course completion. The instructor may approve the enrollment of students who have acquired the equivalent knowledge or skills through other courses or experiences. Special permission to enroll should be requested from the instructor prior to registration.

Course loads. A student may enroll for a semester load not to exceed 12 graduate hours. A student is classified as a full-time student for academic purposes with nine or more hours during a fall or spring term and three hours during a summer session.

Credit by examination. No graduate credit is offered by examination only.

Academic standards. Graduate courses may be passed for degree credit with a grade as low as C, but the student’s average on all courses attempted for graduate credit must be at least B (3.0 on a 4-point system). Grades earned on credits transferred from other universities do not count in the grade point average.

Students who receive grades below B on 12 or more graduate credit hours within a six year period are consequently suspended from degree candidacy status and are not permitted to enroll for further courses even as non-degree students without the specific approval of their academic unit. This rule applies to courses taken for non-degree purposes as well as to courses taken in the degree programs; it applies even to courses taken in two or more degree programs. Courses six years old or older will not be counted toward a master’s degree without revalidation. Grades of C or lower received in outdated courses will be dropped and these courses will cease to be a disqualifying factor.

Maximum period allowed. Six years is regarded as the maximum time allowed for graduate credits for degree candidates. In case more time than 6 years is spent on the program, special arrangements may be made with the School offering the program for the revalidation of credits in courses given by the institution. Students who fail to complete their programs in the period allowed become subject to changes in degree requirements adopted up to the date 6 years prior to their graduation. No program is to be completed in less than a twelve month period.

Revalidation. Regular graduate students of the institution desiring to revalidate a course must secure permission of the Coordinator of the M. Ed. Program and of the Head of the School of Education. The applicant must pay to the Graduate Office of the institution, in advance of the examination, a non-refundable fee of $25.00 per credit hour.

Transfer credit. Up to 12 semester hours of credit with grades of B or better (or equivalent grades if a different system is used) from other institutions of approved graduate standing may be transferred for use with the restrictions that the credit must have been earned at an institution accredited, at the time the course work was completed. The only exceptions to this standard are as follows: transfer from foreign institutions, transfer of course work completed at an accredited institution, or the acceptance of credit for military education. Transfer must be approved by the Coordinator of the M.Ed. Program and by the Head of the School of Education. The credit must be dated within the six-year period allowed for a degree. There is no revalidation mechanism for transfer credit that does not fall within the time limit. Graduate credit will not be accepted for portfolio-based experimental learning which occurs prior to the student’s matriculation.

Attendance
Students are expected to attend all regular class meetings. Unsatisfactory class attendance may be considered adequate reason by the instructor for requesting the student to withdraw from the course.

Appeals and Petitions
Appeals and petitions related to programs, regulations, or other academic matters will be reviewed first by the academic unit then by the USCA Graduate Advisory Council, and finally forwarded to the USCA Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs for approval. See page 29 for information on relief from academic regulations.

Appellants who have maintained a B average despite their accumulation of lower grades may, if their appeals are supported by their academic units, be allowed to proceed toward their degrees provided they receive no additional grades below B.

Appellants who have not maintained a B average should show extenuating circumstances and obtain the support of their academic units if they wish to be considered for reinstatement by the USCA Graduate Advisory Council.

Applications for Degrees
All candidates for degrees must file a formal application with the USCA Office of the Registrar during the last academic term before graduation. In addition, a Clearance Recommendation for Graduate Degree Application must also be submitted. Deadlines are indicated in the Master Schedule of Classes for each term. Diplomas will not be awarded retroactively.

Master of Education Degree Requirements

1. Successful completion of an approved program of study providing 36 hours of graduate credit, of which at least 50% must be earned in courses numbered 700 or above (the remainder may be in courses numbered 600-699). A student’s official program of education must be approved not only by the advisor but by the Head of the School of Education and the Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs.
2. Successful completion of a comprehensive evaluation which includes a synthesis paper, portfolio, and oral defense.
3. Successful completion of AELE 780, Seminar in Elementary Education with a grade of B or better.

Policies and Procedures for the Administration of the Comprehensive Evaluation of the M.Ed. Program in Elementary Education
Each candidate for the M.Ed. degree in Elementary Education will complete a Comprehensive Evaluation which is composed of a written component and an oral defense. The candidate must successfully complete a minimum of 30 hours of course work prior to submission of the written component. Those 30 hours will include course work in research, human growth and development, one curriculum course, and application of technology. The written component will be due April 1st or November 1st.

