education graduate programs that don't require gre

• Affiliate Program

• UNITED STATES
• 台灣 (TAIWAN)
• TÜRKIYE (TURKEY)
• Academic Editing Services
• - Research Paper
• - Journal Manuscript
• - Dissertation
• - College & University Assignments
• Admissions Editing Services
• - Application Essay
• - Personal Statement
• - Recommendation Letter
• - Cover Letter
• - CV/Resume
• Business Editing Services
• - Business Documents
• - Report & Brochure
• - Website & Blog
• Writer Editing Services
• - Script & Screenplay
• Our Editors
• Client Reviews
• Editing & Proofreading Prices
• Wordvice Points
• Partner Discount
• Plagiarism Checker
• APA Citation Generator
• MLA Citation Generator
• Chicago Citation Generator
• Vancouver Citation Generator
• - APA Style
• - MLA Style
• - Chicago Style
• - Vancouver Style
• Writing & Editing Guide
• Academic Resources
• Admissions Resources

Graduate Schools That Don’t Require GRE Scores for 2023-2024

Most prospective US graduate school applicants from around the world take the GRE if they are interested in pursuing a master’s degree, MBA, or JD. GRE scores are used to supplement applicants’ undergraduate records, recommendation letters , and other qualifying materials for graduate admissions because they are a common way to measure applicants.

However, if you are wondering if there are schools that don’t require GRE scores, the good news is that many schools do NOT require applicants to take this exam. Although it is widely used and commonly required, there are still many schools offering GRE waivers. This article breaks down what the GRE is used for and lists schools that do not include GRE scores as an essential requirement for acceptance to their graduate programs.

Table of Contents

• What is the GRE?
• When Not to Submit GRE Scores?

Factors Influencing Application to Schools Offering GRE Waivers

• Graduate Schools That Don’t Require a GRE

What is the GRE exam?

The Graduate Record Exam , or GRE, is a standardized test designed to determine the likelihood of a graduate school applicant’s successful completion in graduate education, at a master’s or doctorate degree level. The GRE test is a common requirement for graduate programs. 

Today, the number of schools in the US offering GRE waivers is increasing–but to be specific, only in certain circumstances. Nonetheless, just because a school does not require that applicants take the GRE does not mean that it has low academic standards.    

When NOT to Submit GRE Scores?

It may be a difficult decision to make whether or not to submit GRE test scores when applying to schools offering GRE waivers. The following may help you answer the question of when not to submit GRE score or any other standardized test scores:

• COVID-19 limits the opportunity for applicants to take the exam. Due to current global circumstances, many schools consider it acceptable for students to decide not to take the test out of an abundance of caution.
• Applicants may focus on essays, SOPs, and other requirements while the application deadline is fast approaching.
• Test results do not reflect the achievements and potential of the applicants. Students can demonstrate their abilities and strengths through essays.
• The schools that waive GRE scores would not perceive the absence of scores negatively but they might consider moderate or low scores as a negative indicator.

However, acceptable conditions for omitting the GRE notwithstanding, the question still remains: “Should I take the GRE?” Here are a few facts that might help you make this decision:

• Submitting GRE scores when applying to graduate schools with GRE waivers may increase your chance of getting a scholarship. 
• If you believe your GPA is not strong enough, you may consider appealing your quantitative qualities through test scores.
• If your professional experience does not meet the minimum requirement for the program you are applying for, your GRE score will allow the admissions committee to better understand your strengths.
• If you are not confident that your essays will strongly appeal to the admissions committee, submitting GRE scores may give you an opportunity to get through.

If you decide not to submit your GRE score, you can certainly focus on other factors that will help you stand out. The factors would include academic history, professional experience, SOP, Letters of Recommendation, CV/Resume, etc.

• Academic History : A student’s undergraduate GPA is likely to be the most important factor reviewed by the graduate admissions committee. Usually, grad school applicants are required to obtain at least a 3.0 on 4.0 scale in their undergraduate studies. If your GPA is lower than a 3.0, it could be a good idea to take the GRE. ( Get assignment editing for college and university work )
• Professional Experience : Not every graduate program requires professional experiences or internships, but some MBA programs and clinical psychology degrees hold professional experience in higher regard than do other academic departments or programs. 
• Graduate Statement of Purpose (SOP) : Most graduate programs will require 1-2 pages of personal statement to better understand applicants’ academic potential and writing skills. The universities will provide instructions or questions for applicants’ to answer through their SOP and require an explanation of academic background and professional goals. ( Get personal statement editing or Statement of Purpose editing )
• Letters of Recommendation : Applicants are required to submit 2 to 3 letters of recommendation from faculty and/or previous employers. An important tip is to find an appropriate person (usually a professor or professional manager) with a basic understanding of your achievements and academic records willing to write the letter of recommendation for you. ( Get recommendation letter editing )
• Academic CV/Resume : Graduate schools requiring prior experience are likely to ask for a resume or academic CV. Applicants may add details such as awards, recognitions, community involvement, projects, etc. You could use these documents in lieu of a GRW if you choose not to take the exam. ( Get CV and resume editing )

Which graduate schools don’t require GRE scores?

Applying to graduate schools that do not require GRE scores can be a great opportunity for non-traditional applicants to pursue a master’s or another higher-learning degree. Whether a GRE is required or not, the most important factors to consider when applying for graduate schools are what degree you want to pursue and which academic institution you want to attend to earn the degree.

It is important to do some extensive research using the admissions websites of prospective graduate schools and through consultation with the graduate admissions office(via email and/or phone). 

Below is a list of 20 graduate schools and programs that do not require a GRE.

• Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
• Western Governors University
• Purdue University Global
• Strayer University
• Capella University
• Walden University
• Colorado Technical University
• Northcentral University
• Liberty University
• University of Southern California
• Simmons University
• Nova Southeastern University
• University of Scranton
• Benedictine University
• American University
• NYU School of Social Work
• Boston University
• Antioch University
• Utica College
• Ashford University

And get instant editing and proofreading using FREE AI Grammar Checker created by Wordvice AI for students and researchers.

Wordvice Business & Writer Editing Services

After landing that sweet job position when you finish your graduate degree, be sure to get editing services for any of your crucial documents before sending them to colleagues, clients, or users. Check out our list of business editing and writer editing services below.

• Document Editing Services
• Report Editing Services
• Blog Editing Services
• Editing Services for Writers
• Script Editing Services
• Book Editing Services

• Graduate School

Graduate Programs That Don't Require GRE

Featured Expert: Dr. Charlene Hoi, PhD

Graduate programs that don’t require GRE are an option if you’re thinking about grad school but don’t have the time and preparation to take the GRE. Should you take the GRE before applying, you can still submit your scores along with the other parts of your application, such as your graduate school cover letter, grad school letter of recommendation, or research resume. If your scores are good, they can definitely help your application. However, some programs will not consider your GRE scores at all and if that is the case, you should not submit them. But if you haven’t taken the GRE yet, you can apply to several master’s and PhD programs in both the US and Canada without it, as long as you meet other important requirements. This article will give you a list of schools and graduate programs that don’t require GRE, whether they’re worth it, and what else you need to get into grad school.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Listen to the blog!

Article Contents 12 min read

List of graduate programs that don’t require gre (us).

