Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I apply to Pacifica?
Request an Admissions Packet, which includes a course catalog, application forms and information necessary to initiate your application process.

To obtain an Admissions Packet please:
Call: 805.969.3626 (ext. 305), Wendy Overend
Complete form online: Click Here
Email:woverend@pacifica.edu

2. What is the application deadline?
Pacifica is now accepting applications for Fall 2008. Pacifica continues to accept applications throughout the summer for Fall 2008 enrollment. We highly recommend that you submit your application as soon as possible to assure you have time to prepare for your graduate studies. Please submit your application, along with the $60 filing fee so that an official file can be created for you. Once your application is complete, and as recommended by the Admissions Committee, an on-campus interview is scheduled. Notifications of acceptance will be mailed shortly after the interview. To complete the application process, applicants must submit all required documentation, including transcripts and letters of recommendation, and one must complete an on-campus interview. For admissions questions and information, please call, 805.969.3626 x305 for Wendy Overend.

3. When does school start? Do you have quarterly admissions? If I am accepted to the program this year can I defer my enrollment?
Pacifica enrolls new students annually each year in the fall, and for both spring and fall for the Humanities program. An applicant's acceptance to any of the degree programs is for the 2008-2009 academic year only and cannot be deferred.

4. Must I take the GRE (Graduate Record Exam) in order to apply to Pacifica?
No. The GRE is not an admissions requirement.

5. How many pages should my personal statement be?
Your personal statement is a very important part of your application and there is no specific minimum or maximum number of pages required. For some, one page is sufficient. Two or three also are fine; however, for others five or more may be appropriate.

6. Can I apply to Pacifica while still completing my B.A. or M.A. degree?
Yes, you can. However, your acceptance would be conditional upon the completion of this degree prior to your matriculation to Pacifica.

7. What is the general format of classes?
The classes are usually a combination of lecture and discussion. While faculty present lectures, time is set-aside for discussion, and question and answer periods. Some classes include experiential work and group or individual presentations. Classes are held Friday, Saturday, Sunday for Clinical, Depth Psychotherapy and Counseling. Myth and Depth are held on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday.

8. How much work is required outside of class?
Class assignments consist of readings, papers, and/or projects. For the master's program in counseling psychology, for every hour in class there are approximately two hours of work outside of class between each class session. For the Humanities program, a blended distance learning program, students will have a minimum of 9 hours of work outside of class time for each online week. For the doctoral programs, there are three hours of work outside of class between each class session. However, the amount of time a student invests in his or her course work will vary a good deal and will depend upon a variety of factors such as learning style and study habits.

9. Is Financial Aid available? How do I apply for Financial Aid?
Yes, Pacifica is approved by the U.S. Department of Education for participation in the Federal Stafford Loan Program. All students who wish to apply for the federal Stafford loan are required by the Department of Education to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form each year of enrollment. The FAFSA form is available on the web at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Students need to include Pacifica's school code (G31268) to ensure the results of your application are forwarded to the school. Please visit Pacifica's Financial Aid page at admissions_financial.html for more information.

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