Written Component
The written component includes a Synthesis Paper and a Portfolio. The Synthesis Paper is a scholarly statement which demonstrates the ability to summarize and connect what was learned in courses, readings, discussions, and classroom-based experiences. The Portfolio is composed of artifacts which demonstrate that the candidate has attained knowledge specific to each of the seven program objectives. The objectives are designed to enable the student to:

1. evaluate general principles of elementary school curriculum theory and construction.

2. analyze and evaluate alternative patterns of elementary school organization.

3. examine contemporary educational issues and evaluate various alternative solutions.

4. investigate innovative methods of teaching in the elementary school.

5. research and apply theories of human development and diversity.

6. analyze and synthesize within the educational process the relationship between theory and practice.

7. investigate and apply instructional and informational technology.

The written component will be read and evaluated by two members of the graduate faculty who will designate an overall rating of Pass or Fail. If the candidate does not receive a rating of Pass by both of the readers, the written component will be read by a third reader. If the candidate does not receive a rating of Pass from at least two readers, the candidate will have one opportunity to resubmit the written component within one year.

Oral  Defense
The oral defense will be scheduled within the following three weeks after the candidate has successfully passed the written component. The oral defense is conducted by three members of the graduate faculty. The defense begins with a short oral presentation by the candidate followed by questions by the faculty to assess the candidate’s ability to defend the written component. All three of the faculty members must designate a rating of Pass on the oral defense in order for the M.Ed. degree to be recommended.

Selection of Faculty
During the spring term, the Head of the School of Education will designate a team of three graduate faculty to read the written components and conduct the oral defenses that term. Consideration will be given to faculty load as well as the willingness to serve.

Program in Elementary Education
Candidates for the Master of Education Degree in Elementary Education will meet the requirements listed below for a minimum of 36 semester hours.

Foundations of Education .......................................................................21
AEFN 749 The School in Modern Society .............................................3
AEPY 705 Theories of Human Growth and Development  ..................... 3
AERM 700 Introduction of Research in Education ...................................3
AELE 715 Elementary School Curriculum ................................................3
AELE 717 Curriculum Problems in Elementary School .............................3
AELE 780 Seminar in Elementary Education .............................................3
AETE 731 Instr. and Inform. Applications of Tech. ...................................3

Content Methods (9 credits selected from the following) .............................9
 AELE 670 Advanced Study of Language Arts Methods
 AELE 760 Advanced Study of Social Studies Methods
 AELE 615 Advanced Study of Science Methods
 AELE 745 Advanced Study of Mathematics and Problem Solving
 AETE 760 Issues in Writing Instruction K-12

Related Study/School Services ....................................................................6
Courses in Computer Use, Guidance and Counseling, Educational Administration,
Education for Exceptional Children, and other education electives as approved.

Total hours required .....................................................................................36

Students are expected to complete AEPY 705, Theories of Human Growth and Development, and AERM 700, Introduction to Research in Education, during the first 12 hours of graduate coursework.

Course Descriptions
Education (AEDU)
AEDU 633 Field Problems in Education. (1-3) Selected educational problems will be identified and explored, and probable solutions developed. Emphasis will be on providing practicing school personnel an opportunity to work cooperatively, under supervision, toward solutions to those problems which are of immediate concern to them. Activities will include seminars, review of literature, observations, case studies, materials development, and other applicable approaches. Emphasis will be placed on the development of a comprehensive proposal designed to alleviate or solve the problems identified.

Foundations (AEFN)   
AEFN 749 The School in Modern Society. (3) (Prereq: admission to full graduate standing or permission of instructor) Basic concepts in the relation of the school to the social order: an analysis of the central features of the changing social context within American educational policy and behavior problems.

Elementary (AELE)  
AELE 615 Advanced Study of Science Methods in the Elementary School. (3) Reinforces the science background of prospective and practicing elementary teachers. Innovations are examined. Emphasis is placed on methods, materials, community resources, and evaluation procedures.

AELE 670 Advanced Study of Language Arts Methods in the Elementary School. (3) Content, goals, and methods of teaching language arts in the elementary schools. Emphasis in the teaching of oral and written expression and listening.

