B.S. and M.S. in 4 years

The most obvious advantage of the program is the ability to pursue both a master's and a bachelor's degree in 4 years, allowing you to enter the workforce or advanced education with a substantial body of experience.  Because time is money, being able to condense classes and test out of introductory psychology can result in substantial savings. 

Flexibility

Perhaps the greatest advantage of the program is flexibility.  Just because you take classes at a faster rate does not mean that you cannot develop a speciality.  The program is constructed to allow you to pursue classes outside your major, to develop a minor or second major, and take whatever steps are necessary to advance your abilities.  If you start the program and decide after a year that it is not for you, then most of your hours will transfer to other programs without penalty.

Faculty Mentor

An underlying strength of the APCT program is the addition of faculty mentors for each incoming class of APCT students.  The mentor becomes an integral part of the APCT cohort, teaching all three of the seminars, advising students about scheduling, and generally being available for questions and concerns throughout the individual's stay at ACU. 

Research and Service

The students of the APCT have engaged in numerous research and service opportunities both as a part of the program and as independent pursuits.

Recent research conducted by the APCT includes presentations at a regional convention on the development of an international internship, the role marital, spiritual, and financial factors on folk conception of well being, and various attributes affecting attachment to God.

Various service opportunities taken by the APCTmembers include employment in daycare for medically fragile children, student support services, tutoring, mentoring children through local organizations, and community work with elderly people.

Other Experiences

In addition, your education will be enriched by one-on-one involvement with a faculty mentor, research opportunities, international internships, and taking classes with a cohort.  Furthermore, being an APCT member does not mean that you lose out on your college experience.  Members of the program are a part of social clubs, engage in student government, and are actively involved in area congregations.