• American University Washington DC (not required for graduate certificates and some Master’s programs)
• Ohio University (university-wide; GRE-optional)
• Stanford University (university-wide; GRE-optional)
• Harvard University (program-dependent; GRE-optional)
• Columbia University (program-dependent; GRE-optional)
• West Texas A&M University (university-wide)
• Cornell University (program-dependent; GRE-optional)
• Duke University (program-dependent; GRE is optional for some programs and required for others)

Wondering if you should go to grad school? Watch this video:

List of Graduate Programs that Don’t Require GRE (Canada)

• University of Waterloo
• Carleton University
• University of Alberta
• Memorial University
• Royal Roads University  

Yes, graduate programs that don’t require the GRE are excellent programs, and some are offered by some of the best universities in the US and Canada. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) was used for a long time (almost 80 years) to assess your skills in three main areas, namely, math, reading, writing and comprehension, which are tested by the three different sections of the test:

• Analytical Writing
• Verbal Reasoning
• Quantitative Reasoning

But the GRE has fallen out of favor recently, for reasons we’ll talk about later. However, that doesn’t reflect on the programs that do or do not require it; it has more to do with the test itself rather than the programs. Despite the fact that the use of the GRE in graduate school admissions is becoming more sporadic, there are still programs at universities in Canada and colleges in the US that require it, so you have to decide whether you are willing to take the test to get into a dream program or choose a program that does not require the GRE at all.

The GRE requirement falls into three categories:

• Not Accepted or considered
• Considered (optional)

You have to pay attention to these particular requirements. Submitting your scores to a program that does not accept them will not necessarily hurt your application, but they won’t be considered, you’ll end up wasting time and it does look bad, especially if the requirement is clear and made explicit.

The Considered requirement means you can send your GRE scores if you have them and they are not older than the five years, which is how long your GRE scores are valid. Depending on the program or school, you may also be able to submit your old scores, but you have to ask the particular program whether they have this option. The Required option is self-explanatory.

There is no correlation, mostly, between the GRE being required and a particular discipline or field. For example, you would imagine that many graduate-level programs at the best universities in Canada for computer science , or the best universities in Canada for engineering , require a standardized test such as the GRE, but they do not. Who still asks for the GRE is not based on the subject matter, but that program’s individual criteria and administrators.

There are even more variations. For example, the Economics Department at Carleton University does not require GRE scores for the master’s program, but it does for the PhD programs, and this is a division you might see repeated across various schools and programs.

You should also not assume that arts, humanities, and social sciences programs don’t require the GRE, as the Political Science and Psychology departments at the University of British Columbia both require it. So, you really have to do your research first into which graduate programs require or don’t require the GRE, especially if you want to apply there.

Is the GRE Worth It?

Whether the GRE is “worth it” or not depends on many factors. As with other contentious issues surrounding higher education admissions, there is no right side to this argument, and those who oppose the GRE have as many good arguments as those who support it. But if you are thinking about how to get into grad school , you should ask yourself the following questions about whether you need to take the GRE or not:

• Does your program require it, is it optional or not accepted?
• Is the program you are applying to very competitive? (meaning GRE good scores can give you an upper hand)
• Do you have the time and resources to prepare for the test?
• Are you an international, mature or non-traditional student who may not be able to submit other important application materials, such as recommendation letters?
• Do you have a low GPA and are wondering how to get into grad school with a low GPA ?

A minimum GPA is often a more prevalent requirement that the GRE, especially for PhD programs, but many programs, usually master’s, will accept a low GPA if your GRE scores are higher than average. However, this policy is also program-dependent and you have to inquire what concessions or accommodations your program offers to various types of students.

All these questions and more are important to consider before you decide to take the GRE, or not. Another complication is that many graduate-level, professional programs such as law schools and MBA programs have started to accept the GRE as an alternative to the tests associated with those programs, namely, the Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) and the General Management Admissions Test (GMAT).

The law schools that don’t require the LSAT still require either the GRE or GMAT, so if you plan to go into a professional program or even an MBA, you need to consider whether you should take the LSAT, GMAT or GRE, depending on where you are applying, and which test is easier for you to take. But as with law schools, medical schools and graduate programs, there are many MBA programs that don’t require the GMAT or GRE, so you can go that route as well.

Why Have Graduate Programs Stopped Accepting the GRE?

Believe it or not, once upon a time, the GRE was used to increase access to grad school, not decrease it, as many of its critics now accuse. The GRE was used as a way to increase enrollment amongst veterans returning from WWII, who did not graduate from Ivy Leage colleges in the US and needed a common denominator that assessed their skills and fitness for grad school. However, new studies have questioned whether the GRE is an accurate predictor of your abilities and whether it accurately determines how well you’ll do in grad school.

Other studies have gone further to discredit the GRE. The company that administers the GRE, Educational Testing Services (ETS), has commissioned studies on how various minority groups (women and racial minorities) perform on the test, and they found that both women, and racialized students score much lower than white test-takers. Compounding this problem is the fact that grad schools usually had minimum GRE score requirements, so anyone (mostly women and racialized students) who fell below that minimum were automatically disqualified.

ETS argued that these studies point out systemic inequality within the education system, and not the test’s inherent bias or prejudice. But what’s most striking about the GRE’s downfall is how quickly it has fallen out of favor and how so many graduate programs that don’t require GRE have sprung up as a result.

The same study commissioned by ETS that found discrimination against women and minorities also found that within a four-year period, the number of test-takes nosedived by half (50%), which is a monumental change over a short period of time, especially for higher education institutions and professional associations who are notoriously resistant to change.

Even more startling is the fact that now only 3% of major STEM programs within top-ranked US schools require the GRE, when, only four years ago, 84% of these same programs required the GRE. But even with all these studies and statistics, some of the top-ranked schools in the US have kept the GRE requirements. They have their arguments, which we’ll explore more in the following sections.

Graduate Programs that Don’t Require the GRE: Pros and Cons of Taking the GRE

Pros of taking the gre.

High Scores are an Admissions Edge

There is little about the admissions process that is objective. Aside from your GPA, which is a major factor, all the other ways that graduate school admissions committees evaluate your application are subjective, such as reviewing your grad school personal statement and grad school statement of intent , and observing you answer tough grad school interview questions . For a program that does not allow you to submit the GRE, this will be enough. But if a program makes submitting your GRE scores optional, if they’re good scores, they can boost your application. Standardized tests have some value, despite their flaws. An excellent MCAT score or an exceptional LSAT score at the highest end of the LSAT score range will fling the doors wide open to your preferred medical or law school, and even though many grad school programs have moved away from the GRE, they are still willing to consider it for your benefit and will be as impressed as those other schools and programs.

It’s a Good Way to Develop New Skills or Improve Them

Being a grad student often requires a lot of interdisciplinary work, and you’ll more often than not require skills in several areas, not just your specialization, which is why preparing for the GRE can help you develop or sharpen these skills. We’ll get more into the GRE sections and how long it is (usually, a little less than four hours) in other blogs, but it’s not easy, and you have to prepare well in advance to be able to get a worthwhile score. The preparation involves a lot of reading, developing comprehension skills, and solving math problems, so you’ll have to prepare as you did for the SAT and ACT . But the content of the GRE is much more difficult than either the SAT or ACT so you do need to study, especially if it’s been a while since you did any math.

Gives You More Options when Applying

The GRE is not an insignificant factor to consider when looking for your ideal grad school program. But if you’re passionate about a specific school, program and faculty member, you shouldn’t let the GRE stop you if the program requires it. Getting into grad school is hard, and choosing a non-GRE program is one way to make the process easier, but having GRE scores in the run-up to when you apply can give you more options. You might find a program that appeals to you more than others and has a GRE requirement, which won’t be an obstacle for you, since you already have scores or are willing to take the test to get into this particular program. This option may only apply to you if you are willing and able to study for the GRE . If you’re a mature student or you already took the GRE before and have valid scores, and you’re more anxious about starting grad school than preparing for the test, choosing a non-GRE program may be the right move.