AELE 715 The Elementary School Curriculum. (3) Critical study of the modern elementary school curriculum.

AELE 717 Curriculum Problems in the Elementary School. (3) (Prereq: AELE 715) A careful examination of the persistent problems of elementary schools (grouping, promotions, etc.) and the best solutions in terms of research and expert opinion.

AELE 720 Middle School Organization and Curriculum. (3) An overview of the development of the middle school, history, purposes, and organization and an in-depth analysis of middle school organization and curriculum. The characteristics of middle school students, methods of evaluating students, and the overall curricular program are also considered.

AELE 745 Advanced Teaching of Mathematics and Problem Solving in the Elementary School. (3) (Prereq: AMTH 221 or its equivalent) Analysis of the school curriculum and instructional methods in the designated areas of mathematics; exploration of appropriate outcomes on instruction.

AELE 760 Advanced Study of Social Studies Methods in the Elementary School. (3) The selection of teaching procedures and instructional materials used to teach social studies in the elementary/middle school.

AELE 780 Seminar in Elementary Education. (3) (Prereq: 27 semester hours of credit earned or 24 hours of credit earned and concurrent enrollment in 3 hours of graduate coursework as specified on the program of study). The course is designed to integrate the candidate’s knowledge of curriculum, assessment, policy, and learning theory for the analysis of current educational trends and issues. A grade of "B" or above in this course is required for completion of the M.Ed. Degree.

Educational Psychology (AEPY)
AEPY 705 Theories of Human Growth and Development. (3) An analysis of developmental theories and research from birth through adulthood with emphasis on developmentally appropriate practices for teachers, parents, counselors, and administrators. Includes an examination of cognitive, emotional, physical, social and moral development from a variety of historical and contemporary perspectives.

Research and Measurement (AERM)
AERM 700 Introduction to Research in Education. (3) (Prereq: full admission to graduate standing or permission of instructor) Emphasis on the major methods and techniques of research by students of education.

Instruction and Teaching (AETE)
AETE 610 Integrated Reading and Writing Instruction. (3) Theoretical bases and techniques for teaching reading and writing in the elementary school, using multiple subject areas.

AETE 631 Using Computers to Support Instruction. (3) Applications of selected software in instructional management.

AETE 671 Computers in Science Education. (3) Use of computer technology in teaching and managing science classes and programs in grades K-12.

AETE 731 Instructional and Informational Applications of Technology. (3) Educational technology focused on instructional and informational applications of computers.

AETE 755 Supervision and Evaluation of Clinical Experiences. (3) (Prereq: a minimum of one year of PK-12 teaching experience) An examination of theoretical foundations and experiential techniques necessary for effective mentoring, supervision, and evaluation of novice teachers in their initial teaching years, teaching interns during their semester internship, and practicum students working in clinical settings.

AETE 760 Issues in Writing Instruction K-12. (6) Issues in the teaching of writing, with emphasis on classroom applications K-12 and program development.

Edward J. Callen, Department Chair
Thomas L. Boyd, Psychology Graduate Program Director
 

T he Master of Science Degree in Applied Clinical Psychology provides graduate study and clinical experience in preparation for careers in applied clinical and counseling settings and as a foundation for students interested in pursuing advanced doctoral studies. Students enrolled in this program are expected to pursue a plan of study to assure increased professional competence and breadth of knowledge in the field of clinical and counseling psychology. The degree objectives are designed to enable the student to:

    1. Understand principles of psychology and how they are applied. 
    2. Understand a diversity of theoretical perspectives.
    3. Interpret and apply statistical and research techniques
    4. Understand professional, legal and ethical principles as they pertain to professional conduct and responsibility.
    5. Understand and develop skills in assessment procedures and intervention strategies.

Department of Psychology Faculty
The psychology faculty come from all parts of the country and bring a broad array of expertise to the program. They are not only respected scholars in their field but also excellent communicators who bring a sense of adventure to the classroom. They actively involve students in their quest for answers to psychology’s frontier issues. Among the topics which are currently being studied by faculty and students are the nature of fear, artificial intelligence, mental retardation, parenting and attachment, stress and alcohol, assessment and treatment of childhood affective disorders, and explorations of the nature of self-esteem.

