Chicago School of Professional Psychology Review at Educator® – College and Univeristy Reviews and Ratings

Chicago School of Professional Psychology Review

130 Comments Published by admin September 26th, 2008 in Online College Reviews

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is a respected leader in the field of education and is the largest graduate school in the country. It prepares students to practice as professionals in the field of psychology. The school’s commitment towards education and innovation is reflected in the care meted out to the students. Students who join the graduation programs turn into compassionate and skilled leaders in psychology, with the inclination to serve the under-served communities. This is the best place for students looking to pursue a degree in the behavioural sciences. The school has been successful in creating professionals instilled with values, such as professionalism and a commitment to their work and their communities.

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology was founded in 1979 by a group of professional psychologists and the Midwestern Psychology Development Foundation. Their aim was to create a non-profit school where students could get a degree in behavioural sciences. It is situated in downtown Chicago on the banks of the Chicago River. The school has more than 1,300 students enrolled and most of them are female. The school is a Full Member of the National Council of Schools and Programs of Professional Psychology since 1984 and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges. The faculty consists of highly experienced and respected leaders and teachers who make it possible for students to gain access to real-life situations.

Students who are unable to attend school on campus can make use of the numerous online options available. These courses are designed to even cater to students with the busiest schedules. For students who wish to get higher education in behavioural sciences, the Chicago School of Professional Psychology is the most popular choice among professional psychologists. There are many specialty degrees in fields related to psychology both at the Master’s and Doctoral levels. Programs include Psy.D. and M.A. in Clinical Psychology, M.A. in Clinical Psychology – Counseling; M.A. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology; M.A. in Forensic psychology; and Ed.S in School Psychology. The school also has many certificate programs and some of their continuing education options are Leadership for Healthcare Professionals, Latino Mental Health and Applied Forensic Psychology. Students are encouraged to clarify all their doubts by asking questions, conduct research projects and get to know the communities where they will later practice professional psychology. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology believes in diversity and is very popular with students from all over the world.

It has a program called Diversity and Global Studies, where students are made aware of a variety of dynamics that affect psychology in different environments, even in the disadvantaged populations. Students are allowed to interact with fellow classmates and their professors using online discussion boards. They also have the option of emailing or calling the faculty with any concerns they may have.

Students can take part in a wide variety of programs such as social justice programs, international human rights activities and several other such projects. With so much attention to detail given by the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, it is no wonder it attracts thousands of students each year.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Have you studied at Chicago School of Professional Psychology?

Please provide a brief review of your experience at Chicago School of Professional Psychology in the comment section to help other readers!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Be Sociable, Share!

130 Responses to “Chicago School of Professional Psychology Review”

Trackback Address

1 Nicole Oct 23rd, 2008 at 7:44 am

Too bad they don’t mention how horrible the administration is. The school seems to be a soap opera. For a psychology school you’d be surprised to find out how little communication takes place among the administration and teachers and then down to the students.
2 Victoria May 11th, 2009 at 12:13 pm

I agree with Nicole. This school has the ABSOLUTE WORST administration. They are very unsupportive, hypocritical, and unorganized. The professionalism they expect from students is not the same professionalism they exhibit. I can go on and on, but just know that if you want to go to that school for forensics, make sure it is your absolute last option.
3 Me Jul 8th, 2009 at 5:15 pm

I think this school really sucks. it has no support for international students and it treats students as the last priority.

Some of the teachers discriminate among students and students have never had an opportunity to connect with their professors.

I would say dont even keep it as an option. Just avoid the place or go get a job
4 student Jul 29th, 2009 at 2:18 pm

These previous messages are pretty interesting. How on earth did I have the exact opposite experience at the Chicago School? I was able to meet and get to know any professor I wanted to. All of the faculty I worked with had open door policies that allowed me to visit, ask advice, and get to know them on deeper levels. The administration did their job and I did mine. I think the problem lies here:

If you want your hand held through graduate school, if you want to be force-fed opportunities in which to experience personal growth, and if you want to have Financial Aid money fall effortlessly out of the sky, through your bank’s window, and into your checking account, then BY GOD you are in the wrong graduate school. You don’t belong here. This is a school for adults, not adolescents. The school has plenty of opportunites to present to you, but it’s up to you to take them or leave them. The administration will bend over backwards to help you if you respect them, their jobs, and their abilities. The faculty will work with you if you show them effort, come to class, and turn in your work on time.

Here are some quick life-lessons:

Life isn’t fair.
It’s time to grow up.
Disappointments and hardships are part of life.
You are not really a princess.
5 Unbelievable Sep 25th, 2009 at 5:52 pm

“student” actually sounds like someone from the administration, as this is the mantra they proport. I’m very dissappointed in this school and its early in my experience with them. I agree mostly with the other reviews than “student”‘s review. I am a nontraditional student who already has a graduate degree in psychology and I find the culture to be troubling and the instructors subpar. I will likely transfer to a PhD program with more seasoned professionals.
6 Students Nov 3rd, 2009 at 9:27 pm

I agree with “student”, everyone that complains about this school is because they want to be treated like children. I personally enjoy the faculty, the administration and everyone at TCS. I am not surprised though that complaints were the first things posted, I think a good word to describe these students that complain so much is entitled, you’re not here paying for your degree, you need to grow up and earn it, this is what grad school is all about. My experience has been really good, the faculty is great and if you keep up with paper work, like a real adult, then you will not have problems with anyone at the school. If you feel unsupported then attend events and meet others, get out of your bubble. If you see something wrong with the school then bring it up to faculty but don’t just brag without taking into consideration that you might be the problem.
7 was interested Dec 15th, 2009 at 8:11 pm

I hate to say it, but I have looked at this school many times, curious about the forensic program. Reading these reviews, I am definately sure that this school will not even be considered anymore. It is painfully obvious that the two ‘good’ reviews were written by faculty and not students. It is very sad that someone at the school would go out of its way to call their students babies and ‘princess’ instead of taking these reviews with a grain of salt and seeing if just maybe there is some truth to them. It is called constructive criticism, and it seems like this faculty member is the one is acting like a child. I didn’t write this to make fun, I wrote this because I wanted to let the school now that genuinely unhappy students helped me make my decision on not attending this school, not ‘student’ or ‘students’, i.e. childish admin.
8 Lee Dec 28th, 2009 at 2:19 pm

Go on the website, above, and see just how treacherous and irrationally greedy and demanding, they are, and leave comments. A school in the helping professions should be a hell of a lot more than sudden, constant, fee-related demands and paperwork, with unreasonable time limits and costs, when working adults, going to school, are the subjects of its endeavor. To the two commenters who think otherwise: why are there normal, school administrations who have very little to do with their students, along these lines? It’s about respect for professionals who pay their salaries, that’s why.
9 lizz1438 Dec 31st, 2009 at 2:44 pm

DO NOT GO TO THIS SCHOOL. I dropped out after a year b/c I didn’t learn a damn thing. The professor are horrible (I only had one that I really liked), the administration staff is disorganized, and they charge beyond what they should. It cost 60,000 just to get a Master’s degree, but you will be only making 35,000 in the counseling field. Right now I’m working shipping and recieving with a 27,500 salary (just barely making my monthly payments). If I were to continue with school I would be more financially screwed than I am now.
10 Walter Shade Jan 16th, 2010 at 2:28 am

FUCK THIS SCHOOL! My advice to anyone considering The Chicago School is to stay far away from it. It has been a miserable experience thus far.
11 LAcampus Jan 20th, 2010 at 6:34 pm

I attend the LA campus and it is HORRIBLE!!! I am trying to get out while I still can. Last semester, I came into this program believe that I would never have to take an online class because that is not what I signed up to. All the students in my class were given the same information however as the semester continued the course turned into a blended course (part online/ part in a classroom) then to a completely online course. None of the students or myself were notified about this change until we were half way through the semester. Then the ecollege would not work. The students and myself could not submit assignments or take the quizzes. We would email the professor and not hear back from her for weeks at a time or not at all. All the student got together to have a meeting with the professor and the head of our department, we were promised a change such as a new schedule for the course because there was only a month left in the semester and that the professor would meet with us when we had questions. However none of this happen. We continued to email the professor with questions but instead of helping us she assigned a teachers aid to help us. However, when attending the help meetings with the aid she had never spoke with the professor and had no idea what we were currently doing in the course. The students had another meeting with the head of the department and the professor once again were promised a change. However, it came down to three weeks left in the semester and we had to fit a semester’s worth of work into three weeks! At the end of the semester the professor grade 7 F’s out of 20 in the course. When she was emailed about questions about the grades and issues with them, she was rude and very UNPROFESSIONAL!!! Now it is into the spring semester and the students have been promised an action plan to have the grade replaced and action to teaching the students the information from the course that we never received. Now the head of the department is not longer answering emails or keeping us up to date on the status of an action plan. This school is not looking out for the best interest of it’s students!
12 Wow Jan 25th, 2010 at 10:05 pm

Wow. I have been looking into this school and just asked them to send me some info. I am saddened to read that their students are so unhappy with them. However, thanks to everyone who placed a review here! I am looking into a second career choice and don’t have the money or time to waste on a school that doesn’t treat their students with respect and dignity. I work extremily hard for my money and don’t want to give it to someone who’s going to be childish and call me a “princess”. I have no interest in learning Psychology from someone who posts reviews like that.

Due to the reviews here and the obvious fake reviews, I will not be looking into this school anymore.

Best wishes to everyone here on their future endevors!
13 Steve-the-Online-Student Feb 2nd, 2010 at 12:15 pm

First off, I am NOT employed by TSC. I am working in OD and studying online for an MA in I/O Psych. I’m in my second year and my experience is good overall. My research into the school showed it to be well regarded and well accredited and I saw that there is a Fulbright Scholar on faculty.

I’ve never done any distance learning, but I have a background in adult education. With that said, it took some getting used to, but my advisors, instructors (save one), student support and tech support have been responsive and helpful. Not perfect, mind you, but having worked for NYU for 9 years as an administrator, I’d say they were pretty good, if not very good.

I was also concerned that the program might “lack rigor,” which I think is something an online student should be careful about. Absolutely not the case. You are challenged to do graduate level work on time and on spec, sometimes with teams of people you’ll never see. It’s a lot of work and late nights. I have not have anywhere near the negative experience some of those above have had.

I’m a city kid and when I graduate I hope to go to Chicago to get my degree in person. It’s not for everybody, but I works for me.
Steve
14 Prospective student Feb 9th, 2010 at 2:31 pm

I’m looking to enroll in a PsyD ABA program at the Chicago School. Is there anyone currently enrolled or an alum who can give an honest review about the school and faculty?
15 LA Campus Feb 13th, 2010 at 2:44 am

It is remarkable to hear all of this negative feedback. I am definitely not an administrator or a professor, but a first year student. I am in the Master’s program from ABA and I have learned so much from such respected individuals in the field. They have done nothing but supported me. I cannot express how greatfull I am to have found this school that directly focuses on my field of choice. I will say that the assignments are a good load, but it is grad school! not high school! so buck up! I love this school and all it has to offer. The professors are sooooo supportive and get back to me as soon as they can. They are also helping their student earn hours for them to sit in on the board exam when they graduate.
16 Another Prospective Student Feb 20th, 2010 at 2:09 pm

I’m a prospective Ph.D.(Organizational Leadership) student and, while I find the previous responses disheartening, I also remember that people with bad experiences are far more likely to express their displeasure than people with positive experiences. However, does anyone have any comments about the program I’m looking at?
17 Online Student Mar 8th, 2010 at 7:01 pm

I’m presently a second semester online Forensic Psychology student. I would have to say thus far the school has been a positive experience for me. When I email the professors they get back to me in a timely manner. In addition, I’m provided with feed back on my papers that I submit.
18 Almost there Mar 14th, 2010 at 7:04 pm

Now I am really nervous. I am a propective international student about to sacrifice half my life and almost all my investments to attend TCS. I was apprehensive about the late responses and sometimes lack of it , especially from the financial aid dept. As much as I would like to keep an open mind, the reviews haven’t done much to help me make a decision. I have too much to lose to not get the best. I agree grad school is totally different from undergrad but there are more negative than positive comments. hmm…
19 Junior Spartan Mar 23rd, 2010 at 11:50 pm