It’s an Investment of Time and Money

How long and how much you put into preparing for the GRE depends on your grad school application timeline , like when you are thinking of applying and the individual deadlines for your preferred programs. The two types of GRE tests cover different things. The GRE subject tests are more based in your knowledge of a specific subject, such as Psychology, Physics or Chemistry, so you can approach studying for it in the same way that you would for an undergraduate exam: memorizing facts, words, and concepts; being able to figure out particular math problems in algebra and geometry.

But the GRE general covers your analytical, or logical reasoning, and your problem-solving abilities so you won’t need to learn a new set of skills exactly, but sharpen and adjust them to particular demands of the GRE. This requires a lot of time and if you invest in a GRE tutor or any GRE test prep materials it may cost a lot. Factor this, and the costs of taking the GRE, into your budget to take the exam and it might not seem a good investment, especially if your program does not require it.

It Takes Away from Other Application Materials

The time and money you put into preparing for the GRE can either be saved or put into something more important (and required) by your graduate school program, like a PhD motivation letter , personal statement or research proposal. Now that many schools have eschewed the GRE there is even more pressure on you to produce exceptional application materials. Freeing yourself from the added burden of preparing for and taking the GRE will give you more time to put all your efforts behind the other crucial aspects of your graduate school application.

It’s Not a Good Predictor of Your Success

If you have to take the GRE or decide to take it for whatever reason, getting a good score may lull you into the belief that you are completely prepared for the rigors of grad school, even though you may not be. Entering a PhD program is one thing, but completing your PhD is an entirely different beast. Unless you choose a PhD without dissertation or thesis program , you’ll have to write one, which is so difficult only half of PhD STEM students actually complete one. Completing a master’s has its own unique challenges, and the GRE does not, some argue, prepare you for any of these challenges at all. Preparing for the test does have its advantages, in terms of helping you get a good mark, but critics of the GRE have long argued that it does not predict whether you have the fortitude, resilience, and hard-working attitude to complete a master’s or PhD degree.

How to Increase your Chances to Get into Grad School without the GRE

Getting a Good GPA

A minimum GPA is a more widely-used admissions requirement than the GRE, and you should focus on excelling in high-level, senior courses so that you get your average to well-above the required minimum, which usually ranges from 70-75%. The actual range depends on your program, but it’s common for many programs, Masters or PhD to require a minimum GPA to apply, and maintain a minimum GPA when you’re in the program. If you want to go to grad school and are worried about your GPA, you should take steps as early as possible, because you’ll need time to increase it. You should try taking courses that are easier for you or take extracurricular courses during summer break to boost your GPA to more competitive levels.

Do Research in a Relevant Area 

Your reasons for going to grad school may vary, but many people go to grad school to pursue a specific research question or topic, which is why having the appropriate research experience is important for when you are applying. The research aspect is more important when you’re applying to a PhD, so during your Master’s you should explore what research areas by volunteering to work on other colleagues' research projects or even faculty projects. These experiences are great to put on a CV for grad school , but they will also teach you valuable skills such as how to publish as a graduate student or how to write a Master’s thesis proposal .

Get Good Letters of Recommendation

When doing your research in the lead-up to grad school or a doctorate, you should participate, but find ways to distinguish yourself as well, which is important for two reasons: it makes you stand out from others, but it also leaves a good impression on research supervisors and faculty members who you could ask for a recommendation in the future. Even though there are ways for how to get into grad school without recommendation letters, they are usually an indispensable part of getting into grad school at top-ranked schools and programs. Having letters written by those who have witnessed your intelligence, determination, creativity and resilience in action and are willing to put it in writing is maybe even more important than taking the GRE.

The list of graduate programs that don’t require GRE is growing every day and whether the test will be done away with for good remains to be seen. There are flaws to the test, but many schools are still hesitant to eliminate the requirement altogether, so you need to pick your program carefully if you want to avoid the test. But if the program is more important to you, and it requires or recommends the GRE, you should take the test.

Whether you take the GRE depends on a lot of different factors. If the program you are applying to requires it, then it’s not a question of “should” - you must take the test. But if you are either not interested in taking the GRE for whatever reason and the programs you are interested in do not require it, then you should focus on other parts of your grad school application, such as getting the right research experience, getting good letters of recommendation, and having a specific research topic that you want to pursue.

We talked about the reasons why the GRE is being gradually phased out, but the reasons stem from whether the test is an unfair gateway to people who do not have the time or resources to prepare for the test, and the supposition that it does not accurately predict whether you are ready for grad school.

How hard is the GRE ? The exact difficulty of the GRE is one of the things being called into question, with many accusing the GRE of preparing students to take the test, and not to be excellent grad students. While the test is challenging, it does not require you to become familiar with an unfamiliar set of questions, as with the LSAT, and you will be tested more on your knowledge than creativity. The problem-solving and analysis on the GRE is similar to the SAT and ACT, but with a higher level of difficulty. 

Preparing for the GRE depends on how much time you have before you application deadlines, and your skill level in the areas the GRE tests. If you are way behind on your math, reading and comprehension skill, then you should take up to three months. But many students prepare in only a few weeks, as the GRE is a more familiar exam in both the content and format than other tests such as the LSAT, and does not take as long to complete as the MCAT.

The GRE is offered throughout the year, and there are many versions you can take, including shortened ones that do not have all the sections. What you should focus on more when choosing a GRE test date is the application deadline for your preferred program, if you haven’t already taken the GRE. If you have taken it within the last five years, this doesn’t apply to you, but if the deadline is fast approaching you should take it as soon as possible. If you still have time, you can choose when you want to take it based on your preferences. 

No, not really. There are differences between graduate programs, in general, but many programs have simply removed the test from their admission requirements without having any significant impact on their curricula or teaching methods. 

Some argue yes, others say no. Many students who have not taken the GRE have both successfully completed their degree and been able to transition from academia to industry.

But they may have not been able to do this if their program required the GRE, and they were not admitted because of their low scores, even though they proved they were able to complete grad school. Now many programs are turning to more conventional admissions metrics such as your GPA, research experience and how well you do during the interview. 

The GRE test has different prices, as the company has released different versions of the test. But the usual fee for the normal test is around $200 but with fees and other costs it can get up to $220. 

Want more free tips? Subscribe to our channels for more free and useful content!

Apple Podcasts

Like our blog? Write for us ! >>

Have a question ask our admissions experts below and we'll answer your questions, get started now.

Talk to one of our admissions experts

Our site uses cookies. By using our website, you agree with our cookie policy .

FREE Training Webinar:

How to make your grad school application stand out, (and avoid the top 5 mistakes that get most rejected).

Time Sensitive. Limited Spots Available:

We guarantee you'll get into grad school or you don't pay.

Swipe up to see a great offer!

Top Online MBA Programs: No GMAT, GRE Required

Applicants don't need to submit test scores to these programs, regardless of grades or work experience.

Getty Images |

Look into standardized test requirements.

Applicants looking for admissions into top online MBA programs may not need to submit standardized test scores. Of the 341 ranked online MBA programs that submitted information about their testing policies to U.S. News in an annual survey, 125 reported that they require neither a GMAT nor a GRE test score from applicants, and another 98 said they don't consider test scores in admissions decisions. But 20 programs still require a GMAT score and another 98 require either a GMAT or GRE score. All but two schools that require test scores allow applicants to waive testing requirements if they meet certain criteria, such as possessing a particular amount of work experience or a high college GPA. Here are the top 10 online MBA programs that are test-optional or test-blind, all ranking in the top 20 nationally, according to U.S. News' 2024 rankings.