Professors
Thomas L. Boyd (Psychology), Ph.D., State University of New York-Binghamton, 1978
Edward J. Callen (Psychology), Ph.D., Northern Illinois University, 1986
O. Joseph Harm (Psychology), Ph.D., Vanderbilt University, 1975
William J. House (Psychology), Ph.D., University of South Carolina, 1974
Keri A. Weed (Psychology), Ph.D., Notre Dame, 1984 

Associate Professor
Amber L. Story (Psychology), Ph.D., Cornell University, 1992

Assistant Professors
Devin A. Byrd (Psychology), Ph.D., Virginia Polytechnic Institute, 2000
Maureen H. Carrigan (Psychology), Ph.D., Binghamton University, 1998

Lecturer
John B. Bradley (Psychology), Ph.D., University of South Carolina, 1968

Professor Emerita
Emilie Towler (Psychology), M.A., University of Rochester, 1948
 

Admission
Application
Application forms for admission to graduate studies may be obtained from the Department of Psychology Office, Room 226 of the Penland Administration Building or the USCA Graduate Office in Room 108-F of the Penland Administration Building. Candidates for graduate studies are required to hold a baccalaureate degree in accordance with the general regulations of the University of South Carolina Aiken. Admission may be granted at one of three levels:

    a. Full admission status: Applications with satisfactory scores on the Graduate Record Examination (General and Psychology), satisfactory references and undergraduate records indicating good academic performance.

or

    b. Provisional status: Applicants who intend to seek a graduate degree, but lack sufficient requirements for full admission status. Provisional students must attain a 3.0 grade point average during the first 12 credit hours to be eligible for full admission.

If after the completion of any semester of the provisional enrollment, it is determined that the student will be unable to achieve a 3.0 grade point average during the course of the first 12 credit hours, the student will be disenrolled.

or

    c. Non-degree status: Applicants who do not intend to seek the USCA M.S. degree or who intend to transfer to another college or university. Students admitted under the non-degree status must attain full admission status if they wish to enroll for more than 12 hours or for applied core or advanced courses.

The curriculum is designed to allow students to pursue their degree as either part-time or full-time students.

A non-refundable application fee of $35 is required of all first-time applicants to the USCA graduate program.

Appeals for Admission. An appropriate hearing board will provide each student with an opportunity to challenge the content of University records, to ensure that the records are not inaccurate or misleading and to provide an opportunity for the correction or deletion of any inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise inappropriate data contained therein. Such requests should be made through the Graduate Advisory Council at USCA. For additional information on the admissions appeal process, please refer to the USCA Graduate Policies and Procedures Manual.

Valid period of admission. Admission to the Graduate School is valid for one year unless a shorter period is specified by a particular program. If an admission has not been acted upon by a student after one calendar year, the student must reapply for admission.

Students who have been admitted to a graduate program under regulations other than these, and have not completed any USCA graduate courses during a period of three or more years are required to fulfill current admission requirements prior to returning to the University for additional graduate work. Such students become subject to regulations of the Graduate Program to which they are admitted in effect at the time of readmission.

The University reserves the right to decline admission, to suspend, or to require the withdrawal of a student when, for any reason, such action is deemed to be in the interest of the University.

International Student Admission. Students who have earned a degree or taken any courses in countries outside the US, must have an official transcript evaluated by a professional evaluation service. This evaluation must be forwarded directly to the USCA Graduate Admissions Office from the evaluation service. (A list of several professional Evaluation Services can be obtained from the USCA Admissions Office or found on the USCA web site at: www.usca.sc.edu/admissions). Students will not be considered for admission until this evaluation is received.

Degree Admission Requirements:

Acceptance by the Department of Psychology will be done on the basis of the applicant’s total academic profile. That includes:

1. A completed application to the Graduate Office, University of South Carolina Aiken.
2. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with at least 15 hours in psychology.
3. Transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate work (3.00 overall undergraduate G.P.A. preferred).
4. Three letters of recommendation, with at least two from faculty at academic institutions.
5. A written personal statement of intent describing professional goals.
6. Satisfactory performance on the Graduate Record Examination [1000 GRE (Verbal and Quantitative), and 450 GRE (Advanced Psychology) preferred].*

*To be considered for admission, scores submitted for the Graduate Record Exam requirement must have been posted by the applicant within the five years prior to application.

