The Adler Graduate School (AGS) is a private institution located in Richfield, Minnesota. It was founded in 1967 and is dedicated to training mental health professionals who can help individuals and communities achieve their full potential. As with any educational institution, there are both pros and cons to consider before deciding if AGS is the right fit for you.
Pros:
- Focus on Adlerian Psychology: AGS is rooted in the teachings of Alfred Adler, a pioneer in the field of psychotherapy who emphasized the importance of social interest and community engagement in achieving mental health. This can be a pro for students who are interested in Adlerian psychology and who want to learn about the theoretical foundations of this approach.
- Emphasis on Experiential Learning: AGS places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, which allows students to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world settings. This can be a pro for students who want to gain practical experience in the field of mental health and who want to be prepared for their future careers.
- Small Class Sizes: AGS has small class sizes, which allow for more personalized attention from faculty members and a closer sense of community among students. This can be a pro for students who prefer a more intimate learning environment and who want to feel supported throughout their education.
- Variety of Programs: AGS offers a variety of graduate programs, including master’s degrees in counseling and psychotherapy, and a doctorate in art therapy. This can be a pro for students who have specific career goals that require a specialized degree.
- Accreditation: AGS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which ensures that the education students receive is of a high quality and that the degrees they earn will be recognized by other institutions and employers.
Cons:
- Limited Diversity: AGS has a relatively homogenous student body, with a majority of students coming from Minnesota and other Midwestern states. This can be a con for students who want to interact with people from different backgrounds or who value a multicultural education.
- Limited Research Opportunities: AGS is primarily a teaching institution, which means that there may be limited opportunities for students to engage in research or to work on projects with faculty members. This can be a con for students who are interested in pursuing research careers or who want to develop research skills.
- Limited Campus Resources: AGS has a small campus and limited resources compared to larger universities. This can be a con for students who want access to state-of-the-art facilities and technology, or who are seeking a vibrant campus life.
- Limited Career Services: AGS does not have a dedicated career services office, which can make it difficult for students to connect with potential employers or to receive guidance on their career paths.
- Location: While AGS’s location in Richfield, Minnesota may be convenient for students in the Twin Cities area, it may be a con for students who live further away or who prefer to live in urban or suburban areas.
In conclusion, the Adler Graduate School offers a unique education in Adlerian psychology with a focus on experiential learning. However, its limited diversity, research opportunities, and campus resources may not be the right fit for every student. Prospective students should carefully consider their academic and career goals, as well as their personal preferences, before deciding if AGS is the right fit for them.