Personally it is true to become more responsible as an adult and step up, but what the people were saying had nothing to do with being treated as you would say a child. If a program is not structured then it makes it difficult for the student to actually get the necessary equipment accomplished. The admissions office job is all about the students, they are responsible for helping students when help is needed. How does it make these people seem childish because they claim you are not doing your job. Obviously, those employees, who I feel are those “students”, hate the fact that they are being critized for not doing their job and they are claiming the students as being childish. As you told the students take responsibility I feel as if you should do the same. There are times in life when everyone needs help, and it is suppose to be there at all times because people make mistakes no one is perfect. I am not taking sides I think both should take in account the duties that are meant to be fulfilled.
20 danny Mar 25th, 2010 at 11:22 pm

Im a foreign student…i was seriously considering this school..but know im having second thoughts about it…should i waste my time and money applying to this school or should i look for another one?? or waste my time looking for a scholarship???.. is it really that bad??….in which other school i could study a master in forensic psychology??
21 CAUTION Mar 26th, 2010 at 5:29 pm

I attend the Irvine campus. This school is a total joke!! It’s over priced, unorganized, and unprofessional. I would urge anyone not to attend this program. Some of the professors that have been with the old program are great but I’m sure they will all be eventually fired. Don’t do it! It’s unbelievable that this school is run by psychologists.
22 Prospective student Apr 14th, 2010 at 8:50 am

I am not sure what to make of these reviews. Unfortunately, they seem to be polar opposites and not very many ‘middle of the line’ reviews. If anyone has any information or insight about the new doctoral program in International Psychology, I would love to hear it. With this being a new program and the only one of its kind out there, it is difficult to assess it. I would appreciate hearing feedback from doctoral level students, preferably. at the Chicago campus.
23 Current Student Apr 15th, 2010 at 4:48 pm

This school is horrible. I am a first term student and this will be my LAST term. Thank God I only started with one class instead of 2 – now I’m only $2500 in the hole. The classes are a joke and the administration is AWFUL!!

Do not go here!!
24 not happy Apr 15th, 2010 at 6:41 pm

My experience was terrible. I was attending an VERY reputable state university for my Masters and transferred to TCS. The adminstration was great until I tried to drop before having to pay for the session. Getting information from financial aid was a nightmare. I was never given an exact amount of cost nor an exact amount of financial aid award. I rec’d my BS from a private university as an adult student and as stated above attended a state university and NEVER had any of the issues I did at TCS. I ended up owing more than $1000 for 1 week of class. I am now almost complete at the state university and very happy.
In case you are wondering why I wanted to transfer to begin with, I wanted a MS that was more forensic psychology bsed.
25 SEEKING GUIDANCE Apr 20th, 2010 at 1:37 pm

I’M LOOKING INTO THE ONLINE MASTERS IN FORENSIC PSYC. (I LIVE IN VA)
CAN ANYONE GIVE ME ANY INFO ON THE ONLINE FORENSIC PSYCH COURSE?
THX
26 Fraudulent Program Apr 20th, 2010 at 4:05 pm

The Chicago School in Southern California (Westwood and Irvine) are completely B.S. programs with faculty members that are either ignorant, misinformed, or lazy.

As said before, the administration is extremely disorganized and chaotic.

Bottom line, TCS is only concerned about getting top dollar for a sub par education. I wouldn’t recommend this program to anyone. I’d also be careful about administration’s response to your complaints, they are quite the smooth talkers.
27 newly accepted student Apr 20th, 2010 at 6:21 pm

i was happy to hear that i got accepted but i was not sure, i felt really cautious. from the beginning just asking for info they never got back to me, i had to keep calling and even then i never got a response. i finally decided just to fill out the application then i finally got some attention. the fact the they wanted unoffical transpricts was interesting and allthey talking about was money. it seemed that was all they cared about. after all the negative reviews i have decided not to attend this school, there are other schools that have some negative and some positive but this school has way to many negative views to take the chance.
28 CONCERNED PARENT Apr 26th, 2010 at 2:16 pm

We thought we had done our research well before my daughters enrollment. I agree that the program is over priced per semester. The information provided as far as financial aid and payment overall for the school is the worst I have seen. I am very disappointed with the way in which my daughter was treated in regards to her financial aid and the program overall. The staff has been unprofessional and give different information on her financing dependent on now what is convenient. I plan on contacting The Board of Education in Washington, D.C. to look into not just this situation but others as well.

BY ALL MEANS STAY AWAY FROM THIS ONLINE SCHOOL–THEY ARE NOT WHAT THEY PORTRAY THEMSELVES TO BE….DESPITE WHAT “STUDEN”-WHICH I DOUBT IS A STUDENT-SAYS…
29 CONCERNED PARENT Apr 26th, 2010 at 2:17 pm

lol–I MEANT TO SAY “STUDENT”–MSP
30 Jake May 13th, 2010 at 3:18 pm

Does anyone have information on their PhD in International Psych program. I see that someone said that it’s fairly new.
31 moi May 13th, 2010 at 7:10 pm

hello LA Campus – grateful is spelled grateful – not the marvelous faux pas written oh well……..

I am grateful to have found these honest reviews – I must withdraw as well
32 Ariana May 24th, 2010 at 5:54 pm

I’m going to be a fourth year undergrad at UIowa this fall, so I’m thinking about graduate schools for clinical psych. I saw an ad for this school hanging in a campus building. I’m really thinking about attending this school (Chicago’s a great location) but I would prefer a PhD. in clinical and I don’t think they offer that. Does anyone have any experience at the Chicago campus?
Thanks!
33 Sadly disapointed Jun 12th, 2010 at 8:02 am

That does it for me. I was about 90% decided in favor of The Chicago School’s online M.A. in I/O Psychology, because that is what I truly want to major in for my Masters deI/Ogree and I have to get it online. .But I had my suspicions…………Does anyone know of a***reputable ***online Master’s program in I/O Psychology???
34 Prospective Student Jun 17th, 2010 at 4:22 am

I was just about to waste my money but thanks to everyone who left a review you have just saved me a big headache and financial burden. I thought the PhD in international psychology was great but i will look elsewhere thank you all
35 Psy D gal Jun 26th, 2010 at 12:12 pm

PLEASE PLEASE give advice, reviews from the IRVINE Campus in CA. I am thinking of enrolling this fall for the Psy. D program and the MA program is so consumed with negative reviews. what other programs are available in Orange County other than Pepperdine and Chapman for PSY D only? I already have my MA.

Please help advise!
36 David --- First Year PhD Student Jun 28th, 2010 at 11:16 am

Hello,

I am currently a student in the PhD OL program and have nothing but great things to say about the program. The Chicago School is more than just an online school and fits my specific needs with a quality education and flexible to my work schedule.

My experience seems to be much different than other people on this site- the staff has been great, my current professor is receptive to my emails and provides great feedback on my assignments, and I love learning about organizational psychology. If there was one thing I would change about the program it would be more ways to communicate with my fellow classmates.

Overall, I would recommend this school to my friends and family.
37 RAR - Las Vegas Jun 29th, 2010 at 11:31 am

Yes, Colorado State has an online Masters in I/O.
38 RAR - Las Vegas Jun 29th, 2010 at 11:39 am

Does anyone have any good information on CSPP? The Psy.D. is accredited by the APA – which is a pretty good indicator to use to validate a program.
39 Nino Jul 3rd, 2010 at 11:02 pm

I have attended the M.A. program in Forensic Psychology on-line at The Chicago School (TCS) for about a year now. I just completed a B.S. in Criminal Justice on-line from Kaplan University in June 2009. TCS’s admission advisor was very helpful as well as the financial aid counselors. The instructors at TCS seem very knowledgeable in their disciplines and post their academic, and personal achievements, on the syllabus of each class. The school is expensive, I probably need to see a psychologist myself, but TCS provides the field of study I desire to pursue following over 20 years of law enforcement. Many of my on-line classmates are also seasoned veterans who are looking to expand their careers in the behavioral sciences.

Prior to my decision to attend TCS, I obtained information from several schools offering on-line courses in criminal behavior and forensic psychology. I found TCS, the last school I looked-at, to offer the curriculum that best fit my personal needs to accomplish my future goals (teaching). A lot of self-motivation and dedication is required to successfully accomplish the requirements and deadlines for each week’s course work.

Each person has to decide what best fits their goals and lifestyle. Previous educational experiences might seem better or worse than those puported in the above posts. I’m sticking with TCS, it’s working-out fine for me.
40 May apply Jul 13th, 2010 at 8:35 pm

I would really like some examples of why this school is good or bad instead of hasty opinions. I am seriously considering this school and I do not believe that anyone here knows whether or not the good reviews were written by administrators. Can someone please leave some realistic feedback on what happened in your experience instead of purging your emotions online? I would really appreciate a well written, unemotional review. Not holding my breath here for it but it doesn’t hurt to ask…
41 Current PsyD student Jul 14th, 2010 at 1:10 pm

i am a 2nd year student in the psy.d program in westwood and i have to agree with about 90% fo the reviews. however, i must also interject and say that most of these people probably couldn’t withstand the rigor of their respective programs. i am transfer from a psy.d that was about to lose accreditation and therefore was able to attend TCS so long as they transferred the max amount of units for me. the admin definately has their issues, but they are the same issues that any large professional school would have. most of the frustration vented on this blog are those that are anxious, and stressed from the loans and demands of their programs, but don’t let it deter you from your dreams if you wish to enter TCS.

what most these ppl dont understand is that grad school is not a walk in the park, and much like life, you will encounter challenges, miscommunication, and lack of response at times in your life.

i wish the very best for those newly admitted and deciding to go to TCS, and if not, i wish you the best in your endeavors.
42 Online Student Jul 15th, 2010 at 11:38 am

To “Another Prospective Student”:

I’m in the PhD Organizational Leadership program, I’m in the first term. It is an interesting program so far and going to school online is a new experience for me. Everyone seems helpful and there have been a couple of administrative snafus but overall the experience has been good. I went to a private university for undergrad and public university for my MA, so I’ve been through different sizes of schools and their processes.

The program is rigorous but structured, I spend about 10 to 15 hours per week on class assignments and I like that it is one class every 8 weeks. In the end, once you get used to how everything is structured, it is pretty easy to follow.
43 concerned student Aug 3rd, 2010 at 2:37 am

hey friends…
thanks for your reviews… but is it really bad.. i mean the programs they provide are really nice and exactly what i wanted…i am doing my majors in psychology in India and would really love to do their forensic psychology or I/O psychology course on campus… but now after reading all this i am having second thoughts…
can anyone tell me some more good colleges which offer the same course?
would be really very helpful thanks a lot
44 WOW, REALLY?!! Aug 6th, 2010 at 9:26 pm

I must say that it is very disappointing to sit here and read all of the discrediting reviews about this school. Normally I review things from a very unbiased perspective. I must be impartial and say that IT IS TRUE that people are more inclined to report when something NEGATIVE opposed to positive; HOWEVER, there is simply a margin that one must account when considering negative comments.

It is very difficult to consider attending this school with all of the NEGATIVE reactions from its students; I mean they FAR outweigh the positives on most sites that I have had the opportunity to review!