The Master of Science in Applied Clinical Psychology degree requires:
1. Successful completion of an approved program of study providing a minimum of 45 hours of graduate credit. A student’s official program of study must be approved by the Director of the Graduate Clinical Program, Psychology Department Chair, and the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.
2. Practicum/course requirements to include at least 450 clock- hours of applied/clinical experiences.
3. Successful completion of a Master’s Thesis.

Academic Regulations
All graduate students should be familiar with the following general regulations governing graduate study at the University of South Carolina Aiken.

The students may expect to be allowed to obtain a degree in accordance with the requirements set forth in the regulations in force at the time they are admitted to degree candidacy, or under subsequent regulations published while they are enrolled as degree candidates. However, students are restricted in the choice of requirements of one specific bulletin. Graduate students in master’s programs have a period of six years inclusive and continuous in which to claim the rights of a specific bulletin. Students are advised that unforeseen circumstances may interfere with the scheduling of any given course or degree offering. Students will be required to take such developments into account as they arise, even if doing so means a delay in the fulfillment of some of their academic goals, or a modification of those goals. The school will work closely with students facing such problems, in an effort to resolve them with a minimum of difficulty.

Graduate Advisement
Every graduate student admitted to a degree program will be advised by the Psychology Graduate Program Director.

Students admitted as "non-degree" or "provisional" students are also advised by the Psychology Graduate Program Director.

Graduate Program of Study
Every graduate student should file a Program of Study form. Program forms may be obtained from the Psychology Graduate Program Director. Master’s degree students should file their program forms during the first semester of study.

A Program of Study form is a written agreement signed by the student and the Director of Graduate Studies, the Department Chair, and the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. This formal agreement serves a number of purposes to the benefit of the student and the University: it causes students and advisors to engage in early planning with specific goals in mind; it provides useful information for the planning of course offerings; it facilitates subsequent advisement; and it protects students in the event of unexpected curriculum or faculty changes. Although formal programs are binding, they can be modified or replaced by new programs if conditions warrant such changes. The procedure for change is similar to that for filing the original program and usually requires the same series of signatures. Degree students are entitled to the advantages of a Program of Study and should take the necessary steps to secure them at the appropriate time.

Graduate Student Handbook
Graduate Handbook.  All graduate students are issued a USC Aiken Psychology Department Graduate Student Handbook which provides additional information about the academic program, stipend opportunities, faculty research areas and opportunities, and career planning information.

Courses
Admission to courses. Admission to graduate courses is always subject to departmental consent. Courses numbered 600-799 are restricted to graduate students.

Prerequisites. Prerequisite courses are listed to inform students about the academic background recommended for satisfactory course completion. The Department Chair or the Graduate Program Director may approve the enrollment of students who have acquired the equivalent knowledge or skills through other courses or experiences. Special permission to enroll should be requested from the Department Chair or the Graduate Program Director prior to registration.

Course loads. A student may enroll for a semester load not to exceed 12 graduate hours. A student is classified as a full-time student for academic purposes with nine or more hours during a fall or spring term and three hours during a summer session.

Credit by examination. No graduate credit is offered by examination only.

Transfer credit. A maximum of 12 hours of equivalent graduate coursework completed at other accredited institutions with a grade of B or better may transfer to the USCA M.S. Psychology degree. However, thesis and practicum work from institutions other than USCA will not transfer into the program. The department will make final determination of transferability of all coursework.

Academic standards. After the completion of nine hours of coursework in the USCA M.S. Psychology program, a minimum grade point average of 3.0 must be maintained to remain in good standing in the degree program. If the grade point average falls below 3.0 in any semester, a probationary period will begin in which the student must raise the grade point average to at least 3.0 within the next 9 credit hours of coursework. Failure to attain a 3.0 in this period will result in the student’s termination from the degree program. Students may not enroll in practica or thesis during the probationary period.

Graduate courses may be passed for degree credit with a grade as low as C, but the student’s average on all courses attempted for graduate credit must be at least a 3.0. If the student earns a grade below a C on any course, that course must be repeated in order to earn degree credit (C or better). All registrations will appear on the student’s permanent record and all grades will be computed in the student’s grade point average. Course credit for graduation will be given only once unless otherwise stiuplated in the course descripton. Students must have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 in order to graduate from the degree program. Grades earned on credits transferrd from other universities do not count in the grade point average.

