Admissions Essay Instructions
Formatting
Please write/save all essays in Microsoft Word Format. They can either be uploaded through your online application or emailed to admissions@socalsem.edu
All essays should be written in 12-point, Times New Roman font with 1” margins, double-spaced, with the essay “title” centered at the top of the first page.
For identification purposes please make sure your document(s) are dated, and include your name, email address and phone number at the top right-hand portion of the document, as illustrated below:
Download an MS Word Essay Template
Download and use the template below to simplify your essay writing layout. But be sure to follow the instructions above for the specific content required by each degree program.
Undergraduate and Graduate Bible Instructions (AACM, BABS, MACM, MABS, MAIS, MASR, MACC, MAPA, MDiv and Th.M)
Write a single essay of 500-600 words in length, communicating your salvation experience, testimony and what you believe God has in mind for you at Southern California Seminary.
Post-Graduate Bible (DMin)
Write two essays, saving them as one document. The 2-essays would include:
- The essay as described above.
- Scope of Ministry A 1,000-1,200 words in length, describing the scope of your ministry experience, up to and including the work in which you are currently serving.
Graduate and Post-Graduate Behavioral Science (MACP, MAMFT and PsyD)
Write two essays, saving them as one document. The 2-essays would include:
- Biography and Salvation Experience (for all applicants) Compose a 400-600 word essay about how and when you became a Christian. Also include any Christian ministry(s) you have been involved with, and any leadership roles you have held. We are also interested in your assessment of your strengths and weaknesses, interpersonal relationships, and any other relevant information you wish us to consider in the application process.
- Reasons for Pursuing Graduate Studies in Psychology
- For MACP/MAMFT applicants: Please compose a 600-800 word essay presenting your reasons for pursuing the MACP/MAMFT program. Discuss any psychology background you may have, and your motivations for becoming a counselor. Also discuss any post-graduation plans you have.
- For PsyD applicants: Compose a 1,000-1,200 word essay presenting your reasons for pursuing a Doctorate in Psychology. Include clinical background, and your counseling philosophy. We are interested about your vocational background, clinical experiences, as well as your theoretical orientation. Also discuss any post-graduation plans you have.
In addition, for PsyD applicants: Submit a substantial, graded writing sample from your Master’s program