Matt Binter | Kansas State University

Kansas State University

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 18 (tie)

Test submission policy: Scores aren't used to make admissions decisions

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 98%

Learn more about Kansas State University's online MBA program .

Bryce Richter | UW-Madison

• University of Wisconsin MBA Consortium

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 12 (tie)

Test submission policy: Not usually required but accepted

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 94%

Learn more about the University of Wisconsin MBA Consortium .

(Photo by Sarah L. Voisin | The Washington Post via Getty Images)

University of Maryland—College Park (Smith)

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 11

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 86%

Learn more about University of Maryland—College Park's online MBA program .

Rochester Institute of Technology |

Rochester Institute of Technology (NY) (Saunders)

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 9 (tie)

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 50%

Learn more about Rochester Institute of Technology's online MBA program .

Arizona State University |

Arizona State University (Carey)

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 7 (tie)

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 80%

Learn more about Arizona State University's online MBA program .

The University of Arizona |

University of Arizona (Eller)

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 74%

Learn more about the University of Arizona's online MBA program .

Florida State University |

University of Florida (Warrington)

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 6

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 56%

Learn more about the University of Florida's online MBA program .

Ed Carreon |

University of Southern California (Marshall)

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 3 (tie)

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 46%

Learn more about the University of Southern California's online MBA program .

(Katherine B. Turner | University of Washington)

University of Washington (Foster)

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 73%

Learn more about the University of Washington's online MBA program .

Indiana University |

Indiana University—Bloomington (Kelley)

U.S. News online MBA program rank: 1

Acceptance rate (2022-2023): 27%

Learn more about Indiana University's online MBA program .

(Getty Images) |

Learn more about online MBA programs.

Read the online MBA degree overview to learn about the job outlook for this field and explore the complete rankings of the 2024 Best Online MBA Programs . For additional advice on selecting the right online MBA, connect with U.S. News Education on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook .

iStockphoto |

The top 10 online MBA programs that don’t require the GMAT or GRE.

• Indiana University Kelley School of Business
• University of Southern California Marshall School of Business
• University of Washington Michael G. Foster School of Business
• University of Florida Warrington College of Business
• Arizona State University W.P. Carey School of Business
• University of Arizona Eller College of Management
• Rochester Institute of Technology Saunders College of Business
• University of Maryland—College Park Robert H. Smith School of Business
• Kansas State University College of Business Administration

More From U.S. News

Explore the Top Online MBA Programs

10 Most Affordable Online MBA Programs

How to Find Money to Pay for an MBA

2024 Best Online Programs

Compare online degree programs using the new U.S. News rankings and data.

You May Also Like

20 lower-cost online private colleges.

Sarah Wood March 21, 2024

Basic Components of an Online Course

Cole Claybourn March 19, 2024

Attending an Online High School

Cole Claybourn Feb. 20, 2024

Online Programs With Diverse Faculty

Sarah Wood Feb. 16, 2024

Online Learning Trends to Know Now

Sarah Wood Feb. 8, 2024

Veterans Considering Online College

Anayat Durrani Feb. 8, 2024

Affordable Out-of-State Online Colleges

Sarah Wood Feb. 7, 2024

The Cost of an Online Bachelor's Degree

Emma Kerr and Cole Claybourn Feb. 7, 2024

How to Select an Online College

Cole Claybourn Feb. 7, 2024

How to Balance Work and Online College

Jackson Nimesheim Feb. 7, 2024

• How to Apply
• Cost and Aid
• Information For
• Inclusive Campus
• Graduate Campus Tours
• Virtual Graduate Admissions Session
• Internal Forms and Procedures

Do I Need to Take the GRE? Not for These 7 Programs

Posted by Shelly Quance on 11/2/23 3:32 PM

Many hopeful graduate students find themselves digging through a list of requirements, fees, supplemental essays, and interviews as they consider programs and universities. If you’re eager to get started on your next degree but the road to enrolling seems daunting, you might be looking for ways to minimize your stress. 

You’re wondering, “Do I need to take the GRE?” The answer is there are many programs that don’t require the GRE!

Understanding the GRE

The GRE is often a defining factor in many graduate program applications. With its reputation for rigorous questions and the pressure it brings, the test often becomes a significant hurdle along the path to further education.

There’s a financial barrier to taking the GRE. The test costs $205 per attempt and $35 to send to the programs you have applied to. There’s a time commitment for hours of studying and four hours to sit for the exam. If you’re familiar with test anxiety then you know that the GRE might also increase the amount of stress in your life.

Students often ask if navigating these obstacles is necessary to pursue a graduate degree . We’re happy to report that at WVU we have a long list of programs, across disciplines, that don’t require the GRE. 

WVU Programs That Don’t Require the GRE

Several graduate programs at West Virginia University understand these challenges. They prioritize the diverse knowledge and skills students bring over standardized test scores. Let’s walk through seven such programs at WVU that do not require the GRE for application.

Political Science

If you have an interest in public administration, international relations, and policy-making, then our Political Science program is for you. The program leads graduates to a variety of opportunities in public policy, government entities, journalism, and more. Provide academic transcripts, articulate statements of purpose, and share three letters of recommendation to complete your application process.

Social Work

For those dedicated to uplifting your community, our Social Work program paves an excellent path. Potential career outcomes include healthcare, mental health, education, and child welfare. Your application will include a personal statement, your resume, academic transcripts, and three letters of recommendation.

Nursing MSN

Equipping students with superior skills for advanced practice nursing, our Nursing MSN program opens avenues for exciting roles across a wide spectrum of healthcare institutions. You’ll include your nursing licensure, detailed transcripts, and professional references in your application to be considered for admission. 

Business Data Analytics

Dedicated to fostering proficiency in data-driven decision-making, our online Business Data Analytics program prepares students to excel in data analysis, data management, and business intelligence. Your application will focus on strong academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, a letter of recommendation, and official transcripts. 

Nutritional and Food Science

In our Nutritional and Food Science program , students dive into the intricate world of dietary and nutritional sciences. From nutrition consulting to food science research and public health, the career avenues are vast. Transcripts, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation will be used to determine admissibility to the program. 

Public Health

Our Masters of Public Health program is designed for those with an unwavering commitment to community health, disease prevention, and health promotion. An impactful career in health departments, non-profits, and healthcare organizations is within reach. Prepare a résumé, a personal statement, academic transcripts, and three letters of recommendation for the application.

Art Education

Artists and educators converge in our Art Education program , where encouraging creative and critical thinking takes the forefront. Thrive as art teachers, community art coordinators, and museum educators— all you need is an art portfolio, recommendation letters, and transcripts to accompany your application.

Moving Forward with Your Applications 

Don't let entrance exams like the GRE deter your academic dreams. West Virginia University offers a long list of programs that heavily weigh your skills and experiences in your application. Removing the GRE requirement might seem minor, but it clears a significant obstacle for many prospective graduate students.

Explore the full list of programs that don’t require the GRE to make your mark on research excellence and innovation. 

Other programs that don’t require the GRE: 

Recommended for you

Topics: GRE , WVU Graduate Programs , Graduate School Resources

Posted by Shelly Quance

Shelly Quance has spent almost 20 years working in higher education marketing communications. She currently serves as Director for West Virginia University’s Office of Graduate Admissions and Recruitment where she works collaboratively with College leadership to develop, implement, and evaluate creative and effective comprehensive communication and marketing plans to increase graduate student enrollment.

