This is a social science research program designed to train researchers to conduct cutting-edge investigation to reduce the national and global burden of substance use and misuse. Note that this is not a counseling-focused degree.
Requirements:
MA degree in related field
Minimum grade point average of 3.2 (undergraduate) and 3.5 (graduate)
Foundational research experience (e.g., peer reviewed publication and graduate level recommended research courses.)
TOEFL: English proficiency test scores (if applicable)
Candidate personal statement (rationale for being in the program; clear vision of degree objectives, what they expect to do with the degree)
Strength of research training background
Evidence of statistical training
Dissemination and/or publications
Letters of Recommendation (3)
Writing sample (solid scholarly writing related to substance use, note if first author on manuscript, submitted or published).
PLEASE NOTE: As of 2020, GRE scores are no longer required for our program.
Admission Review Criteria
Once the completed applications are received by the program, they are shared with the JDP IRSU Admissions Review Committee (faculty representatives from both SDSU and UCSD), who apply the following criteria to review each application.
Grade Point Average - minimum GPA 3.2 (undergraduate) and 3.5 (graduate)
Personal Statement - rationale for being in the program, clear vision of career objectives, what the applicant plans to do with the degree
Strength of research and statistics training background
Demonstrated strength of scientific writing
Demonstration of abstracts presented, publications or other participation in dissemination of science