APSY 799 is graded on a pass-fail basis, and is not included in the overall grade point average. Students will receive a ‘T’ letter grade, signifying satisfactory performance for each semester that they are enrolled in APSY 799. A ‘U’ letter grade will signify unsatisfactory performance, and will not count toward degree requirements. If, at the completion of 5 hours, the student has still not completed the thesis requirements, that student will be required to maintain enrollment in APSY 799 during subsequent semesters until the thesis requirements are met. Any student who continues to use University facilities or wishes to confer with faculty on thesis work must be officially enrolled for at least one hour of thesis credit.

Auditing.  Under certain circumstances, graduate courses may be audited by obtaining prior approval from the Director of the Graduate Program in Applied Clinical Psychology and the Psychology Department Chair. No degree credit may be earned in an audited courses. Applied Core courses may not be audited.

Appeals and Petitions
Appeals and petitions related to programs, regulations, or other academic matters will be reviewed first by the academic unit then by the USCA Graduate Advisory Council, and finally forwarded to the USCA Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs for approval. See page 29 for information on relief from academic regulations.

Applications for Degrees
All candidates for degrees must file a formal application with the USCA Office of the Registrar during the last academic term before graduation. In addition, a Clearance Recommendation for Graduate Degree Application must also be submitted. Deadlines are indicated in the Master Schedule of Classes for each term. Diplomas will not be awarded retroactively.

Both undergraduate and graduate students will find additional USCA regulations and procedures are printed in other sections of the Bulletin and the USCA Student Handbook.

Program in Applied Clinical Psychology
Core Course Requirements (all required) ...................15
APSY 610 Developmental  ...................3
APSY 620 Psychopathology  ...................3
APSY 625 Statistics and Research Methods  ...................3
APSY 640 Social Psychology  ...................3
APSY 650 Learning  ...................3

Applied Core Course Requirements (all required)  ...................21
APSY 600 Ethical and Professional Issues in the Practice of Psychology   ...................3
APSY 680 Assessment I  ...................3
APSY 720 Theories and Techniques of Counseling and Psychotherapy  ...................3
APSY 725 Group Therapy and Counseling   ...................3
APSY 780 Assessment II  ...................3
APSY 790 Practicum in Applied Clinical/Counseling Psychology (2 semesters)   ...................6

Advanced Topics (must take at least one course)  ...................3
APSY 700 Advanced Topics in Applied Psychology  ...................3
APSY 760 Topics in Cognitive Science    ...................3
APSY 770 Topics in Neuroscience   ...................3

Thesis (two semester minimum)  ...................6
APSY 798 Thesis Preparation  ...................1
APSY 799 Thesis  ...................5

Professional Elective (Optional)
APSY 630 Career and Lifestyle Development  ...................3

Total hours required  ...................45

Course Descriptions

Psychology (APSY)

CORE COURSES (all required)
APSY 610 Developmental Psychology. (3) A lifespan approach will be used to explore continuities and changes from early to later development in physical, cognitive, and psychosocial domains. Theoretical perspectives will include personality, learning, social learning, cognitive-developmental, biological, and cultural-contextual. Biological and environmental factors leading to normal and abnormal human development will be examined.

APSY 620 Psychopathology. (3) An advanced survey of the major psychological disorders as they are described in the diagnostic and statistical manual (DSM). DSM criteria, including the major behavioral manifestations and other dynamics associated with the mental disorders will be examined. Diverse theoretical models applied to the development of personality and psychopathology will be explored. Empirical findings associated with the nature of mental disorders and their theoretical models will be emphasized.

APSY 625 Statistics and Research Methods. (3) Advanced analysis of applied statistics and research methods in psychology and the interpretation of statistics and research designs in the psychological literature. This includes an understanding of the practical application of research methods to the evaluation of programmatic research and to professional communication. Consideration of the ethical treatment of research participants will be stressed.

APSY 640 Social Psychology. (3) An advanced study of theoretical issues and current research in interpersonal and group factors affecting behavior and cognition. Topics include the dynamics of group identification and the formation of subgroups in American society; social cognition and attitudes associated with behaviors of conformity, prejudice, helping, aggression, and other interaction patterns; and an understanding of societal changes and trends.

APSY 650 Learning. (3) An analysis of research and theory in classical and instrumental (operant) conditioning principles.