About the Blog

Deciding what graduate school to attend can be daunting at times, and navigating the admissions process can be that much more difficult. We hope to make the journey from considering graduate school to enrolling in a graduate program easier by publishing content that will be helpful to you as you discern if, when, and where, to pursue your next degree.

The gre cheat sheet

Learn about useful GRE information, practice tests, and prep courses available to you.

2020 Colloquium for   Underrepresented Aspiring Doctoral Candidates

Deadline Extended to Feb 15, 2020

Subscribe to Email Updates

• WVU Graduate Programs (89)
• Graduate School Resources (40)
• Graduate Degrees in STEM (32)
• Industry Research & Advice (32)
• Student and Alumni Testimonials (31)
• Funding Your Graduate Education (28)
• WVU Admissions Resources (16)
• Standardized Test Prep (8)
• Graduate School (6)
• Career Options (2)
• WVU Online Degree Programs (2)
• Alternative Careers (1)
• Data Marketing Communications (1)
• Integrated Marketing Communications (1)
• Podcast Resources (1)
• Research (1)

40 Psychology Graduate Programs that Don’t Require the GRE

Check out the latest psychology graduate programs that don’t require the GRE for 2024. Explore in-demand graduate programs offered by schools with no GRE.

How people think directly influences how they act. If you’re fascinated by human thought and behavior, then it may be time to apply to a graduate program in psychology.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Jobs for psychologists are expected to increase 3 percent in the next ten years (Bureau of Labor Statistics), and a grad degree can help prepare you for success in those positions.

Universities Offering Psychology Graduate Programs Without a GRE Requirement

The following universities are regionally accredited and offer psychology graduate programs online. In addition, the universities either offer a GRE waiver to qualified students or have no GRE requirement at all for admission.

1. Abilene Christian University

In an on-campus program at Abilene Christian University in Texas, you can earn your master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, Counseling Psychology or General Psychology. In addition to classroom work that covers topics like statistics, cognition, ethics, assessments, psychotherapy, and research, students in these programs participate in a practicum experience.

• On-campus Master’s in Clinical Psychology
• On-campus Master’s in Counseling Psychology
• On-campus Master’s in General Psychology

ACU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

2. Adler University

Founded in 1952, Adler strives to develop professionals and practitioners who will better their local communities and the world. Driven by the work of physician and psychotherapist Alfred Adler, the school values fairness, equality and civil rights and helps students learn to put these concepts into practice.

• Online Doctor of Psychology in Industrial & Organizational Psychology

Adler University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

3. Alliant International University

Recognized as a top school for minorities by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education Magazine and Best for Vets Colleges by Military Times EDGE magazine, Alliant values diversity in the classroom and the workforce. Students are encouraged to have a global perspective, a desire for community service and a commitment to equality. Believing that hands-on experiences are essential for a well-rounded education, the school connects students to the community throughout its degree programs.

• Online Doctor of Psychology

Alliant is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

4. American International College

On the Massachusetts campus of American International College, you can choose one of four different psychology master’s degree programs: Clinical, Counseling, Forensic or General Psychology. If you opt for Clinical Psychology, you can further refine your focus by choosing a Forensic Psychology or Mental Health concentration.

• On-campus Master’s in Forensic Psychology

AIC is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

5. Antioch University

Equal rights, equal pay and equal educational opportunities for minorities and women have long been important at Antioch. In the 1800s, Antioch was one of the first institutions of higher education that admitted both whites and African-Americans, and the school’s list of famous alumni includes Coretta Scott King.

• Online Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Antioch University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

6. Ball State University

You can study online with Indiana’s Ball State University to earn a master’s degree in Educational Psychology. Another option is to get your degree in Quantitative Psychology through an online or hybrid course of study. Each program offers further concentrations, such as Neuropsychology, through which you can tailor your studies.

• Online Master’s in Educational Psychology
• Online Master’s in Quantitative Psychology

BSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

7. California Baptist University

Through online study, you can earn a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from California Baptist University. During this program, you’ll be required to complete a practicum and write a case report. You can select to complete your coursework through a synchronous or asynchronous format, and you’ll be expected to engage with fellow students each week.

• Online Master’s in Counseling Psychology

California Baptist University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities.

8. California Lutheran University

You can take classes on the campus of California Lutheran University to earn an MS in Counseling Psychology or Clinical Psychology. Counseling Psychology students must complete a practicum and are eligible to take a licensing exam after graduation. Clinical Psychology students write a research thesis.

In 2015, WSCUC reaffirmed Cal Lutheran ’s accreditation for another 10 years.

9. California Southern University

Through online coursework, you can earn an MA or an MS in Psychology from California Southern University. The MA program can help prepare you for becoming licensed as a marriage and family therapist. The MS program features specializations like Sports Psychology and Pastoral Counseling and is good preparation for doctoral studies.

• Online Master’s in Psychology

California Southern University is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

10. Capella University

Online master’s degree options from Capella University in Minnesota include Psychology and Clinical Psychology programs. Psychology students can choose among specializations like Educational Psychology, Applied Behavior Analysis, Industrial/Organizational Psychology and Child and Adolescent Development. Clinical Psychology students can study Applied Research, Clinical Counseling or Forensic Psychology.

• Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology – Applied Research
• Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology – Clinical Counseling
• Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology – Forensic Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Applied Behavior Analysis
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Child & Adolescent Development
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Educational Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – General Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Sport Psychology

Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

11. Felician University

Since 1942, Felician University has been providing educational experiences based on the Catholic Franciscan values of service, compassion and respect. Over 2,000 students take classes from this school each year. The university has a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, and 73 percent of classes have fewer than 20 students.

• Online Doctor of Counseling Psychology

Felician University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

12. Florida International University

The MS in Professional Counseling Psychology from Florida International University is designed to prepare you to seek licensure. This is a hybrid psychology program, so you’ll do some coursework online and some on the university’s campus. For hands-on experience, you will also be required to complete a clinical practicum and a clinical internship.

• Hybrid Master’s in Professional Counseling Psychology

Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

13. Fort Hays State University

To help prepare you to work in an educational setting, you can earn an online MS in School Psychology from Fort Hays State University in Kansas. Courses in this program include Appraisal of Children, Curriculum-based Measurement and Advanced Child Psychopathology. Before graduation, you’ll be required to compile a portfolio and take comprehensive examinations.

• Online Master’s in School Psychology

FHSU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

14. George Mason University

Virginia’s George Mason University offers a fully online program for earning an MPS in Applied Industrial and Organizational Psychology. To earn your degree, you’ll be required to take core classes like Psychological Research Methods and Personnel Selection as well as a few electives of your choosing. You will also need to complete two practicums.

• Online Master’s in Applied Industrial and Organizational Psychology

George Mason is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

15. Grand Canyon University

From Arizona’s Grand Canyon University, you can earn an MS degree with a concentration like Forensic Psychology, Geropsychology or Health Psychology. A generalist degree is available as well. Classes may include Social and Cultural Psychology and Contemporary and Ethical Issues in Psychology. You’ll be required to finish your studies with a capstone project.

• Online Doctor of Performance Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Forensic Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – GeroPsychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Health Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Human Factors Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Industrial and Organizational Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Life Coaching

GCU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

16. LeTourneau University

Earning an MA in Psychology from Texas’ LeTourneau University can help prepare you to use psychology in ministry settings. Classes include Integrative Theology for Counselors and Lifespan Human Development. Students also participate in fieldwork. This is a non-licensure degree, but credits can be transferred to the university’s MA in Counseling program.

