Oregon State University

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Staff
Updated August 6, 2020

Oregon State University boasts a prestigious history dating back to a single building that was constructed in 1856. Today it occupies 400 acres in Corvallis, Oregon as well as several satellite facilities around the state. Moreover, the university operates well-respected online degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral level that are open to students worldwide.

The modern university is a far cry from the 1856 Corvallis Academy, which provided a primary education to local children. The institution became the state agricultural college a mere two years later, and thrived in this capacity until 1937 when its programs had become sufficiently diversified to merit a change of name to Oregon State College. It gained its current title in 1961, and has continued to grow and flourish since. More than 30,000 students enroll there every year. The institution has an excellent reputation as a public research facility, enabling it to attract top scientists and students. In its 12 colleges, Oregon State University provides students with 200 undergraduate degree choices, 80 graduate programs and nearly 3,500 exceptionally well-qualified faculty members who offer instruction both in class and online.

Oregon State University Accreditation Details

As a reputable educational institution, Oregon State University has received accreditation on a regional level through the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Such an accreditation assures students that they will receive a quality educational experience in an institution recognized for its academic rigor and integrity. The university is regularly re-examined by the Commission to ensure its continuing efforts to improve curricula and facilities. Oregon State University is further accredited by the Oregon State Board of Higher Education, which provides authorization for the college to confer degrees and certificates. Online degree programs are accredited in the same manner as the on campus classes.

Oregon State University Application Requirements

The admissions process at the university is completed almost entirely online. Exceptions occur when personal interviews are required for certain graduate and post-graduate programs. Through the online application system students can upload all required credentials, forms and reference letters.

Admissions is a competitive process with certain aspects pertaining to all degree programs. Acceptance into a particular program may require additional materials. Moreover, candidates should be mindful of the various deadlines for receipt of application materials. Not only does the university set application deadlines, but also individual programs may set deadlines that are considerably earlier. The application process begins when the student fills out an application form and pays the non-refundable fee. Additional materials like academic records and recommendations may be uploaded with the application.

Programs at the graduate and doctoral level require proof of completion of previous degrees. Students must also provide proof that they maintained an appropriate grade point average while obtaining these credentials. Applicants should be aware that the university looks at prior academic performance and personal conduct when making admissions decisions. Depending upon the program, the student may be required to complete an on-campus interview with faculty from the program of their choice. Applications may remain pending for several weeks after submission. This largely depends on the schedule and availability of necessary faculty members. Candidates can track the status of their application using the same online system through which the documentation was originally submitted.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Full-time admission to Oregon State University requires enrollment in 12 credit hours per quarter. At the graduate level, credit hours may be between $430 and $575. Students enrolled in online programs pay similar tuition rates. In addition, new students signal their intent to enroll after admission by making an Advance Tuition Deposit some weeks before the beginning of the term. There is also a matriculation fee and a workshop fee that may apply to online students. It's important to note that online students do not pay for credit hours at the non-resident rate. Regardless of where they are in the world, they are able to enjoy in-state tuition prices. Both federal and state financial aid programs are available to students who enroll for at least six credits in an undergraduate program or five credits in a graduate program. Students hoping for financial aid must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, indicating Oregon State University as their chosen school. The university may also award need based grants to qualified students and several scholarships are available.

Oregon State University Online Ph.D. in Counseling Program

Students who enroll in the Ph.D. in Counseling program will encounter many challenges as they develop their clinical skills. Graduates of the program are prepared to become an advanced counseling practitioner. Others choose to take on supervisory or academic roles. The program at Oregon State University is not a teacher licensing program. Students hoping to become teachers may have to take other classes and pass any licensure exams.

The Ph.D. in Counseling degree program is offered in a combined online and face-to-face learning environment. While many courses are taught online, students are nonetheless required to travel to Wilsonville, Oregon twice per quarter of their enrollment. These in-person sessions consist of two day weekends in which students participate in highly interactive clinical practice and discussion. When students are accepted into a program they enter as part of a cohort, meaning that they will remain with peers enrolling at the same time for the length of their matriculation. The program can be completed in three years, but most people need four to finish and some may require five.

Participants can expect a challenging curriculum that examines modern clinical practice and the obstacles that counselors face daily. The coursework is varied, including opportunities to hone counseling skills and acquire supervisory techniques. Students may also pick up the rudiments of counselor education and also confront diversity and social issues that are likely to affect their practice in the future. Internship practice is also a component of the program. Since students are already practicing counselors, most of them are able to complete internship requirements through their existing employment.

One hundred fifty hours of study are required to graduate. Students who hold a Master's in Counseling may transfer as many as 56 hours from that coursework to be applied to the Ph.D. program. The Oregon State University program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, assuring students of a reputable educational experience.

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