How to Get Into The Chicago School at San Diego

The Chicago School at San Diego operates as a small graduate campus focused on psychology and related fields, with most programs requiring specific prerequisite coursework before you can apply. You'll need to submit transcripts, personal statements, and letters of recommendation through the school's online application portal, with rolling admissions throughout the year for most programs.

Clinical psychology programs require the most preparation, as you'll need undergraduate psychology coursework including statistics, research methods, and core psychology courses. The school expects you to complete any missing prerequisites before starting your graduate program, which can add time to your academic timeline.

San Diego campus students take classes in a downtown location near the Gaslamp Quarter, but the school doesn't offer traditional residence halls. You'll need to find your own housing in the San Diego area, which can be expensive. Start your housing search early and consider neighborhoods like Hillcrest, North Park, or areas with trolley access to downtown.

The small campus size means you'll work closely with faculty and have access to practicum sites throughout San Diego County. New student orientation covers clinical training requirements, licensing pathways, and connections to local mental health organizations where you'll complete field experience hours.

Submit your application well before your intended start date, as clinical programs may have specific cohort start times. Financial aid processing can take several weeks, so complete your FAFSA early and explore graduate assistantship opportunities that might help offset tuition costs.