LeTourneau is regionally accredited by: the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

17. Liberty University

Studying online with Liberty University in Virginia allows you to earn an MA in Applied Psychology with a specialization in Developmental Psychology or Industrial/Organizational Psychology. These programs include core courses like Cognitive Psychology and Psychology and Christianity. The Developmental Psychology electives provide insight into various age groups.

• Online Master’s in Applied Psychology

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

18. Lynn University

You can take online classes from Lynn University in Florida to earn a generalist MS in Psychology or one with a focus on Industrial/Organizational Psychology. All students receive an iPad that they can use for their coursework. During the program, you may get to help faculty members with research.

Lynn University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

19. Murray State University

Earning a psychology master’s degree from Murray State University requires studying on the school’s Kentucky campus, but you’ll have the options of earning an MA or an MS in General Experimental Psychology or Clinical Psychology. Your coursework will include classes like Biological Bases of Behavior, and you’ll be required to complete a thesis.

• On-campus Master’s in General Experimental Psychology

Murray State is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

20. National University

Headquartered in San Diego, California, National University offers a variety of master’s programs in psychology that can be completed online or on campus at several locations in CA. These programs are designed with busy adults in mind. Fields of study offered include mental health counseling, forensic psychology, marriage and family therapy, and human behavior.

• Online MA in Counseling Psychology (California)
• Online or On-Campus MA in Human Behavior Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MA in Marriage and Family Therapy
• Online or On-Campus MA in Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MA Sport and Performance Psychology
• Online or On-Campus Master’s in Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MS in Applied Behavioral Analysis
• Online or On-Campus MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Online or On-Campus MS in Educational Counseling
• Online or On-Campus MS in Educational Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MS in Forensic Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MS in Health Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MS in Industrial Organizational Psychology
• Online or On-Campus MS in Sport Psychology

National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

21. Northeastern University

If you’re located in Boston, consider attending classes at Northeastern University to earn an MS in Counseling Psychology. For those who can’t attend classes on this Massachusetts campus, an MS in Applied Behavior Analysis is an online option in a related field; this program includes an optional practicum.

Northeastern has maintained its status as a member in good standing of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) Commission on Institutions of Higher Education (CIHE) since it was awarded its initial accreditation in 1940.

• Online Master’s in Applied Behavior Analysis

Northeastern University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.

22. Northwest University

Affiliated with the Assemblies of God denomination, Northwest University is a Christian school with a desire to engage students who are committed to both scholarship and service. Graduates go on to work in a variety of fields, including ministry, business, medical and educational settings.

Northwestern University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

23. Nova Southeastern University

Florida’s Nova Southeastern University has online master’s programs for Forensic Psychology and General Psychology. These non-licensure programs may be useful as a pathway to a doctoral program, or you may put your education into practice in the workforce. Your coursework may include Cognitive Psychology, Human Growth and Development, and Human Sexuality.

• Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology
• Online Master’s in General Psychology

NSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

24. Pacifica Graduate Institute

By taking a mix of on-campus and online classes, you can earn a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in California. You’ll be expected to take classes in the humanities, marriage and family therapy, and clinical counseling. In addition, you will be required to complete a practicum and may eligible for MFT or LPC licensure.

In June 2019, Pacifica’s accreditation was re-affirmed by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Pacifica Graduate Institute is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

25. Palo Alto University

California’s Palo Alto University offers an online master’s program in preparation for earning your doctorate. Although classes are online, you’ll need to make one trip to campus. After earning your degree, you may be able to transfer your MS in Psychology credits toward the school’s PhD in Clinical Psychology program.

PAU is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

26. Pennsylvania State University

If you lead employees or other teams, consider pursuing an MPS in the Psychology of Leadership from Penn State World Campus. Your studies from this Pennsylvania school will include classes like Diversity Leadership, Dysfunctional Leadership and Leadership for Creativity and Innovation. You’ll also be required to engage in a culminating experience.

• Online MPS – Psychology of Leadership

Penn State World Campus is regionally accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

27. Pepperdine University

With online classes from Pepperdine University in California, you can earn an MA in Psychology or an MS in Behavioral Psychology. MA students learn about psychotherapy, counseling and interventions. The MS program includes supervised clinical experience, and it can help you prepare for taking the Board Certified Behavior Analyst exam.

• Online Master’s in Behavioral Psychology
• Online Master’s in Clinical Psychology – Marriage and Family Therapy

Pepperdine is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges—Senior College and University Commission.

28. Purdue University Global

You can earn a generalist psychology master’s degree from Purdue University Global, or you can pursue a specialty, such as Addictions or Applied Behavior Analysis. Before graduation, you can choose whether to take a comprehensive exam or write a thesis paper. Your coursework may prepare you to take certification exams.

Purdue University Global is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

29. Sacred Heart University

While earning your master’s degree through Sacred Heart University ’s hybrid format, you’ll take classes like Foundations of Psychological Science and Individual Psychological Assessment and Appraisal. The Connecticut school offers three options for the MS in Applied Psychology: a generalist degree, an Industrial-Organizational Psychology concentration and a Community Psychology concentration.

• Hybrid Master’s in Applied Psychology – Community Psychology
• Hybrid Master’s in Applied Psychology – Industrial-Organizational Psychology

SHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

30. Southern New Hampshire University

The concentration options for SNHU’s online psychology master’s program are Child and Adolescent Development Psychology, Forensic Psychology and Industrial Organizational Psychology. This non-licensure program includes courses like Theories of Personality and Ethical Practice in Psychology. You’ll be required to complete your studies with a capstone class.

• Online Master’s in Psychology – Child & Developmental Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Industrial & Organizational Psychology

SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

31. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School, which has campuses around the country, offers a number of online master’s programs for psychology students, including concentrations in International Psychology, Public Health , Child and Adolescent Psychology and Organizational Leadership. Most tracks are non-licensure, but the MA in Forensic Psychology can lead to licensure.

• Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology – Non-Licensure
• Online Master’s in Forensic Psychology – Professional Counselor Licensure
• Online Master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology – Applied Research Project
• Online Master’s in International Psychology – Environmental Advocacy
• Online Master’s in International Psychology – Management and Leadership
• Online Master’s in International Psychology – Trauma and Group Conflict
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Child and Adolescent
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Generalist
• Online Master’s in Psychology – International Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Organizational Leadership
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Public Health
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Social and Community Psychology

The Chicago School is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

32. Touro University Worldwide

From Touro University Worldwide, you can earn an online MA in Psychology with a concentration in Educational Psychology, Media Psychology or Health Psychology. This New York-based school’s non-licensure programs can help equip you with skills for putting your classroom learning about cognition and personality into real-life practice.

• Online Doctor of Psychology in Human & Organizational Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Media Psychology

TUW is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

33. University of Hartford

You can take online or on-campus classes to earn an MS in Organizational Psychology from the University of Hartford in Connecticut. In addition to core classes like Personnel Psychology, you can choose both general psychology and organizational psychology electives. You’ll also be required to complete a capstone project or an internship.

• Online Master’s in Organizational Psychology

UHart is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

34. University of North Dakota

The online no-GRE master’s program from UND includes classes like Behavior Pathology and Diversity Psychology. Earn an MA in Forensic Psychology will give you opportunities to study legal and criminal justice systems. The online class format involves watching recorded lectures, and you can access tutoring and library services.

UND is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since.

35. University of Northern Colorado

You can take online classes from UNC to earn an MA in Educational Psychology with a Teaching Emphasis. Classes include Life Span Developmental Psychology, Brain and Education, Cultural Issues in Education Psychology and Motivation in Education. You’ll be expected to join a cohort and complete a master’s project.