Oh we, CSP… ya got to do BETTER :-l
(*I was thinking about the I/O Psych program but I have just scratched this school off my list!)
45 WOW, REALLY?!! Aug 6th, 2010 at 9:30 pm

oops *I meant TCS or Chicago School of Psych…. and a few other typos but the understanding is CLEAR…I hope!
46 Prospective Student? Aug 24th, 2010 at 7:51 pm

I’ve been searching for an online I/O PSY (MS) program that is reliable and respectable and fits my needs. From my research, this school is the best (yet). Does anyone know of any other online I/O program out there? I looked at the Colorado State that someone has suggested and it doesn’t offer it online. It seems like the online students are far more satisfied than the on-campus students in these reviews…
47 Mark Sep 2nd, 2010 at 4:19 am

I am a current student at TCS and I agree with the majority of the reviews. The administration sucks. I have been trying to get them to send an “in school deferment” form to my student loans for 6 months, and to date nothing has been received but they always tell me they “sent it” but magically nothing is ever received. This is going to be my last class because I really feel that this is just a huge scam. I had a class where the teacher very obviously did not read the material in the papers I had written. I also do not get how 3 classes in I am still being forced to take classes that quiz me on my APA formatting. Seriously? If I do not know how to properly format a paper, give me a bad grade, don’t make me take numerous classes on proper APA formatting. That is why I have an APA manual that I got during my undergrad. This school is a complete joke. The work is horribly easy. I spend a total of MAYBE 90 minutes a week on each class and I always get A’s. So far, what I have learned is that a sucker is born every minute and 1/2 of those suckers enroll at this school. Im going to go back to the University of Phoenix. At least they had their admin in check.
48 STOPCRYING Sep 2nd, 2010 at 7:26 pm

People who complain are just a bunch of cry babies that’s why you all didn’t make it to any other school. Yes the administration office is bad but some school’s admin is bad as well. If we all lived in a perfect world, why would we go to school? For those of you who talk so much crap, go find an online school that is not for profit offering a Ph.d.
TCS chicago campus is APA accredited in which only prestigious schools earn, many state universities are not even APA accredited yet. SO try to commit to get a Ph.D from TCS, let’s see how long you last. I bet all you got was a worthless Bachelor degree.

I am a current Ph.D OL and I can tell you that the professor all have Ph.D and 15 yrs in the field.

Maybe the problem is your attitude not the school. Don’t judge the school as whole because of the admin staff mediocre job.
49 Sad! Sep 3rd, 2010 at 5:08 pm

I have read everyone’s review of TCS and I am saddened by many of the remarks. Recently, I completed my ARP and I am awaiting my degree conferral. Most of my education has been achieved through online programs. Unfortunately, having a disabled child has prevented me from attending traditional brick-and-mortar schools. I found the course work to be rigorous and the expectations to be high geared toward the essential requirements of the field.

I did and do find the administrative staff to be slightly dysfunctional however; the school has experienced rapid growth over the past two years. Branching out into online programs and new ground campus sites can be difficult and requires greater levels of hand holding then most would anticipate.

I would have to agree slightly with the comments on the administrative staff. Had the administration generated more functional emails in regard to conferral processes, course start date reminders, and kept communication lines open this really would be a state of the art experience.

I do believe that most individuals expect grad school to be similar to undergrad programs. At this point in the academic career, yes career, individuals should have the ability to thoroughly research and discern between the ample information available.

To the concerned parent, as a parent I understand your need to protect your child and expose any inferred injustice however; your child is seeking a professional degree and should be at the professional level. In short, those of you considering TCS or any other professional institution should be ready to self-guide, self-motivate, and capable of independent thought.

This is your career, your future, your destiny; why leave it in the hands of administrators to guide you. When you are a professional you act as a professional.
50 Prospective Student Sep 7th, 2010 at 3:43 am

I have considerded attending this school for the M.A in I/O. Rather than saying “the school sucks, its horrible” Can someone that is in the program tell me about your experience? ( No side opinions or extra) Just tell me what your experience has been like while attending…. Thank you!
51 TCS Student Sep 22nd, 2010 at 9:22 pm

This is the first time I’ve ever posted on a random site but am compelled to do so after reading this completely unfair commentary about TCS. In fact, I’m putting my homework off at this late hour just to add to this. I am a first year student (studying Organizational Leadership) and so far, I have found the program to be very rigorous and the online structure, easy to use. Since I did not want to spend money for a graduate degree without visiting the facility and meeting some of the staff in person first, I took a trip to Chicago over the summer to check out the campus for myself. I have found the staff and faculty to be very helpful, professional and easy to work with. When I ask a question or have a concern, it has been answered immediately (which is one advantage of this school against one of the massive institutions where you get lost in the herd). So far, I have no complaints. My financial aid advisor has been very helpful as well and even emailed to wish me a happy birthday.

And for those of you who were thinking about TCS and changed your mind about the school after skimming a few online posts by random unknowns (probably paid by competing institutions), I hope you will choose to give it another look and do some more in-depth research. I don’t know about you, but in making serious decisions, I find it hard to trust the opinions of people who can’t form sentences and use the “F” bomb and “suck” to describe their thoughts about the matter.
52 Daniel Oct 5th, 2010 at 9:22 am

I’m in the online Organizational Leadership PhD program and have been satisfied with my experience. Online learning takes a great deal of personal initiative and for that reason isn’t the best option for many students. As for the complaints posted in this forum, I can assure you that many other programs at other institutions also have similar problems that cannot be attributed solely to TCS. I am a graduate of a top-tier public university and a private Ivy League university and in these cases I experienced worse communication and poorer educational quality in some instances than what I have encountered at TCS. I’m sorry that some have been dissatisfied with TCS, but I encourage those folks to be honest in their expectations and truly evaluate their competencies in handling graduate education. Also, anyone that bases their intent to enroll solely based on a few bad reviews from an un-moderated forum probably lack the necessary skills to perform at a graduate level.
53 Not worth it! Oct 10th, 2010 at 12:36 pm

Hi All,

I attended TCS PsyD, Westwood, got straight A’s, and although it is accredited, none of my classes were accepted at the other accredited school–because thought they make you jump through the hoops–this is just a business, not a good school. They will NOT teach you how to be a good clinician simply because only one out of ten professors are terrible at what they do. TCS uses 90% of the same professors from CGI–which wasn’t accredited–for a reason!!!! When it comes down to it, most of your learning is going to come from your training sites–so if you must choose TCS –take the time to really research where you do you practicum. I would add–the cirriculum is not hard–your just have to pay extra for the disorganization and for their own learning curve….
54 Graduate Oct 21st, 2010 at 10:30 pm

I just completed the MA Forensic Psychology program online. While the school is very expensive, I found the program to be challenging and informative. The advisors and professors were attentive, and always responded to any questions within 24 hours. For my research project, my advisor extended herself and offered extra assistance because the process was grueling! (lol)

Most of the classes, I found to be challenging and learned new information I could apply to my future. The classes I didn’t find challening was merely because I have been in the Criminal Justice field for over 10 years, so some skills/knowledge were just known (i.e. the Basic Interviewing Skills class).

Good luck with your decision!
55 David Oct 22nd, 2010 at 9:15 am

I think it is important to consider all the facts before anyone makes rash decisions based on blogs / opinions / emotions. And, It is completely plausible that other universities are flooding their competitor’s blogs to drum up doubt aka business.

It is extremely difficult for any university to gain APA accreditation and The Chicago School for Professional Psychology has done so albeit for a select brick and mortar program in Clinical Psychology.

However, if you want facts you must begin to act like a true researcher and not rely on the opinions of others. I see a generational wave of younger students putting too much validity in hands of others and not doing the grunt work.

I am asking each reviewer to ask relevant and purposeful question prior to signing up for any academic program or anything in life that obligates you financially, morally, and ethically.

Life is full of charlatans but the biggest one could be you blindly relying on information from others who based their opinions on unfounded / unreasonable expectations.

I may or may not enroll at The Chicago School for Professional Psychology but it has nothing to do with the reviews I have read to date. It will be based on rigorous fact finding and assessment; as what will be required for each of you if you pursue any advanced degree in life.

Be smarter than the rest and be vigilant or you will be lead off the cliff with the rest of the flat world thinkers…
56 Carolina girl Nov 3rd, 2010 at 2:03 pm

Run…do not walk…way from this school!

I was very excited to find an online forensic psychology program. I thought the first two classes in the program were fine. In the third course, I had technical difficulties with uploading the assignment. I called technical support where I was told someone would have to “research the problem” and get back with me. No ever called me back. Afraid I would was getting too far behind to catch up, I tried to withdraw from the class. Now the nightmare really began. I called the registrar who told me that I had to go through the online school. No where could I find the form or person to contact. I called and left messages with student services. No one called me back. I finally walked away, took an F (I graduated from the George Washington University with a 4.0). and kissed 8000 dollars away in student loans. Several weeks ago, I received a letter for CSPP stating that I owed for another course that I was enrolled in without my knowledge or permission. I called the number on the bill and to my shock and surprise…I got some one’s voice mail. No one called me back! Now I am getting letters from a collection agency. I wrote the collection agency back and told them my situation. Now someone for CSPP is calling me back…but has to verfiy that I was never in the class, and now this person cannot get anyone in the online school to return calls…I have never been so disgusted in my life.

I think the brick-and-mortar school may be okay…but the online program is not worth the hassle and headaches!!
57 John Nov 6th, 2010 at 6:10 pm

Iam thinking of joining the M.A ABA program. How is the program in general , are the professors knowledgable, is the price worth it?
58 Therapist Jim Nov 13th, 2010 at 3:14 pm

It has been five years since the Program Director herself told my dissertation committee what she thinks is an acceptable proposal and what isn’t, obviously an overreach by a troubled adult trying to have her way as a child would. Days before” defense”, after she caused almost an 18 month delay where I could not even have direct contact with the committee (I was paying for), the PD, cut off all three sets of marbles (mine and those of my committee – preventing the final stage of the doctorate.

This is a freaking 60 minutes (CBS) story — except psychotherapists are 99% liberals and so is CBS (no, really).

She is not the only embarrassment to the School. All those who condoned and supported this ill administrator will be judged in the afterlife – or afterHell.

The School uses a bully attorney to shield them from who knows what — where they hid the bodies possibly (metaphorically speaking).

Clearly, I am not the only one who has suffered from a mentally ill corporate culture. They advertise their Greatness in Psychology today — what a truly small mind the culture has wrought.

Now, they are telling the public I “dropped out.” Actually, I earned a PsyD ABD (all but dissertation) due to this professor/program director with severe obsessive compulsive tendencies — I would have to do a full clinical to confirm my initial hypothesis.

Rot in Hell Chicago School.

Sincerely,

Still Damaged PsyD – ABD
59 Considering this school Nov 14th, 2010 at 7:55 pm

Wow. These reviews are kinda scary. I really was considering this school to get my Masters in Counseling Psych. Can someone really break down why they dont like it. I do agree that these reviews are very polar and I would just like a better idea of what the problems are.
60 Troy Nov 19th, 2010 at 3:07 pm

I can tell you all that over the past 6 months I have looked up every college that offers and online or blended program from Auburn, Tennesee, Southern Miss, Michigan, Wisonsin, Indiana Weslyn, St.Cloud State, Regent, Mountain State, etc, etc, etc,. All the ones that you have all seen as well. It doesnt matter which one you look up on these review sites, there always seems to be more than less who bitch about the school.

It is frustrating for those of us who are looking for honest input to read flat out complaining which is usually very general. Instead of saying “the professors are a joke” how about a real example or two. Instead of saying “the administration sucks” how about a real like example of why. If you ask me my guess is that the CSP is probably a good school but because of the number of students, and the fact that usually only those who can handle it complain, it will get a bad rap like every other school on this site.

If you are wondering about the school call the North Central Higher Learning people. They will tell you there outcomes of keeping them accreditted vs. listending to the complainers on this site.
61 Troy Nov 19th, 2010 at 3:08 pm

Sorry for the typos. I wrote in a hurry so I wasnt wasting my time.
62 Rocco Nov 19th, 2010 at 6:41 pm

I am considering attending the Irvine campus for the psy.d program. In reading many of the reviews, I understand the frustration with the administration. However, what is the practical effect of that? In other words, does it impact my ability to get classes? Am I going to be able to get through the program in a timely manner? Do most professors respond quickly to emails? Does the administration respond to questions in a satisfactory manner? Any information and opinions would be helpful.
63 Former CSOPP STUDENT Dec 7th, 2010 at 12:13 pm

Do NOT attend this school. It is a HORRIBLE institution with a completely unethical administration. Many of the professors are wonderful and I feel badly that they are associated with such a horrendously unorganized, rude, and unethical administration. I am a former masters and doctoral student in the Clinical Psy.D. program. Without going into details here, I will only say this, I am considering a lawsuit to collect tuition paid to the Chicago School after attending for more than 4 years and from stopping this administration from continuing their greedy ways. Please save yourself from making the same mistake as me. And if you are a former or current student and would like to know more about my lawsuit, PLEASE contact me at csoppshock@hotmail.com.
64 Former CSOPP STUDENT Dec 7th, 2010 at 12:26 pm

Having read through the reviews–I would say that “UNBELIEVABLE” hit the nail on the head. “STUDENT” does sound like part of the administration (especially the sarcastic princess comment at the end). Whether they are or are not–this is the type of professionalism you can expect should you ever need to interact with the administration on most things. Shocking unprofessionalism…even in the form of emails. You would think they would be more cautious about writing in such a way over a mode of communication that can be printed. And also-keep in mind–they have your degree in their hands and WILL absolutely remind you of that should you want to do or say anything against them.
65 Irvine Student Dec 15th, 2010 at 10:56 am

I am a current student at the Irvine Campus. I think the program has been good so far. I just finished up my first semester. The classes were not too shabby, and the professors were wonderful. They really do want you to succeed. As for problems with the administration, I have yet to encounter any, but I have not needed to deal with them either so I can’t comment on that. Overall it has been a good experience thus far. Just wanted to share my two cents. It does worry me to see all the negative comments especially since I am a current student. But, like I said, its not that bad.
66 This school is a JOKE Dec 18th, 2010 at 10:11 pm

The tuition is ridiculous. If you want to spend that much money then go to a REAL institution not this sham.

