Pre-graduate Certification Program FAQs
1. Why is it necessary to enter the Pre-graduate Certification
Program (PCP)?
This step is necessary for individuals who hold a university degree in an area other than communicative disorders. WCU's PCP program provides individuals with the core courses that are prerequisite for application to a graduate program in communicative disorders. Courses are
drawn from the Department of Communicative Disorders and other departments representing a cross-section of the undergraduate curriculum in communicative
disorders.
2. What are the requirements for admission to the Pre-graduate Certification Program?
Admission to the program is competitive and is open to all students who
have successfully completed a bachelor's or higher degree, regardless of
major. Approximately 20-30 students per year are accepted to the program.
Admission requires an applicant to have earned an overall grade point average (GPA)
of at least 2.75 (on a 4.0 point scale) as an undergraduate. The applicant
must also present a favorable letter of recommendation from an individual who
is familiar with the applicant's academic skills.
3. What is the process for admission?
The process is simply to 1) complete and return the
Pre-graduate Certification Application Form, 2) submit official transcripts
from all academic institutions attended, and 3) submit one letter of
recommendation addressing academic skills. Return all information to:
Pre-graduate Certification Program
West Chester University of Pennsylvania
Department of Communicative
Disorders
201 Carter Drive
West Chester, PA
19383
Deadline for application is February 15th.
If you have questions concerning the admission process, please call the
department office (610-436-3401).
4. How can I get additional information about the department and its
programs?
The fastest way to get additional information is by accessing our homepage
on the World Wide Web. Our MainPage
contains information about our department: its programs,
courses, facilities and faculty.
5. If I enter the program and complete it, am I guaranteed admission to
the graduate program at WCU?
No. Admission to the Pre-graduate Certification Program does not imply a guarantee
of admission to graduate study in the WCU Department of Communicative
Disorders. Students in the Pre-graduate Certification Program typically apply for admission to our graduate
program as well as to several other programs.
6. How long does it take to complete the program?
The Pre-graduate Certification Program offers both a one-year and a two-year track. Both tracks begin with
introductory courses
offered during the first five-week summer session (mid-May through late June)
and finish either one year or two years later in the summer.
STUDENTS
MUST BE AVAILABLE FOR DAY CLASSES
7. Can I shorten the program if I have already taken some of the courses?
Yes. Many students who enter the program have already taken one or more
courses that are part of the program. The program is designed to permit you to
receive credit for your previous coursework, when applicable.
8. Who is available in the department to help me with the program?
Once you've been accepted into the program, your advisor will meet with you
to discuss the course sequence and scheduling process. For information about the Pre-graduate Certification Program, contact:
Dr. Elizabeth U. Grillo
Telephone: (610) 436-2132
e-mail:
egrillo@wcupa.edu
