Once the application deadline (February 1) has passed, all application files are reviewed. Scoring guides help determine points for experience, GPA, prerequisite courses, etc. In March selected applicants come to PSU for a scheduled interview. Again, scoring guides assist in determining an overall profile for each applicant. Decisions on departmental admission are typically made in April or very early May, so students can register for summer courses if necessary.

The Department recommends applicants for admission to the University. At that point the University Office of Admissions reviews student transcripts to make sure they meet the GPA requirement and determines their admission status. In other words, students need to be admitted both to the program and to the University. University admission requires the department's recommendation for admission to the program. Admitted students must begin during the term for which they were admitted or their admission will be cancelled.