The administration is completely full of itself & fully ignores any issues that the student body brings to them.

The faculty (with a few exceptions) are half brain dead. They are the rejects that wouldn’t find work at (yet again) a REAL institution.

The classes are dry, boring, largely uninformative. I learned more in a since undergrad class than I did in a semester here.

I ended up leaving after that semester. I applied & was accepted in UCLA (my heart is in research). One of the faculty members who reviews my app told me that I did more damage to my transcript & official records by having this school associated with my name than anything else. It made them questions whether they wanted me in their program. WOW.

DO NOT APPLY!
67 Dennis Clark Dec 22nd, 2010 at 11:32 pm

My name is Dennis and I started the PhD in Organizational Leadership in August 2010. I expected the program to be challenging. As an online/blended format course, I expected to carefully plan and manage my time, keeping close watch on due dates and setting aside the time I would need for revisions. All of my expectations have been met and I am finally hitting my stride with one semester behind me.

Make no mistake; the work is hard and requires more precision and thought than an undergraduate degree. Unlike a Masters program where you need to learn a topic and apply it, the PhD program requires that you analyze and research topics in different disciplines and synthesize your own new ideas. What distinguishes the Doctoral student from candidates of other degrees is the ability to create and express new ideas that build upon a body of existing knowledge. That takes time, patience, and intelligent work.

In the asynchronous learning format at TCS, it is possible to learn from your cohort just as you do from the reading material. Your cohort becomes your learning partner. They not only review your work but also challenge you to dig deeper into ideas in unexpected ways. If you’re lucky, your cohort will challenge you as much or more than the instructor will. The creativity of the cohort is exposed in the threaded discussions, which I look forward to and frequently check for new entries.

If you lack self-discipline, The Chicago School is not the place for you. It is the student’s responsibility to read the material, complete the work, hand it in on time, and make sure that it is top shelf quality. That means reading and re-reading, checking for errors in grammar, punctuation, paragraph structure, and listening to the the way the paper flows from one paragraph to the next. If you can’t write well, all is not lost. You can take a remedial writing class. I think there is a writing clinic at the campus, which is open to online learners. If you cannot develop the skill or if you just don’t have the stamina, you should consider different options.

While I can confidently say that The Chicago School professors I have had are more than qualified teachers, I admit that I only have experience in one program and then only for one semester. But so far, I am getting my money’s worth. I do not qualify for US financial aid so this is coming out of my own pocket. Believe me when I tell you that I do not spend the money frivolously.

Coming to any graduate program requires a careful and honest assessment of personal ability, time, drive, commitment, and willingness to sacrifice much of your social time for school work. After reading many of these posts, I believe that much of the heartache and disappointment could have been avoided by starting with an honest personal assessment. If you are considering a graduate program, especially a PhD program, start here first.
68 Online Student Jan 1st, 2011 at 2:33 pm

Wow! I’m kind shocked and disturbed by all these negative reviews (specially the last one).

I am currently an online student in Masters in Psychology and I have had a very good experience with the school. The teachers have sometimes been hit or miss but the good teachers have been excellent. Some of the courses have been extremely challenging (incidentally these were the ones where the students complained the most). I have had no problems communicating with the professors. They’ve been available either through email or phone.

I also have had no problems with the administration. They’ve been very approachable, have processed financial aid on time etc. I took a session off and they were very prompt in providing me with the paper work etc. with no extra charge.

I hope the last response ‘this school is a joke’ is not true as I’ve spent a lot of money on this program and would not want it to be considered ‘damaging’ to my resume.

So if anybody is interested in applying to their MAP program, I’ve been very satisfied with it. It’s been a wonderful learning experience. Although one must realize that online learning is not easy. The student has to be focused, organized and independent. And at a graduate level, the student has to take the initiative to grow and learn independently.
69 4th Year Clinical Psy D Students Jan 6th, 2011 at 8:28 pm

I have been a student at TCS for four years and have had an enjoyable experience. I would also like to be honest and give an evaluation of my school that reflects both positive and negative aspects. I have worked as part of the student government for the last two years and have had the opportunity to interact with many students who have had a diverse range of experiences at TCS.
As for the negative aspects, many students have been disconcerted over the rapid growth of our school. Over the past ten years, TCS has expanded from a one trick pony, offering only one program, to a bi-coastal institution that boasts numerous programs. With this growth has come typical growing pains such as faculty and staff turnover, inconsistent communication between staff and student, and a feeling of being a small fish in a big pond. I believe the current administration is doing better at addressing these malfunctions, although they definitely still have work to do (as can be expected in any institution). Recently, staff have been given clearer job descriptions and work responsibilities, procedures are being put in place for more efficient communication during times of employee turnover, and the administration is trying to do a better job at giving students a voice in their community. As a student representative, I have attended numerous administrative meetings where student needs were given top priority, and my input was incorporated into many action plans.
On the flip side, I commiserate with my cohorts who have had less enjoyable experiences at TCS. Its hard to feel like your voice is heard in a large institution, and it is reasonable to believe that students have negative experiences with both faculty and staff. I think it would be wrong of me to invalidate these students’ experiences, as I believe that they have spoken from the heart. I wish them the best in the future (even with our staggering debt in tow!) and hope that they find satisfaction elsewhere.
As for me, I have experienced both the bitter and the sweet at TCS–although my personal experience has been much more weighted towards the positive. I have found the majority of my professors to be both supportive and intellectually challenging. Of course there is the occasional professor who makes me want to pull my hair out, but these professors have been in the minority in my experience (which is true for almost every academic program). I can only speak for my experience in the Clinical Psy.D Department, but I am satisfied with the quality of my education.
Overall, I believe our school is aware of its shortcomings and that they are actively trying to improve. Many graduate programs (both university and non-university affiliated) lack initiative and could really care less about student concerns. In contrast, TCS is willing to admit that it has room to grow, and I have seen the deliberations that take place which put this principle into action. I love my school and I love the friends I have made at TCS. And I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything else out there. Once again, there are always students who experience TCS differently than I do. I think this can be expected for any large institution; however, the voices of students who are wronged by a system should not be silenced or marginalized. In conclusion, I recommend this school to anyone pursuing a non-research focused graduate program. To any dissatisfied student who is currently at TCS, contact your student government (cssa) and we will do our best to right some of the wrongs you have experienced.
70 Current student Jan 24th, 2011 at 10:17 pm

If you are a prospective student PLEASE DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME WITH THIS SCHOOL. If most reviews are bad there must be a reason or many reasons why that is. The very few reviews that are good must be from administrators because I’ve been treated and called those things by administration (unprofessional for asking questions) or if they are from real students those must be flukes and I wish I had had their experience.

I can’t say bad things about the professors because so far they have been very understanding of how bad administration is. Sometimes it seems as if even they want to complain themselves but they have to keep their jobs.

I have had so many bad experiences with this school that the only reason I’m staying is to not go through the trouble of reapplying somewhere else and I can still work. A lid this school like the plague. They’ll hook you with pretty words but once you’re in they’ll ignore you.

Financial aid always makes mistakes but they make it seem as if it was yours or even if they admit it was theirs (which won’t happen) they leave it up to you to fix it. I have emails from administration that are sent to all students and they literally say “we won’t be holding your hand through the process”. I understand it is graduate school but it doesn’t mean they should ignore us completely. If they act unprofessionally (which happens so much) they make you feel as if you are the one who did so and may ask you to formally apologize.

I could go on with how bad this school is at taking care of its students but from this and all the other reviews I think you get the picture. Someone said that it is more likely that people will write a bad review than a good one, but if there weren’t so many unhappy students there would be a lot less bad reviews.

It is true that the school is a lot more preoccupied with money than the students. I feel that when I graduate and people ask me where I got my degree I’ll say it mumbling out of embarrassment.

PLEASE DO NOT GO THIS SCHOOL UNLESS IT IS ABSOLUTELY YOUR LAST OPTION. And that pretty much means this is the last school standing after a huge and very selective earthquake destroyed all other higher education institutions in the world.
71 Grad Student Feb 8th, 2011 at 3:45 pm

The on-line portion I would NOT recommend. I do not know about he actual school itself. The department chairs, some of the instructors, advisors do not care about the students. I have been so very angry & frustruated. I guess the psychology is if you are a faceless student then they do not care about you. I could of educated myself by reading the material. Why spend the money on grad tuition and fees??? It has been the most hardest schooling I have had since you are all alonge in it. You get absolutely NO support. The only ones who seem to care are the phone dispatchers. It also seems the staff and faculty are working for a paycheck and not genuinely interested in the help of the students. If I could do this again I would NOT, as it is too late into the program.
72 Actual student Feb 11th, 2011 at 12:04 pm

The reviews here are disheartening. I’m about halfway through the online I/O program and am very satisfied with this school. My admissions advisor was incredible. She was there cor every step of the way and my academic advisor has been fhe same way. Financial aid was a little rough, but not because of process or disorganization, but my advisor was a bit ditzy. I was able to switch advisors upon a conversation with a director and literally never had a problem. You have to be in charge of your finances, you have to ensure you know what you should be askin/ doing. Its not at all difficult to communicate with these people and get timely, straight answers. The coursework has been rigorous and demanding. I spent two semesters in an online program at george washington u. I would say the rigor was basically the same. Your hand will not be held, you will have to take charge ( same at gwu), but i can count 5 people from admistrators to faculty that i KNOW i can call to get insight, help and guidance on anything related to my education. This is not the school to go to if your interests are in research not practice. It is a professional school. My professors have had a great deal of professional experience in addition to their academic credentials. Some of mh favorite texta have been peter block for consulting skills and lencionk for team dynamics. I also contaxyed actual alumni working in the field about how well they felt tcs prepared them. All had great things to say. I found them on my own perusing websites of consulting firms across the country. If you’re a prospective student considering the online I/O program i’d be happy to talk to you. Email bnk9482@ego.thechicagoschool.edu
73 Maria Feb 12th, 2011 at 10:12 pm

I agree.
The professors are a Joke, there a couple professors worth my time.
They cater to white well off students, that lazy, manipulative (with severe mental issues of their own)and these students are mostly racist, immature, close minded and stupid. The professors help only the white students and if you are HISPANIC forget it! Nobody cares! There is this older lady in one of my PsyEd classes and she has gone through hell, they laugh at her, disrespect everything she says and the teachers laught at it by the younger students and noboby gives a shit! They teachers are rude and unprepared. It is an expensive school and needs to get it’s act together. DIVERSITY is what they preach but there is so much ignorance and racisist behavior against diversity that is truely a JOKE. We told this woman sue the school and their is enough people behind her to retired!!!!!!
74 international student Feb 13th, 2011 at 3:57 am

anyone know any good on campus for IO psychology program?
75 Nick Feb 18th, 2011 at 11:19 am

I’m a prospective student currently applying to a variety of schools, including Adler and TCS.

Along with the accusation that “Student” is likely an administrator of some kind, given the tone and use of “princess” (Although that seriously made me laugh), I would also like to add under the discussion page of the wikipedia article for TCS, it states that the page was edited a number of times by Matt Nehmer, who is a senior director of communications at TCS, and that he “expanded the article to advertise for the school and burying the lack of APA accreditation deep in the article.” Whether or not this comment in the discussion is true, I don’t know, but I do find it interesting.