APPLIED CORE COURSES (all required)
APSY 600 Ethical and Professional Issues in the Practice of Psychology. (3) A historical perspective on the history and development of clinical and counseling psychology. Current requirements and professional trends in the field, including licensing and credentialing will be examined. A major focus of this course will include a review of the development of legal and ethical practice requirements, current legal and ethical practice standards, and their application to professional roles and functions.

APSY 680 Assessment I. (3) (Prereqs.: APSY 620 and APSY 625, or consent of instructor). An introduction to the assessment process. Psychological theories and psychometric principles associated with the appraisal process, including issues of reliability and validity and other psychometric statistics, in addition to exploring diverse factors that affect the assessment process. Exposure to various appraisal skills, including structured and unstructured assessment techniques will be included. Formal classroom and applied experiences included.

APSY 720 Theories and Techniques of Psychotherapy and Counseling. (3) (Prereq.: APSY 620, or consent of instructor). A study of counseling and psychotherapy theories and techniques, and their applications to the psychological disorders and problems of lifestyle. Theories of consultation, and their application to diverse professional settings will be examined. A focus upon process and outcome measures, and professional/ethical principles associated with client intervention and consultation will be included. Formal classroom and applied experiences are included.

APSY 725 Group Therapy and Counseling. (3) (Prereq.: APSY 720). The study of theories of group processes and dynamics, in addition to treatment skills in various group interventions. An additional emphasis will be placed upon intervention for focus groups, covering empirically validated treatment methods. Formal classroom and applied experiences will be included.

APSY 780 Assessment II. (3) (Prereq.: APSY 680). Assessment and diagnosis, with a primary focus upon the application of appraisal/assessment results to the DSM and the diagnosis of psychopathology, and to the helping/treatment process, including the practice of consultation. Various appraisal skills will be examined, including structured and unstructured assessment techniques. Formal classroom and applied experiences are included.

APSY 790 Practicum In Clinical/Counseling Psychology. (3) (Prereq.: APSY 720; Prereq. or Coreq. APSY 780). Class meetings and individual supervision in the application and evaluation of assessment, intervention, and consultation skills in various applied clinical/counseling settings. Students must repeat this course for a total of 6 credit hours.

ADVANCED TOPICS (must take at least one course)
APSY 700 Advanced Topics In Applied Psychology. (3) (Prereq.: Consent of instructor). An in-depth study of selected topics in clinical/counseling psychology. Examples may include such areas as cognitive-behavioral intervention, childhood psychopathology, behavioral medicine, and assessment and treatment of specific psychological disorders. Students may repeat APSY 700, but may not enroll in the same topic twice. Formal classroom and applied experiences will be included.

APSY 760 Topics In Cognitive Science. (3) (Prereq.: Consent of instructor). Advanced study of theoretical and applied issues in one or more topics chosen from the areas of human memory, attention, imagery, psycholinguistics, reasoning, problem-solving and artificial intelligence.

APSY 770 Topics In Neuroscience. (3) Advanced study of theoretical and applied issues in the neurosciences. Examples of such topics are behavioral pharmacology, pain, neurological disorder and assessment, and brain dysfunction.

THESIS (Two semester minimum required)
APSY 798 Thesis Preparation. (1) (Prereq.: APSY 625 and consent of department). Development and completion of a thesis proposal. Successful completion of the course requires thesis committee approval of the final thesis proposal. (Pass/Fail only)

APSY 799 Thesis. (1-5) (Prereq.: APSY 798 and consent of department). Independent research and thesis defense. Students may repeat this course for a maximum of 5 credit hours toward the degree requirement.

PROFESSIONAL ELECTIVES
APSY 630 Career and Lifestyle Development. (3) The study of career development theories, and how to apply these theories to assessment issues in career development, and to issues of counseling and guidance in lifestyle and career decision making.

Note: Students will gain applied/clinical experiences through practicum courses and specific applied-core courses. Practicum/course requirements will include at least 450 clock-hours of applied/clinical experiences. Ongoing supervision of these experiences will be conducted by appropriate USC Aiken faculty and, when appropriate, local agency staff and local professionals functioning under the direction of appropriate USC Aiken faculty.

In addition to formal classroom/practicum training, graduate assistantships are available for qualified students. These assistantships are provided in professional settings allowing students the opportunity to gain additional clinical experiences.