• Online Master’s in Educational Psychology – Teaching Applications

UNC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

36. University of Tennessee – Knoxville

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville’s Vols Online program offers an MS in Educational Psychology. You can choose a concentration in Adult Education or Applied Educational Psychology. This degree program often attracts professionals or those looking for a stepping stone toward a doctorate.

• Online Master’s in Educational Psychology – Adult Education
• Online Master’s in Educational Psychology – Applied Educational Psychology

The University of Tennessee – Knoxville is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

37. University of the Cumberlands

The Baptist roots of the University of the Cumberlands date back to 1888. The university reaches over 10,000 learners each year and has a 17:1 ratio of students to faculty. Hands-on learning is highly valued at this school, and all students are expected to engage in service opportunities while attaining their degrees.

The University of the Cumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

38. Walden University

Over 57,000 students are studying with Walden University at any given time. The faculty members are leaders in their areas of expertise, and almost 90 percent of them hold doctoral degrees. The university’s status as a certified B Corporation shows its commitment to operating ethically and motivating students to be positive change-makers in their communities.

• Online Master’s in Developmental Psychology
• Online Master’s in Industrial and Organizational (I/O) Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Applied Psychology
• Online Master’s in Psychology – Social Psychology

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

39. Western Kentucky University

U.S. News has ranked Western Kentucky University No. 24 in Best Colleges for Veterans and No. 34 in Best Regional Universities South. Both Sierra Club and Princeton Review have applauded this university for its environmental efforts. The school has over 20,000 students, and the average class has around 24 students in it.

Western Kentucky University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

40. William James College

With William James College, you can choose to earn your degree fully online or to report to the school’s Massachusetts campus on select weekends. This program allows you to earn an MA in Organizational Psychology, and you can select an optional concentration in Talent Management.

William James College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

A graduate degree in psychology may help you take your career to the next level. Thanks to the many no-GRE programs that are available, you may be able to get started without delay. Whether you are interested in counseling psychology or another specialty, there may be a no-GRE program that meets your needs.

Psychology Master’s Programs

Click on the field that most interests you to see a list of programs:

• Applied Behavior Analysis
• Forensic Psychology
• General Psychology
• Industrial Organizational Psychology

Psychology Doctoral Programs

Possible specializations outside of a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) include:

• Cognition and Instruction
• Counselor Education
• Educational Psychology
• Marriage and Family Therapy

Master’s in Psychology – Applied Behavior Analysis

Focusing your studies on the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can help you obtain the skills to help people modify their choices and actions. ABA skills can be useful with many populations, including children, the elderly and people with mental illnesses.

This concentration may help to prepare you for the licensure examination that will allow you to become a Board Certified Behavior Analyst; however, at some schools, you may need to take additional classes as well.

Master’s in Counseling

If you want to work one-on-one with people who could use direction and guidance, consider pursuing a career in counseling.

During your studies for a Counseling concentration, you may study individual and group therapies, addictions, tests and assessments, mental health disorders and life coaching. Your school’s program may prepare you for certification as a Licensed Professional Counselor in your state.

You may be able to select a concentration like Trauma Intervention or Health Psychology.

Master’s in Forensic Psychology

A master’s degree with an emphasis in Forensic Psychology can help students develop needed skills in various criminal justice and rehabilitation settings.

You might consider a career in prisons, juvenile homes, schools, rehab centers or courtrooms. The classes that you’ll take may cover mental illnesses, crisis negotiations, correctional systems and communications.

This degree program may prepare you for Licensed Professional Counselor status in your state.

Master’s in Psychology – General

A generalist master’s degree can give you the opportunity to explore many aspects of psychology.

Your studies may cover personality theories, group psychology, human development and mental health. A generalist concentration may allow you to enroll in several different electives so you can tailor your education to your various interests.

This online psychology degree can be useful in fields like human services, education, child development, business leadership, marketing and sales.

Master’s in Industrial Organizational Psychology

For a psychology degree that can help you become a better workplace leader, consider a concentration in Industrial Organizational Psychology.

Students in this concentration study the ways that people think and act in order to become more effective at motivating employees and encouraging exemplary performance. Your classes may cover topics like recruitment, productivity, conflict management and interpersonal relationships.

Many graduates apply their skills in management positions or as leaders in HR departments.

PhD in Psychology – Cognition and Instruction

When you pursue a concentration in Cognition and Instruction, you won’t just have the opportunity to gain a comprehensive education in cognitive psychology.

It can also help you learn how to teach others and effectively motivate learners. You might choose to teach college students or become a business trainer.

In preparation, your classes may cover topics like perception, attention, behavior theory, testing, mental health and social cognition.

PhD in Counseling

As a counseling psychologist, you can help people better their own lives and their interpersonal relationships.

Coursework for a Counseling concentration may encompass family dynamics, lifespan development, diversity and behavioral science. After completing this doctoral degree, you may be eligible to become licensed as a psychologist; your program may need to be licensed by the American Psychological Association.

Some schools require that you hold a master’s degree in this field before you can begin a PhD psychology program .

PhD in Counselor Education

Becoming experienced or licensed in counseling requires that students spend a good deal of time in supervised practice.

Earning a concentration in Counselor Education can help prepare you to be a professional who supervises others. This specialization may also help you earn a faculty position in a university’s psychology program.

In addition to increasing your knowledge about mental health, diagnostic criteria and various treatments, this concentration can also help you learn more about conducting research and teaching others.

PhD in Educational Psychology

If you want to use your psychology skills in academic setting, then a concentration in Educational Psychology may provide invaluable training.

Your doctoral classes will probably cover topics like memory, motivation, test scores, curriculum and organizational leadership. Educational Psychology programs may equip you to work with young students or adult learners.

You may be able to pursue licensure as a School Psychologist after completing this degree.

PhD in Psychology

To learn about many facets of psychology at the doctoral level, you may want to consider pursuing a generalist Ph.D. in this field.

Your studies can help you learn more about topics like psychology theories, client assessments, counseling ethics, behavior science, research and teaching. A general psychology program may offer you a chance to select multiple electives so you can pursue in-depth study in several areas.

A PhD in Psychology will typically also require a dissertation. However, a Doctor of Psychology may not require a dissertation since it’s a professional doctorate.

PhD in Industrial Organizational Psychology

An Industrial Organizational Psychology concentration can help prepare you for leadership positions in nonprofit agencies, corporations and other organizations.

The coursework will likely focus heavily on team leadership, group dynamics and organizational improvement. You may serve an internship with a company’s human resources, training or workplace safety team.

In some schools, this concentration may be known as Business Psychology, or I/O Psychology may be a subset of the Business Psychology program.

PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy

If helping people improve their closest relationships is important to you, then you might be a successful in the field of family therapy.

Pursuing a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy can give you opportunities to study interpersonal relationships, refine your clinical skills, practice writing grants for family supports and conduct research in the field.

With a clinical internship experience, your degree program may prepare you to become a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.

Applying to Psychology Graduate Programs

Although the application process can differ from one university to the next, most schools have a have some common requirements.

You may be required to submit:

• An application — this is often done online
• A personal resume that outlines your professional and volunteer experience
• School transcripts for your undergraduate and graduate degrees
• A letter or essay that states your personal goals and reasons for applying
• Your GRE or other test scores
• Letters of recommendation
• An application fee

When you think of applying to grad school, submitting test scores may be one of the first things that come to mind. However, that’s a less standard requirement than you might think. Some schools do not require any applicants to send in GRE scores for admission to their psychology programs, or they offer waivers.