That said, I agree with many of the neutral comments basically stating that grad school administrations suck. But that doesn’t mean the school itself is bad. Adler, the other school I’m looking at, doesn’t have any blogs (as far as I can tell) with this much negative feedback, but I did find one review that mentioned a poor administration there as well.

I can also say from experience that a poor administration doesn’t necessarily mean a poor education. I went to Lawrence University in Appleton, WI, and loved my education there, but by my junior year was quite upset with a series of incidents involving the administration. Still, I wouldn’t trade my time at LU for anything, as the education I received was amazing despite all my frustration with the administration.

I think the advice I liked most on this page was done by David. Don’t rely on online reviews to tell you what you should or shouldn’t do. They will help, for sure, but you really need to look into each school yourself. Talk to an admissions rep, talk to some alums. Visit the campus. It’s your education at stake. If you’re doing a doctorate program, you’re going to be investing at least $100k, so you might as well do all that you can to make sure you are making the best decision.
76 GENERALTHOUGHT Feb 23rd, 2011 at 9:22 am

Thinking of completing a degree online is a scary thing first and foremost. I have been thinking about it for a while now since it seems that my undergraduate education at a brick and mortar school was quite possible in another format. Maybe it is because, somewhere along the way, I adopted the Good Will Hunting philosophy that I might have had a better education spending a couple bucks of library fees rather than the large debt I’m in now after sitting numb and dumb doodling on a notebook listening to a professor drone on while I wrestled with myself to pay attention and retain some information. Let’s be honest, we want an education, but mostly, we want a paper, a degree, a licensure, etc. We pay for the recognition, and maybe at some level, we want to recognize ourselves. I’m convinced I could be educated fairly well with an admixture of life experience and some time online or in a library. But, being able to use that education in a professional setting requires that people can recognize that you are qualified. It is in this sense that online schools are scary.
In all honesty, my intuition is that if I were to go to a ‘real’ college, I would be sad to have this school on my transcript…it would be something I’d have to explain and defend. That doesn’t mean that I would be any less capable, but it does seem silly for me to dish out the cash for something that I’d have to explain to the academic community at large. Perhaps one day online programs will be on par, but as of yet the stigma alone is quite an obstacle.
As for the administration, I’ve only been in contact with them for a while, and they seem really responsive, but as of yet I’m a prospective student and do not have any money on the table. The major question that IS on the table, as far as I am concerned is that if I want more than a licensure, but I want a degree from a reputable institution and the capacity to work side by side with other psychologists in the academic community, why would I pay so much money for something that I know I’ll be looked down on for having?
77 Lisa Feb 27th, 2011 at 7:43 pm

I am in my final 8 week program of the online I/O psychology M.A. degree. I agree with ‘Steve’. I am quite young (24), but did not go into this program expecting to have professors with low expectations of my abilities. This program, especially, is considered an ‘accelerated track’. It is meant to challenge and frustrate the students, which I consider a positive thing. I have learned much, and many of my potential employers are very impressed with the name of the school on my resume.

Do not attempt to take the online I/O psychology M.A. program if you are not committed to spending at least 20 hours most weeks for the next 2 years reading, writing, and researching to complete this program. I would not say I spent quite this much effort on the classes, but I read very quickly and can generally type a 10 page paper in about an hour and a half and still receive a good grade at the graduate level. Most of people I know say they cannot do this, and so I doubled the amount of time I normally spent each week on my classes. Anyway, it is a very challenging program. The professors do not accept ‘I need more time’ and do not accept ‘My computer died, my keyboard won’t work, I forgot, my grandfather died’ or any other excuse. You are expected to participate and turn in well written papers weekly. Also, you only get 1.5 weeks off from classes total each year. There is no summer vacation. I suspect that most other programs are the same as the I/O program, and think that most of the people who are unhappy with the courses do not wan to put in a lot of effort and do not understand that most masters programs and doctoral programs will run upwards of 45 grand.
78 Lynn Mar 1st, 2011 at 8:20 pm

Thank you for the Comments. I will not be attending this school. Its seems like they are a profit school……
79 Graduating TCS student Mar 2nd, 2011 at 10:59 pm

I wanted to post to share my experience at TCS as an online student. I’m currently 8 weeks away from my final class completion and receiving my M.A. in I/O Psych. My experience at TCS has not always been perfect and the administration has changed hands a few times since I’ve been there (2 years-ish).

My suggestion is that if you do attend TCS, stay on top of everything. Stay on top of your financial aid and keep in touch with your advisor, your teacher, your follow classmates, and whoever else it takes to get the job done. No one will make sure your financial aid is turned in. No one will make sure that you do not have holds on your accounts or that a class is passed. HOWEVER, whenever I did ask for help, I almost always received a response from someone within 48 hours.

Also, online school IS NOT for everyone. You have to be very self-motivating to make it work. If you cannot commit to this, then don’t even attempt it. If I could do it over again, I would attend in person as opposed to online because it was harder than I orignally expected. There is a TON of writing involved, one to three discussion posts a week and one paper due a week.

All of this being said, online school was the best option for me at the time. I hope that my M.A. will be respected amongst other I/O professionals and I hope this school has prepared me for my career path. I suppose only time and hard work will tell. Best of luck to all.
80 Tammy Mar 8th, 2011 at 2:48 pm

My feelings toward these reviews push me away from even looking into the school. Thanks for all the reviews it helps me not even wast my time or money for that matter. I am going to find a different school. I think the Adm. needs to take these comments into consideration and make there school better.
81 Jason Mar 9th, 2011 at 7:22 pm

Does it really matter is “student” is part of the admin, i mean seriously! Consider the possibility that a number of those posting here are from “other” institutions, do you really know? NO! So what’s there to do? Stop reading these posts and do your own research and not rely on what these variable nodes are subjectively writing.
How? Well, glad you asked, 1. Check with APA, 2. Check with Dept of Education, 3. Check with an official school Alum site. Do a school visit.

It’s that easy. Too many want it all and want it now. It’s easy to see how and why so many have posted on the negative side…negative side of what…that the Admin sucks…so! What about a quality education and education that is above the undergrad level…this is why it’s called an advanced degree. But hey who am i ranting to…a few disgruntled students who didn’t have the patience to work through a problem set. You started out fine…you identified the problem, but you failed on the follow through…the recommendations for fixing that problem, just because you’re a student doesn’t mean you turn a blind eye to the issues, it’s YOUR school too!

A number of people have already said it here…the Institution is APA accredited! That says something.

I don’t even attend this school but doing my research, asking questions, and following up on phone conversations and emails, I plan on attending and EARNING my PhD in IP.
I’m out.

Jason
Wounded Warrior
82 L.A. Applicant Mar 20th, 2011 at 2:22 pm

My application is currently under review at the Los Angeles campus for Psy.D in Clinical Psych (post BA). So far, after phone calls and lots of correspondence, I can safely say that I haven’t experienced the “hard sell” re money or the school, and always received a reply within a couple of hours. The only mention of money was from my admissions counselor who told me my application would be reviewed for a few scholarships they offer that are NOT based on need. I am graduating in May from Pepperdine Univ. GSEP with an M.A., so I’m used to that level of tuition. The CSPP in Downtown L.A. has been completely remodeled and comprises three floors of very chic and minimalist designer quality finishes (I’m a visual person so that kind of stuff matters to me personally). I love how ultra modern it is inside – no visual noise whatsoever. Impossibly thin flat panels hang in every room with smart boards etc. My favorite are the cool sliding door wall pods for studying, complete with computers and supplies. Super sleek kitchens and social areas on every floor. I could seriously live there. They are obviously very confident about their future here in L.A. if they are investing that kind of money and creating a campus that can keep up with the future of tech. I wonder if all of the construction etc might have disrupted the initial admin-student relationship the first couple of years? The actual president of CSPP is stationed at the L.A. campus and a good part of one floor is devoted to her offices…didn’t look like a temporary thing. I was told that the L.A. campus ONLY is conducting a self-study for the APA accreditation process. They have to graduate their first class which I believe will be 2012 or 2013 and then proceed. I would guess that the president’s presence has a lot to do with their APA process. After sifting through a LOT of info online and elsewhere, I discovered that CSPP acquired the CGI campuses in Irvine and Westwood, but that dowtown L.A. was established by CSPP itself. CGI students had to abide by some “sunset clause” for licensure by 2009. I’m sure the CGI campuses suffered a worse transition. The merger may have to do with legislation “AB 48″ in CA which served as a crackdown on for-profit post-secondary schools and “degree mills” under which an unaccredited school like CGI would have dissolved regardless. CSPP is not-for-profit, therefore eliminating this regulatory/compliance issue as a professional school. I attended a highly ranked Univ. of CA public for my B.A. and now an “expensive” private like Pepperdine for my M.A.. It’s just a different kind of culture but neither “the best” I don’t think. You get good and bad at both. However, I have a family, mortgage, bills, etc so I know to treat school like my workplace (including politics) and manage the admin details, and I don’t wait until there’s potential crises looming to take action. I was also told that my track would be classes Mon/Wed 8am-6pm which works great as a mom, and my subway goes right to the campus block.
83 student and former employee Mar 21st, 2011 at 4:08 pm

As someone who has been on both sides of the fence, allow me to give those of you serious potential students and objective and honest review.

The faculty is mixed, as with any institution. I have encountered faculty members that are too smart for their own good, some who are mentors and others who care only when you do. Chances are, if you convey your passion and interest they will be receptive to you. Do your work, work to develop relationships with faculty outside of classtime (I.e. Discussing lectures during office hours) and actively participate and you won’t be disapointed. Simply, do not expect anyone to hold your hand.

The programs and course content are relevant and adequate. It is up to you to do the reading. You cannot expect all of the material (and there is abundace of it!) to be conveyed in the short class time alotted.

Yes, some people do have problems with financial aid or tech systems. Can you name a place that doesn’t?

The tuition is ridiculous. Enough said.

The administration is a serious mess but currently, the students do not feel the brunt of it as they have in the past. Additionally, the members of the administration responsible for the bulk of the problems have been very recently fired or agreeably dismissed.

The school is acreddited. Programs that are generally acreddited by APA are as well.

No, the labs are not staffed. Do you really need a chaperone?

Yes, the school does have a questionable reputation. As the school is a “diploma mill” (something you have to accept should you choose to attend TCS) there are a handful, a large handul of students and alumni whom you will be ashamed to be associated with. However, if you are diligent and motivated, you can absolutely make an amazing career for yourself.

Each and every school has a problem, a flaw, an angry alumni. Do not let a few bad apples or bad experiences shared by total strangers influence such an important decision. You should choose a school by the quality of education, the fit, your passion for their mission and your best learning environment. As others have said, if you need to be read every word from the text and only care to know what you need to know to fulfill graduation requirements, this school is not for you. If you are comfortable learning on your own or with a group of peers, if you are looking for a casually professional environment, then TCS might be for you.
84 A student and a former employee Mar 21st, 2011 at 4:51 pm

I previously submitted a post via my blackberry and hope that it will post shortly.
I would like to add…

Graduate school is not something that should be entered into lightly. And just as important as it is to find the right career path, it is equally important to select the proper learning institution. To help you make your decision…

Those who will be successful at TCS-
Independant learners
social beings
those willing to bridge the gap between faculty and student (meaning that you must respect faculty and also be confident enough in yourself to approach faculty in a casually professional manner)
Those willing to accept administrative flaws
Someone who is proactive about their own finances and student affairs (you must be willing to oversee your personal financial aid process and student affairs, problems will arise and it is much easier to correct these minor problems before they become big ones. No one will be on the other side of the computer or the desk looking out for you. But shouldn’t you want to monitor your own education and all processes that pertain to it? Especially when it is seriously overpriced?)
Critical thinkers
Those willing to accept a challenge (you will have to defend a questionable reputation, be it on a practicum interview, among peers or to significant others. However, if you work hard and are confident in your own abilities, you will thrive.)
You need to be okay with attending an istitution that accepts less than serious applicants (there are immature, unmotivated, self-serving students that attend this school. If you are a serious student, this will enrage you)
Someone who is patient.

