Adler University

About Adler University

Adler University takes a distinctive approach to graduate education, centering its mission on social justice and the belief that psychological and community well-being are interconnected. Founded in 1952 and named after pioneering psychiatrist Alfred Adler, the university operates campuses in Chicago and Vancouver, training the next generation of psychologists, counselors, and social change agents. Unlike traditional psychology programs that focus primarily on individual therapy, Adler emphasizes the social contexts that shape mental health and community wellness. The Chicago campus sits in the heart of the city's historic Loop district, placing students in one of the nation's largest urban laboratories for studying human behavior and community dynamics. With approximately 1,800 students across both locations, Adler maintains a focused community where graduate students can form meaningful connections with faculty mentors and fellow practitioners. The university's relatively small size allows for personalized attention that larger institutions simply cannot match. Adler's commitment to social responsibility extends beyond rhetoric into required practice. Every student completes a Social Justice Practicum, spending 200 hours working directly with underserved communities before graduation. This hands-on experience helps students understand how factors like poverty, discrimination, and lack of access to resources affect psychological wellbeing, preparing them to serve populations often overlooked by traditional mental health systems.

Adler University admits students who demonstrate not only academic capability but also genuine commitment to social justice and community service. Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, though the field of study matters less than the strength of the overall application. Many successful applicants come from psychology backgrounds, but the university also welcomes career changers from fields like education, social work, and business. The application requires transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume highlighting relevant experience. For doctoral programs, interviews are a standard part of the process, giving the admissions committee a chance to assess interpersonal skills and fit with the program's values. Master's programs may not require interviews but evaluate applications carefully for evidence of maturity, self-awareness, and passion for helping others. Adler looks for applicants who have already demonstrated service to their communities, whether through volunteer work, professional experience, or personal advocacy. The personal statement should articulate why the applicant wants to pursue a career in psychology or counseling and how Adler's social justice focus aligns with their goals. International students are welcome and should contact the admissions office regarding specific requirements for their citizenship status.

Adler University specializes in graduate programs within psychology, counseling, and related fields, offering doctoral and master's degrees designed for students ready to make meaningful contributions to mental health and social change. The Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology program trains students to become licensed clinical psychologists, combining rigorous academic coursework with extensive supervised clinical experience. Students work with real clients from their first year, building practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. The Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and its various specializations prepare students for licensure as professional counselors. Specializations include Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, and Rehabilitation Counseling, allowing students to focus their training on specific populations and settings. The Counseling and Art Therapy programs attract creative students who want to use artistic expression as a therapeutic tool. For those interested in organizational and leadership applications, Adler offers an Industrial and Organizational Psychology program that prepares graduates to improve workplace dynamics and employee wellbeing. The university also provides certificates and continuing education for practicing professionals looking to expand their skills or add specializations. All programs incorporate Adler's founding principles of community feeling and social interest, teaching students to consider the broader social systems affecting their clients' lives.

Key Highlights

• Private non-profit institution with strong academic tradition
• Located in a major metropolitan area with excellent opportunities
• Research-intensive with extensive graduate programs
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Graduate school at Adler University differs from the typical undergraduate experience, with most students juggling coursework alongside jobs, families, and other responsibilities. The university recognizes these realities and structures its programs accordingly, offering evening and weekend classes that accommodate working professionals. Many students form study groups that meet between classes, building friendships that often continue well beyond graduation. The Chicago campus occupies a modern facility in the Loop, surrounded by the energy and opportunities of downtown Chicago. Between classes, students grab lunch at nearby eateries, study in campus common areas, or explore the cultural attractions steps away. The location provides easy access to clinical placement sites throughout the metropolitan area, from community mental health centers to hospitals and schools. Student organizations focus primarily on professional development and social justice initiatives, reflecting Adler's mission. Groups organize workshops, community service projects, and networking events that connect current students with practicing professionals. The annual Social Justice Summit brings together students, faculty, and community leaders to address pressing issues affecting mental health and community wellbeing. While the graduate school experience differs from residential undergraduate life, Adler students form close bonds through shared clinical experiences and collaborative projects.

Location & Surroundings

Chicago provides an ideal setting for Adler University's mission of training socially responsible mental health professionals. The city's neighborhoods represent the full spectrum of American urban life, from wealthy lakefront areas to communities struggling with poverty, violence, and limited resources. Students gain exposure to this diversity through their clinical placements, learning to work effectively with clients from all backgrounds. The downtown campus sits in the Loop, Chicago's central business district, easily accessible by the CTA train and bus lines that crisscross the city. Millennium Park, the Art Institute, and countless restaurants lie within walking distance. After evening classes, students can catch a late dinner or unwind at one of the many venues nearby. For those driving, the campus offers parking options, though most students find public transit more convenient. Beyond downtown, Chicago offers neighborhoods with distinct personalities, from the arts scene in Pilsen to the historic architecture of Hyde Park. Students often live in various parts of the city, commuting to campus for classes and traveling to placements scattered throughout the metropolitan area. The Vancouver campus provides similar urban advantages for students in the Pacific Northwest, with access to Canada's thriving mental health sector and the natural beauty of British Columbia.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Graduate education at Adler University represents a significant investment, with tuition costs varying by program and campus location. The university provides financial aid information sessions and individual counseling to help prospective students understand their options. Federal student loans are available for eligible students, and some employers offer tuition assistance for employees pursuing graduate degrees in relevant fields. Adler offers limited institutional scholarships, including awards recognizing academic achievement and commitment to social justice. Students should complete the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal aid and research external scholarships available for psychology and counseling students. Many students work part-time during their studies, with some positions on campus or at clinical sites providing both income and relevant experience. Career outcomes for Adler graduates reflect the practical nature of the programs. Psy.D. graduates pursue licensure as clinical psychologists, working in hospitals, private practice, community mental health centers, and academic settings. Master's degree holders become licensed counselors, therapists, and specialists in their chosen areas. The university's alumni network provides mentorship and job leads, while the career services office assists with resume preparation, job searches, and professional development. Adler's emphasis on practical training means graduates typically enter the workforce ready to practice, having accumulated significant supervised clinical hours during their programs.