Prerequisites

To be admitted to a master’s-level program in psychology, you must have earned a bachelor’s degree, such as a psychology bachelors degree online . Some schools stipulate that your undergraduate studies must be in psychology or a related field . Others do not have such a requirement.

Previous educational requirements for a doctorate can vary greatly. Most schools expect you to first hold a master’s degree, but others provide fast psychology degree programs in which you can earn your master’s while on your way to completing your doctorate. Don’t let the length of a doctorate in psychology program deter you away as it is normally an extra year or two and can be very rewarding.

Professional Requirements

Some schools consider only applicants with work experience. The workforce equips students with skills and knowledge beyond what is learned in the classroom, so having held a psychology-related position can help to set grad students up for success.

The exact length of time required can vary greatly among schools, but it’s common for programs to require applicants to have at least a few years of professional experience in the field.

5 Common GRE Waivers

Many universities look at GRE scores during the application process, but they’re willing to make exceptions for students who meet various waiver requirements, such as those listed below. Keep in mind that waivers are granted on a case-by-case basis, so you’ll have to discuss your eligibility with your university’s admissions department.

A strong undergraduate GPA may be enough to exempt you from testing. At some schools, a standard GPA minimum, such as 3.0, applies to all programs. Others set a different standard for each of their grad programs.

2. Professional Experience

If you’ve been working in the field for a certain length of time, some universities believe that is enough to demonstrate your competence and knowledge. Professional certifications may increase the likelihood of an exemption. Military service may also help you earn a waiver.

3. Graduate Degree

The GRE is intended to demonstrate your readiness for graduate-level work. If you have already earned another graduate degree, then it’s clear that you can perform at the post-baccalaureate level. Therefore, the GRE may not be necessary when applying for your second or third graduate program.

4. GMAT or GRE

Some schools want to receive test scores from you, but they may be flexible about which ones. The GMAT is an exam that is typically used for admission to business school. If you’ve taken the GMAT but not the GRE, you may be able to send your GMAT results in place of GRE scores.

5. No GRE Required for Specific Graduate Programs

Often, a school’s admissions requirements are different for each department. Just because GRE scores are mandatory for some programs, that doesn’t mean that every department will insist on them. Before sending in your application for grad school, look into the psychology department’s specific requirements.

What is the GRE?

The GRE, officially titled the Graduate Record Examination, is a rigorous test that some schools rely on as a measure of your readiness for grad school. The test covers topics like vocabulary, mathematics, reasoning and critical thinking.

If you take the GRE, you’ll receive three different scores. These three scores reflect the results of your:

• Two Verbal Reasoning sections
• Two Quantitative Reasoning sections
• One Analytical Writing section

What is a GRE Waiver?

Even if a school lists GRE scores as one of its requirements for admission to grad school, there’s a chance that you’ll be able to send in your application without them. If you meet other criteria, the school may be willing to assess your suitability for their graduate programs without GRE requirements .

Waivers may be granted for:

• Work history
• High undergraduate GPA
• Prior graduate degrees

The requirements vary among schools, so yours might grant other exceptions as well.

Is the GRE Exam Required for Graduate School?

For years, the GRE was considered the gold standard for grad school admissions. These days, more and more universities are opting not to require GRE scores as part of the application package. The same is true with psychology master’s programs not requiring the GRE .

The trend away from GRE testing is based on a mix of factors:

• Testing requirements may reduce schools’ diversity
• Exams don’t always predict grad school success
• Other criteria can do a better job of showing whether students are a good fit for a program

What master’s programs don’t require the GRE?

Each university sets its own admissions requirements, so there isn’t a set list of masters programs that don’t require the GRE . Because there has been a growing movement away from mandatory GRE testing in recent years, there’s a good chance that you will be able to find at least a few no-GRE universities that offer your desired master’s program.

Whether you are interested in psychology or another field, getting into grad school without the GRE may be possible.

What PhD programs do not require GRE?

There are many fields in which you can earn a doctoral degree without ever sitting for the GRE. Each university or doctoral program makes its own decisions about whether GRE scores are an essential part of the application process. From theology to psychology to mathematics, you may be able to find no-GRE doctoral programs that appeal to your interests.

To learn more about whether your top programs require GRE scores, contact the schools’ admission departments.

Does every graduate school require GRE?

No, only some graduate schools ask applicants to submit GRE scores with their applications for master’s or doctoral programs. Business schools often rely on the GMAT, and there are many schools that require no test scores at all.

Instead, they evaluate applicants based on other criteria, such as school transcripts and personal essays.

Is the GRE required for a PhD?

No, many successful doctoral students have earned their degrees without ever taking the GRE. If you are interested in a doctorate but don’t want to spend time or money on test preparation, you may be able to find programs that don’t require GRE scores as part of the application process.

Best MBA Programs for 2024 – No GMAT/GRE Required

MBA programs can be the key to boosting your career and amplifying your earning potential. In fact, half of the business schools that participated in Fortune’s Best MBA ranking in 2022 reported median salaries of $110,000 or more. However, preparing for the standardized tests required by some MBA programs can be expensive and time-consuming. Using data from our best MBA programs ranking, Fortune has compiled a list of the best MBA programs that do not require the GMAT or GRE. This list serves as a tool for those looking for degree program options that do not require submission of test scores to apply. This ranking was last updated March 2023.

The Online MBA From Syracuse University

UNC Kenan-Flagler’s top-ranked online MBA

1. University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)

• ACCEPTANCE RATE
• AVERAGE GMAT
• GMAT REQUIREMENT
• MEDIAN BASE SALARY OF NEW GRADS

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Sloan)

3. New York University (Stern)

Harvard Business Analytics Program

4. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor (Ross)

5. duke university (fuqua).

6. Cornell University (Johnson)

7. Dartmouth College (Tuck)

8. University of California–Los Angeles (Anderson)

UC Davis Master of Management

9. University of Washington (Foster)

10. Georgia Institute of Technology (Scheller)

11. University of Rochester (Simon)

12. Michigan State University (Broad)

13. University of Florida (Warrington)

Maryville University Master of Science in Data Science | Online

14. Fordham University (Gabelli)

15. University of Maryland–College Park (Smith)

16. Southern Methodist University (Cox)

17. William & Mary

18. CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College (Zicklin)

The online mba from rice business.

19. Babson College (Olin)

20. University of Pittsburgh (Katz)

21. American University (Kogod)

22. university of massachusetts–amherst (isenberg).

23. University of Denver (Daniels)

24. University of San Diego (Knauss)

25. Syracuse University (Whitman)

26. Hult International Business School

27. bentley university.

28. Morgan State University (Graves)

29. University of Cincinnati (Lindner)

30. Lindenwood University

31. college of charleston.

32. John Carroll University (Boler)

33. kent state university, 34. xavier university, why many mba programs no longer require the gmat or gre.

Good news for professionals looking to apply for MBA programs—more and more top MBA programs are loosening their testing requirements .

Professionals who think their experience speaks to their management competency and would like to skip tests altogether might be happy to hear that many full-time MBA programs no longer require any test scores to be submitted at all.

The top-ranked schools are an indication of a broader trend in MBA admissions policies, a trend that started before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic but was expedited in the past two years, according to Esther Magna, a principal MBA admissions consultant at Stacy Blackman , an MBA admissions consulting company. Top schools want to ensure diversity in their incoming cohorts—diversity of both personal and professional backgrounds—and maintaining a GMAT requirement somewhat limits the types of students who apply, Magna adds.