What you need to know…
The school is a diploma mill
The school is part of a larger organization that dabbles in a variety of areas (nursing, law, bachelor programs, etc. This will bother you, as it works to seemingly cheapen the value of your degree
The larger adminstration does not care about the students. Do they need to? I’m not so sure it really matters in the long run, as you will have very little contact with them. The Chicago School- Chicago specific administration is amazing. Serious changes are being made to safe-guard the integrity of the student body and rebuild the (yes, terrible) reputation of the school.
The school has problems, they all do. The problems at TCS are seemingly more evident given the small-scale nature of the school. That is, the instition was until recently, a small, professional institution will town hall meetings, ambassedor clubs and staff involvement. As the institution grows and expands, these things are slowly evolving. Yes, sad but also an inevitable part of the process.
If you are considering TCS for the aforementioned reputation, that of a small, hands-on school with a sense of community, I am sad to say this no longer exists. But unity can be found amongst cohorts and faculty if you are willing to put in the effort to make it happen.
If you are looking to breeze through grad school, fulfill graduation requirements and move on to your career… sadly, you can do this here. This will dishearten those of you who value your education, but fear not, the curriculum is fantastic if you are willing to do the seriously abundant reading and coursework.

Grad school is what you make of it… Base your choice on this: Does the schools mission sit well with you? Do you value research or practical application? Do you like the location of the school? (yes, that really is important). Is the institution accredited? Are you willing to spend the tuition required of you? Will you confident you will be competitive?

Don’t let the experiences of perfect strangers influence your choice. None of the negative, or positve experiences for that matter, listed above are unique to this school. Nor do the adequately describe in any sense, the type of experience they will have no matter what institution you ultimately elect to attend.

Hope this helps somebody… Good Luck!
85 Not A Student Mar 23rd, 2011 at 4:17 pm

I do not go to this school or am I part of the faculty, however, at the school I do attend there are many complaints posted all over the internet. Without passing judgement, just stating what I witness; most complaints come from an experience when a student is very disappointed with a grade they recieive, that they feel they did not deserve or the grade affected their GPA (EGO). It is easy to target profit schools, but let’s be honest, do you think a school like USC is not about profit. I do not see everybody crying all over the internet every time they receive a bad grade at a traditional school.
86 sher85 Mar 24th, 2011 at 1:18 am

Hi all,
I just got accepted to the MFT program, I am actually quite nervous now after reading all these reviews. Aside from the administration, is it really that bad? If I don’t get accepted to another school, this school is my only option. I hope I learn a thing or two but now im so confused…help!

thanks all!
87 Allie Mar 25th, 2011 at 9:40 am

I am looking into the M.A. Forensic Psychology Program at the Washington D.C. Campus (not online). I cannot tell if the negative reviews are about certain campuses or about the school as a whole. If someone would be willing shed some light on that particular campus it would help greatly. Thanks, Allie
88 Industrial organizational program atlanta Mar 28th, 2011 at 12:42 pm

has anyone got a job in the I/O field after graduating from TCS
please help Im thinking of going here in May.
89 A Chicago School Student Mar 28th, 2011 at 5:03 pm

Allie,
The larger adminstrative body affiliated with The Chicago School (now referred to as TCS Education System) acquired the DC Campus just over a year ago. That being said, I imagine that you should expect some transition with the campus administration and program curriculum. I am not sure if that is a good thing or a bad thing since TCS Education System is in the business of acquiring struggling campuses. I would try to learn the former name of the campus and include reviews and research about that campus in your search. Unfortunately, I cannot comment on the faculty or staff at that particular site.
Hope you revisit this site and that you find this information useful.
90 On-Line mistake Apr 17th, 2011 at 4:57 pm

I am having the worst experience. The MAP on-line stinks. I am going to withdrawal and go somewhere else! Too late to get my tuition reimbursed. It is a joke. Grad your money and go! Michael Barr is an arrogant a******. I dont’ know how he got into the position he is in. They must of been desperate and hired just anyone. I don’t know why they call it “professional” school of psychology as any of them are not but that. The other posts are correct in that they are a bunch of hypocrites. They do NOT think of the students.
91 Thinking of Attending for I/O Psych Apr 18th, 2011 at 1:24 pm

Hello all,
I am considering attending TCS for I/O Psychology, and though some of the reviews were disheartening, I am unwilling to base my decision on a few emotional rantings. If anyone has any relevant information about this program, school, and their experiences with it, I would appreciate if they could email me. I would like to begin furthering my education in the fall of this year. Thank you in advance for any responses I may get. My email is swigal.psych@gmail.com

Thanks again.
92 AnHonestPerspective Apr 23rd, 2011 at 1:00 am

I am suing this school because the graduating class of 2010 in the M.A. Forensic Psychology program was not properly taught portions of what was expected in the final paper that is written and orally produced. Many students complained about this at the beginning of the school year, and then 6 months and a full semester after I started my internship I was told that I wasn’t doing well. I was like why are you telling me this so late in the game but still tried to fix it. They gave me 6 weeks to fix it and then dismissed me stating that they felt I wasn’t ever going to get it, although my internship supervisor and course supervisor stated I made some progress. On top of that, I had a professor write a completely libelist letter stating that I failed all my assignments in their course, which was untrue and I did file a complaint with the ethics board because what the hell what kind of licensed psychologist lies about a student’s grades and comportment? When I found my assignments from that course (on which I had received all As and the professor had written nothing but positive comments) I showed them to the dean and he then denied my appeal anyways. On top of that I was practically a straight A student and never failed anything. I think they were trying to cover their tracks because we complained about the deficits in our courses earlier in the year, and they claimed to be having meetings about it, but most professors just passed people through or failed them. I discussed this issues with the dean, and the president of both the Chicago campus and the president that heads all the campuses. They deny deny deny, but they can’t lie in court with the proof staring them in the face and witness and statements, so I’m looking forward to some justice because WHAT A SCAM. I hope they read this and know I’m not stopping because a lawsuit is a public record and just like this forum it will be out there for people to BE WARNED. I love school and am working in the field now without the M.A. but I should be working towards licensure right now. I am not a slacker and like I said actually worked hard and had GOOD grades, so the bullshit on this site that the presidents of the schools probably wrote (because they are just figureheads-do not trust them as they will do nothing for you) is completely untrue. I agree that you could have a good experience at this school if you were not actually there, in fact online may be good (although students who were mostly on campus who took online courses hated the online process), and there were some really great professors (mostly adjunct), but overall like someone else said RUN, not walk from this school It’s a hot mess and from what I’ve been discussing with a lawyer and the accreditation board, may not be in the best shape when I’m done with them. It could only improve.
93 Graduate Student Apr 28th, 2011 at 11:14 am

I will be graduating from TCS in June with my Masters in Psychology. I was SCHOCKED to find out that they do not offer ANY HONOR SOCIETY memberships. Lena the online advisor claims it is because they require all students to hold at least a 3.0, that is BS. Most graduate schools require that. Furthermore, I recently found out that I am NOT eligible to sit for my license as their Masters degree only requires 36 hours and the min hours for a license is 60. So basically I paid over 40K for NOTHING.

DO NOT ATTEND THIS SCHOOL IF YOU WANT A REAL CAREER IN THE FIELD.
94 Mississippi girl Apr 29th, 2011 at 6:43 pm

Hello, I’ve been accepted into I/O program at the LA campus! I’m so excited and considering attending TCS. I’m interested in meeting other individuals from the I/O program at the LA campus and I need to find a roomate and a great apartment in the campus area. My email is keshunat@yahoo.com please contact with information on the program and apt information as well!
Thanks in Advance.
95 Scared May 9th, 2011 at 10:50 pm

Hi,
I am getting very scared in attending this school. I am currently applying for the MFT program and am very discouraged and disappointed in hearing the reviews. I was so excited in applying and trying to change the world for the better by preparing myself with what seems to be a great institution in promoting mental health professionalism. I would like to know if there have been any changes in the school recently that are positive? I would not want to go to a school with so many bad reviews.
96 Propestive student for LA campus May 15th, 2011 at 5:29 pm

I’m interested in attending the LA campus for a M.A. in Applied Behavior Analysis. Would anyone recommend this program? Has anyone participated in this program?
97 Mariangela Rodriguez May 22nd, 2011 at 7:01 pm

Hi!
I´m from Colombia, South America and I´m thinking of applying to the online Certificate in Child and Adolescent Psychology. I´m about to start the application process but certainly I´m a little shocked after reading several bad reviews. It would be very helpful to hear some thoughts about anyone who has had the experience of taking this online Certificate. Thanks in advance for your help with this!
98 TSC is a cult May 23rd, 2011 at 11:48 pm

TSC values diversity!!

Student population as of Fall 2010 census:
Average age 30.3 years
81% female
19% male

Out of the 19% male, more than half are homosexual (not that there’s anything wrong with that). If you are a straight male, either conform to their liberal ideology or be eaten by these liberal wolves. Half the females are hot, while the other half are Oprahs. If you want to get your Master’s degree and take easy psychology courses where everyone sits in a circle laughing, crying, and talking idly, pay the thousands of dollars tuition. Just make sure you don’t have balls or are gay before you register.
The science of psychology is rapidly progressing, while institutions like this both help(with science) and hurt (with their insidious morality) the mentally ill.

Pay The Chicago School baby…
99 CaliGirl Jun 3rd, 2011 at 2:41 pm

Is the program APA approved?

That should be your first question. Moreover, just because the Chicago campus program is approved doesn’t mean the LA campus is. In fact, I don’t believe the LA Campus is…so something to look into…
100 Forensic MA student Jun 6th, 2011 at 8:40 am

Till recently I was a student in the Forensic MA program. Unfortunately, I agree with most of the negative replies to this school. Originally, I received my bachelors from a well recognized university and was seeking a masters from a well concentrated smaller establishment. Additionally, there is a very limited number of Forensic MA programs in the country. Exactly to the same extent of (AnHonestPerspective) I am being dismissed from the program, and am currently trying to have my dismissal overturned so that the past two years of my academic career have not been a waste of time and money. I am a good student, I received an above average g.p.a, and have a very good professional relationship with my professors but was placed in a horrible practicum site. Given the horrible structure of the school in this matter, I was strong armed into staying at the site and in return it effected my ability to keep up with some of my classes. The school in my opinion does have some positive attributes; such as, some of the professors are amazing and offer amazing insight into the forensic field and from what I hear the I/O department has an amazing program that is only unique to them. However, the school tends to treat the professors and students with a high level of disrespect to the point where it is hard to thrive and grow. The school lacks structure and communication within all its departments to as well. As a result, there admission numbers have been continuing to drop. I will not be surprised if the school soon looses its accreditation and is hit with even more law suits. I had the ability to sit down and meet Dr. NEALON-WOODS and to my understanding she is the head of all the TCS campuses. Personally, I felt as though she was kind and receptive to all feedback that all students (former and current) have to say about the school. However, I do not believe she has witnessed nor is given an accurate and honest account of the true discrepancies, and disrespect that exist within the school (although she is aware of the negative feedback the school is receiving on this site and seems to be very concerned). I implore all of you to email her in a non-antagonistic manner and tell her how your experiences in the school have transpired. Hopefully, you will receive the answers and help you need. For those of you seeking enrollment at any of the TCS institutions currently I suggest you re-think your decision or check back in with the school in the future.
101 I/O Student Jun 16th, 2011 at 12:03 pm

I have had an excellent experience in the I/O program so far. As an international student, the administration posed no problems and only helped me along the way with any questions I had. The professors are experienced, seasoned professionals in the field with a knack for application. I would reccomend this program at The Chicago School to anyone pursuing a serious career as an I/O psychologist and have nothing negative to say!
102 Current Graduate Student Jun 23rd, 2011 at 1:04 pm

I was a second year MACC student expected to graduate May 2011 but now I am forced to take another year because of two failed internships. I was repeatedly reassured that I would be placed at a site, would be staying with the site for the entire process, and that the sites were equipped to handle and train interns; this has unfortunately proved to be wrong. Furthermore, I am now forced to take an extra year of school (and pay for it) in which proves to be more costly. With my first site, I was let go after two weeks beause of “support issues” (they didnot have enough staff support to train interns). The school admitted that they were having problems getting the site to agree on being able to support two interns but somehow never told me about this throughout the entire internship proccess and waiting period. In my second site, there were two major problems. I was hardly ever given direct service hours (required clinical hours of direct face-to-face therapy). Second, my site supervisor told me to falisify 4 DCFS records; this guy did not write case notes for any of his four clients for a year and I was told to make up notes for him and to make it sloppy enough so the case worker could not read it. When I reported it to the school, they immediately pulled me out of the site. Later on, they told me they could not get me a site so I have to do the entire process over. That means reapply with the first year students and do the entire year again. When I made the argument to the school, that they should be paying for my tuition next year because they are the ones that screwed me over and force me to take an extra year they said that “did not understand” why they should be paying. They said they might give me scholarship opportunities, but that never happened. I hope my story will steer you away from this school and give you one clear message: THEY DO NOT CARE ABOUT STUDENT AT ALL
103 Concerned Student Jun 24th, 2011 at 9:36 am

Just an FYI, the entire first cohort of the on-ground International Psychology program have all left the program (either withdrawing or going on a leave of absence) due to the recent cuts made by administration. The group was informed by various administrators that in the decision-making process, they were not considered, which was a “mistake.” There is much talk about core courses for this on-ground PhD to be moved online.

As such, before anyone considers this on-ground program, they need to know that the Centers for International Studies and Multicultural and Diversity Studies are essentially on hold, with no academic advisors. There are no dedicated faculty for the IP on-ground program at this time. Administration is scrambling.
104 TCSPP BS Jun 27th, 2011 at 6:49 pm

In order to save money, The Chicago School just cut their Multicultural program, one of their four “pillars” of education. If such an establishment terminates an essential program that helps guide international and diverse populations of students, what benefits does it hold for them, let alone the student body? One must remember, this is a FOR-PROFIT graduate school; it all comes down to making money. I am currently in my second year at the Chicago campus, and regretfully cannot divulge any more information for fear of retaliation by the school. I will not regurgitate what was already said from others regarding the negativity surrounding this school. Unfortunately, much of it is true. I was lured into enrolling at the Chicago School with a merit scholarship, but if I would have known the nonsense and unprofessional behavior that encompasses this graduate school, I would have declined their offer and taken my tuition money elsewhere. It is just not worth the hassle.
105 Recent Grad- Chicago Campus Jun 28th, 2011 at 4:02 pm

I recently graduated from the MA Clinical Counseling program and overall had a good experience. As others have said, administration and financial aid aren’t the best but as long as you stay on top of your advisors, you’ll be ok. But what school doesn’t have it’s problems? I know I’ve gotten as good education compared to students from other programs in the area. I interned with students from 4 different Chicago area counseling programs at my practicum site and I knew a lot more about theory and practice than they did. For the most part, I had great professors (stuck to core faculty and well-known adjuncts whenever possible!). The school is definitely expensive, no arguing that, but you just have to decide if the degree is worth it or not.

As far as the licensure issue “Graduate Student” brought up: I’m guessing you didn’t do any research before jumping into that program. You won’t be able to sit for licensure if you go to an online program, especially if it doesn’t have a practicum!

The school has it’s problems but I didn’t think it was nearly as bad as other reviewers on here have made it out to be. But I also came from a different program and some of these review are over 2 years old- a LOT of changes have happened in the last few months.
106 NOT WORTH IT Jul 6th, 2011 at 4:30 pm

This school is horrible, they lie to the students to get them in and then they don’t deliver. Administration is a complete joke, they completely ignore students doesn’t matter how big or small the problem is. If you are suing the school please leave your attorney information because I want to join the lawsuit.

TERRIBLE SCHOOL!!! WASTE OF MONEY!!!
107 Westwood student Jul 6th, 2011 at 11:46 pm

I am disheartened to be a part of The Chicago School. I go to the Westwood Campus, and I am astonished at the lack of professional conduct of the administration towards their job and towards the students. I am an older professional who went back to school to gain a graduate degree in something I really felt strongly about. But I have been disappointed in the staff and the school as a whole. Requests for transcripts and for other information pertaining to my continuing education at the school go unanswered with no response, while the school has no problem in getting a hold of a student when they want their tuition payments. When confronted with their unprofessional demeanor and lack of response, the school has one of their staff members with a fancy title write that they won’t tolerate unprofessional behavior from their students. I wonder if they know what a flatulent asshole is.
108 Business Psychology prospect Jul 16th, 2011 at 7:38 pm

I was accepted to the Psy D program in Business Psychology 2 days ago and I am seriously considering withdrawing from Walden University online Doctorate of Education to attend the TCSOPP….I would like to hear from anyone that may be enrolled in this Psy D program…..good or bad. Thanks.
109 Dissappointed Jul 17th, 2011 at 2:47 am

I don’t know about the other portion or department of the school but Dr. Lantz of the masters-on-line is a joke. He has the worst temper and it surprises me how these people get these chair positions! They are really nice to you until they take your money then treat you like a prisoner and a child! Total disrespect. You are under their mercy and I am looking into investigating them. They are treat the students like ****.
VERY UNPROFESSIONAL! If the school did a clean sweep and replaced certain staff then I am sure the school would improve. If you read the previous post most of the complaints are the administration.

I would not recommend until they get real people running the school.
110 Dissappointed Jul 17th, 2011 at 2:52 am

Please delete the department chairs name as I put Dr. Lantz and feel this is inappropriate especially when I feel Dr. Michael Barr has a temper worse than Dr. Lantz!
111 PhD International Psychology Student Jul 18th, 2011 at 7:55 am

I am a current PhD, IP student in my first year. Having come from the traditional side, brick and mortar (Boston Univ. and American Univ), the online/blended experience has thus far been rich in discussion and debate. Additionally the library (ebsco, etc) is second to none, very expansive. The professors seem well educated and willing to assist, but the key is asking for help, they can’t read your mind (no-pun). So while I approve and support the academic side of the school…I loath the administrative side.

First, there are entirely to many ‘contracted’ departments with no cross talk to other departments/divisions. It makes it an IT nightmare to get things done in a timely manner. I’ve had major issues prior to starting my class, the IT dept closed the ticket prior to it being addressed. Student services are in disarray, there is no continuity and they lack to ability to provide you with timely and relevant information.

Last, as a disabled vet, the VA office at TCS is at best second rate. They do not realize that the VA is paying an excessive amount for instate tuition and half of my yellow ribbon, yet they (TCS) can not file properly the correct amount of credit hours to the VA nor can they properly submit the proper ‘type’ of hours, i.e. residency. This lack of understanding and clear lack of attention to detail is costing me a significant amount of money, time and effort to address their mistakes instead of focusing on my studies. Poor!

In the end, it is what it is, a very well established academic institution with sub-par adminstrative support. At 23K a year, I would think they would be able to afford better support. If I can put forth on my end an effort to work, go to school and maintain a 3.5 or better, ask the relevant questions, not complain unnecesarrily about things without trying to resolve them myself first, then why can’t they apply the same effort and due diligence?

Advice to the Master level students, beyond the admin issues, you better learn how to cite, reference material, learn to write, learn to research and learn to prepare a properly formatted paper under APA guidelines. Know these things ‘BEFORE’ you jump into this or anyother program.

Anyway my .02 cents on TCS.
BTW, the school itself is APA accredited (Chicago ONLY), your specific program may not be so ask! Otherwise it is Regionally Accredited by the North Central Schools.

Me
112 TCS - changed for the worse Jul 19th, 2011 at 6:40 am

The Chicago School has genuinely changed for the worse. The focus upon tuition rather than upon students has left the past six years or so of graduate psychologists in a dismal state – under-prepared, doing poorly at practicum and internship sites, pretty much doing a long paper and calling it a dissertation, etc. I used to work at TCS fifteen years ago and it had great rigor and was selective in the students it took in – now anyone with a Mastercard/Visa seems to be accepted. I now work with current TCS faculty and they too are very disappointed in the direction the school has taken – and in the kinds of graduate students they are work with. I also train graduate students and TCS students are unfortunately often considered “bottom of the barrel” – the unfortunate part is that this is true. So, I would recommend to any of you out there that you do your research and make sure you explore several different options for graduate education. At this time in its history….TCS is not a good option for serious study and clinical work – but it is a good option apparently if you like corporate money making institutions that are disinterested in education…..
113 Melody Jul 19th, 2011 at 7:52 pm

CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT

I AM LOOKING FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO HAVE ATTENDED TCSPP AND HAD TROUBLE BECAUSE THEY RECEIVED A “C” AND COULDN’T GRADUATE AND HAD TO TAKE A CLASS OVER AND PAY A LOT OF MONEY. I WANT TO FILE A LAWSUIT AGAINST THIS SCHOOL BECAUSE I UNDERSTAND BELOW A GPA OF 3.0 BUT ALSO NOT GETTING A “C” IN CLASS IS A RIP OFF BECAUSE THE SCHOOL COSTS AND ARM AND A LEG AND IS RIPPING OFF FINANCIAL AID CHARGING SO MUCH MONEY AND NOW I CAN’T GRADUATE SO I WITHDREW FROM THE SCHOOL AND I AM FILING A COMPLAINT WITH DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION BUT IF ANYONE WANTS TO GET TOGETHER AND FILE A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT. I WOULD LIKE TO SEE IF WE CAN FILE A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT TO GET THE FINANCIAL AID MONEY BACK TO THE GOVERNMENT AND CHANGE THE POLICY. I HAD A HORRIBLE EXPERIENCE WITH A PROFESSION KELLY AT THAT SCHOOL. I AM FILING A DISCRIMINATION LAWSUIT BUT IF ANYONE HAS EXPERIENCED ANY PROBLEMS WE CAN FILE A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT. WE NEED 8 PEOPLE OR MORE. SO LET ME KNOW.

melody_shabpareh@yahoo.com
114 Prospective Student Jul 20th, 2011 at 10:13 pm

Wow, reading all these negative comments kind of give me mixed feelings. However, like some of the people that posted on here said: I am not going to let comments from a blog make my decisions. I did a lot of research on the school and from working in higher education administration for 3.5 years, I can honestly say that the school does seem to be reputable! Do your research people! The only thing that makes me cringe about this school is the tuition. I do wish the tuition wasn’t so high. But all in all, I am transferring from Northcentral University, which is a 100% online school that is NOT APA accredited. For you that do not know what APA accredidation is….put it this way…some Ivy League schools share the same accredidation. I will continue to do my research, but please folk don’t let negative comments decide for you! Choose a college based on the quality and not the quantity of negative comments.

God Bless.
115 JB Jul 22nd, 2011 at 5:28 pm

Thanks for the info. I was considering TCS but am now thinking twice about it (I’m actually very skeptical and will probably not apply).
116 Debbie Jul 25th, 2011 at 12:39 pm

Wow.. I wonder how many of the complainers just couldn’t cut it? I’m’ in the admissions process and have been treated with courtesy and respect. I have looked at other schools and to me they are a joke. No school will be perfect, but if the issue is with the individual, shame on all of you haters for creating doubt in the minds of others…. that was completely unfair.
117 jonathan s. Jul 29th, 2011 at 9:35 am

The Chicago campus of TCS has, over the past five years, completely dropped their standards when it comes to selecting students for the doctorate in clinical psych. If you can pay – you are in – that’s all there is to their selection process. This hurts, as I chose this school out of other acceptances I received…but I simply cannot believe the immaturity, lack of professionalism, and overall blockheadedness of the students in this program….I am so disappointed in the quality of this school, its administration, and especially its kindergarden ready student body, that I have arranged to transfer out and am now headed for a Ph.D. program instead. I went to TCS because of its past reputation – trust me – it is more of a holding tank for students who cannot gain acceptance elsewhere at this point….and that is becoming clear to employers and the training community, too.
118 Rooster Jul 30th, 2011 at 12:55 pm

I received my MA in Applied Industrial/Organizational Psychology with a focus in Consumer Psychology via Online Course. I RECOMMEND THE CHICAGO SCHOOL WITHOUT HESITATION OR MENTAL RESERVATION! I read a few of the comments about TCS and I don’t know the circumstances or the Root Cause of their disappointments but I had no problem with the administration of the school in any way. The professors are great and very professional. Honestly I must say that what I’ve read reminded me of Walden University. I studied in the Public Policy: Homeland Security Planning and Policy and believe that Walden University administration and some of the professors I studied under to mirror the horrific administrative policies and practices that I have witnessed on the part of the Transporation Security Administration and certain commands in the US Military; and I say that as being a US Army veteran who specialized in security.
But regarding the stated discontent with The Chicago School, I have witnessed many that experience difficulty in graduate school because in said environment one is required to think and apply ones thinking successfully and even show an implicit understanding to a given situation in order to solve a complex problem; whereas many that cannot do such things but maintain a pretense to do so only perpetuate and worsen the problem. These are the ones who complain about not being catered to, who complain about their deficits of ability being proven. And that’s all I have to say about this.
119 Ted Aug 6th, 2011 at 2:26 pm

I am a CSPP graduate (Psy.D. program, Chicago campus)…and regret having acquired my degree from this diploma mill. I had other choices, but my wife and kids kept me in the Chicago area….and I think Adler or ISPP would have been better choices, given that I am familiar with those programs. In my current role, I now train TCS students….and wow – they will take anyone into their doctoral program who has a working credit card. Seriously – this is no longer a place for thoughtful students – and the good faculty have fled. The new students at TCS tend to be spoiled, wealthy, selfish, and have neither the clinical nor the academic chops to be in any graduate program, much less one that involves human services. I regret having anything to do with TCS. Trust me – you’d do better getting an education elsewhere.
120 Penelope Aug 12th, 2011 at 11:15 am

I will tell my story as factually as I can… I was planning to do an online program but after visiting the chicago campus and meeting with an instructor and a dean of one of the programs, I decided to apply for residency psy d program (feb). After I applied I got invitation to interview and they encouraged me to come out in person for that, but only gave me 1 weeks notice and so airfare cost a fortune (april). When I got there, the other applicants seemed fresh out of undergrad and most were not very mature or experienced, which suprised me for a doctorate program. So, I got accepted, and upon notice they gave me 1 week to make my decision and pay the $500 deposit … without having any information about cost, financial aid, or insurance. (April). I think I got financial aid info in may and insurance info in july. Also in june or july anotice of tuition rate increaes came out for aug start dates. They went up nearly $100 per credit hour, putting tuition alone (no books, no fees) at $1200 per credit hour, and you pay for every hour. For the most expensive school in the country I have been suprised at the lack of regard for student financial planning. Financing tuition alone I estimate my debt to be around $200,000 at the end of the 5 years. Interest @ 7.5% on staffords puts interest only payments at over 1,000 per month. However, most of the students I have talked to have an ‘i will worry about that later’ attitude which scares me. Long story short… I am a mature, professional woman and can see the point of those who say they would like to see a little higher level of service given the kind of money they are paying, The service I’ve received has not been as structured as I receved when getting my undergrad and grad degrees at univerisities and it has made it more difficult to plan than probably need be.
121 AJ Aug 20th, 2011 at 5:25 pm

I’m currently applying to the I/O Psychology Masters degree program online. I have read some of the reviews posted here, and like anyone else, I am a little nervous. I don’t want to read too much into it, since I had lots of horrible experiences at the undergrad state university I attended. I thnk that there will always be good and bad to every situation.

I was an online student as an undergrad, and I have to say, the classess do require more work than if they were in-class courses. Still, if you are organized and commited, then online classes might just be right for you.

So far, I have very good things to say about the admissions staff at TCS of Professional Psychology. I hope the dynamics won’t change, but I will keep posting as I go along.

I am a little concerned about the $, as it is a lot, but so far, I have found that all graduate programs are expensive, especially if they are offered online.

I hope that more reviews are posted, and I hope they are willing to look at things with an impartial eye. I’m a serious student, and I want to read serious reviews, not just opinions.

Wish me luck!
122 sipplov Aug 24th, 2011 at 11:40 am

I am sadden to read all the comments that is going public. We are family as it will be at any institution of higher learning. There is a bond that takes place becuase of the mission of each student. Like any family there is good and bad but the fact remains we are family. I keep this word before you for a reason I want you to think about it and allow it to sink into your conscious and subconscious mind. I maybe a little older than others and it may show now in my next statement “what goes on in this house stays in this house” you more younger generation may not understand or relate because the world has change. To balance this equation I the baby boomer may not be able to relate to hip hop or a more liberal view at times. But I still respect that lady that respect herself and leave something to the imagination as she wears that beautiful sun dress in the summer time. One thing I have learned in life is things change and at some point we have to accept or tolerate somethings. We should not be airing our dirty laundry in public like this, family just don’t do this. Many of you I will not meet in my life time but the thing that connects us is the chicago school of professional psychology. I have developed a strong love for the school because of the opportunity it is affording me. If God be willing and continue to bless me with life I will graduate in June 2013 cohort 4 of the organizational leadership PHD program. Let us remember the zeal we had when we first was given the opoortunity to become family memebers of this great institution. As we move forward steadfastly let’s open the dialogue,speak our minds, but do it in a way that others will respect our institution of higher learning- within the boundary of the family household. I respect you all but keep in mind we are living in a very challenging time and the school is at a privital moment in history. much love
123 JGV Aug 29th, 2011 at 6:14 pm

The first thing that caught my eye reading through these reviews is that several start out with “THIS SCHOOL SUCKS or THIS SCHOOL IS A JOKE and the first complaint out of them is the cost of tuition.

So… you didn’t even know the price before you started but you have the nerve to say the people at the school don’t do their job? If you did know the price and decided to take the chance anyway, that is not anyone’s fault but your own, no real reason to be sore on that subject now. Seriously…I doubt anyone stuck a gun to your head on that.
Which leads me to the credibility on the rest of any post that starts out complaining about the price. If these people can’t do their research on the cost of a school before enrolling, then only god knows what they expected and how much effort they put into a class (being that they put no effort into looking at a price list…which IS provided for all new students).

To be blatantly honest here, I am glad such lazy morons dropped out of the school. Let some bottom rung bedlam of a public school get the credit for bestowing a degree on them. I would prefer to graduate with thickeners, problem solvers and wise choice makers than with people who are going to think something is too expensive and yet do it anyway…or even worse, just sign paperwork they were too freaking lazy to read to begin with. Scientists should not behave in such a way and psychology IS a science. These people are obviously not cut out of the fabric it takes to be the type of scientist that advances human understanding.
124 Will Sep 5th, 2011 at 6:49 pm

I have been checking out this school for a few months as a possibility, but now, I am completely having a change of mind. I am extremely interested in behavioral sciences and hoped this school would be perfect. I am disappointed to have read that a vast majority of students have not had the best experience.
125 D.C. campus? Sep 29th, 2011 at 7:22 am

Does anyone know about the D.C. campus. It has just opened about a year ago…I am worried now. I was set on going to this school.
126 schody z drewna Oct 11th, 2011 at 3:24 pm

Needed to draft you that bit of remark to finally give thanks yet again with the magnificent tactics you have contributed at this time. It was really remarkably generous of people like you to allow unhampered all that some people would’ve supplied for an ebook in making some money for their own end, specifically given that you could possibly have done it if you ever considered necessary. Those good tips additionally acted like a fantastic way to be aware that other people have the identical dream the same as mine to grasp a lot more regarding this matter. I am certain there are a lot more pleasant times in the future for individuals who examine your website.
127 TherapistJim Oct 12th, 2011 at 2:47 pm

The school needs an Ombudsman. If anything can come from my suffering, the comments above scream for some congressman of a victimized student to lobby for this change. In my case, the administration ordered my own dissertation committee professors to not communicate with me except by email because of a lie. They accused, without any evidence or vague explanation of what they were referring to, they accused me of receiving “extraordinary assistance.” — empty words like “hope and change.” We might as well be living in the novel 1984 by Orwell. Read that book (1984) and see how administration” can become a cruel and punitive God and paying students can become slaves to a hierarchy that must be brought down by APA. The student is the paying customer – a point that was lost during the reign of confusion and sadness wrought on me and my family. The idea of Academic Accreditation continues to be more and more worthless as the governing bodies granting this status continue to not investigate some of these abuses. Google TellMeWhatsOnYourMindJim for more information. J
128 Ed McLoughlin Oct 27th, 2011 at 8:00 am

There is good and bad in everything!
I have recently recieved a PsyD from the LA campus. I had great teachers and bad teachers (Who were removed). Overall I enjoyed the whole process. I learned I now have a doctorate from a good school with a great reputation. Only half the people I started with were able to finish. The ones that couldn’t were bitter about costs and grades. This school does not just give you a degree, you have to really work for it, at least I had to.
The administration had some problems because of growth. They keep buying other schools. The cost rose significantly over the 4 years I attended.
129 Recent MFT graduate - LA Campus Dec 12th, 2011 at 10:31 am

I just graduated from the LA campus with a MA in clinical psych – MFT.

I didn’t like all of the faculty but never had any problems with them. I also liked a lot of the faculty,too. My cohort tended to complain A LOT and I really despised the complainers. They were always students who could not handle the workload, received a bad grade on something, or simply could not adapt to different teaching methods.

The students who did not complain were the students who did their work on time, payed attention in class and actually participated.

Yes, sometimes it was difficult to get responses back via email so the best way was to just go see them in person instead of complain and whine about it. From my cohort alone, I have never met a larger group of people who complain and moan and whine over small things or because of their incompetence.

If you go to this school, just sit in the front half of the class, pay attention, take constant notes, record lectures, and build rapport with your professors.

Some of the coursework was easy and some of the coursework was difficult so just study hard for the difficult classes.

Other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed my 2 years in the downtown LA campus.
130 Debbie Dec 13th, 2011 at 12:27 am

I am currently a student at TCS and am so disgusted with the way I have been tossed around. If you have an issue with anyone on the inside, be prepared to have to fight with all your might. They stick together like glue, the whole bunch of them. The faculty is disappointing to say the least… the curriculum is likely easier than what you will expect, but it will also keep you busy. What drives me nuts is the complete lack of support. The online classroom is like a three ring circus… this school has no business teaching classes online. They are completely unorganized, overpriced, and disappointing. I have a class that requires that I watch videos online…. too bad I haven’t been able to open any of them because the tech crew doesn’t know what they’re doing. The professor cannot watch them either…. and nobody will do anything about it.. we’ve been complaining for 7 weeks now. Very disheartening to say then least… I was counting on graduating in 2013, but now I’m hustling to find another school. After this week, the end of the first semester, I will be out of there.

Never in my life have I felt so misunderstood. The staff and some faculty are dramatic and unprofessional. If you have a problem you might as well forget finding support because nobody there is taught what that means. A school of psychology? I doubt it… if it was all that they say it is, we would be taken care of because most of us psych majors care about people.

I have been taking classes since August…. I’m not out of the first semester yet and I am feeling like I’ve made one of my biggest mistakes ever. I graduated Summa Cum Laude in July, right before coming here…. I’m not stupid or lazy, so people that are defending the TCS crew and blaming the student need to stop. Unless you are some kind of PET, you won’t make it here. I feel as though I’m ruined somehow… the disgust I feel from the treatment received has caused a great deal of regret. I have taken classes at three different schools and I worked at one of them… this is the first time I have not been able to resolve issues like an adult. If you complain here, you will soon have an army of people telling you that you are all wrong, and soon you will be left alone to fend for yourself. I don’t even have an advisor!!! I asked for a new one because the dummy they gave me didn’t register me for all necessary classes the first half of this semester. Thankfully i was able to prove it wasn’t my fault, otherwise I would have failed a class I didn’t even know about…..

I would strongly recommend that people think this over carefully. Most of the posts here are negative, this should tell you something. Unless you have no emotions and a great deal of patience, you will not make it here. God forbid you ever complain… because when you do… you will see what it’s like to be ALL ALONE there really quick! Now what is going to happen to your hopes of success?! I complained about a class I was in and then tried to get a new advisor after realizing mine was braindead…. now it feels as though I’ve been blacklisted! Now who do I go to for help?!! I have nobody! The way these people are will ruin a person. We are in a very delicate field. One of the main objectives is to help people…. so why don’t they help? Good question! and it’s one I will never get answered!!!

Debbie