Pacifica Graduate Institute Reviews

"PGI is definitely not for the faint of heart, or someone is not a self-starter. The curriculum is intellectually rigorous and the work demanding. The curriculum does lean a bit too much toward "Classical" Western culture for a Religious Studies program (there are more varieties of religion and myth than those originating in the IE continuum). However, during the years I attended, they did make a very real attempt at diversifying into Asian, African, and North/South American Native beliefs, so the curriculum is definitely a work in progress (My specialization was in East Asian religion). Academically, I have absolutely no quarrel with PGI -- The Professors are top-notch and are always available to help, and the degree program is one of the few of its kind. My only real complaint is the lack of substantial career services. Most universities have career counseling and some sort of placement services. Pacifica has nothing of the sort that I've been able to find. Otherwise, PGI was a real adventure.Read Less"

"I made the mistake of attending this program and not listening to the poor review I had read about it. The result has been disastrous to my career. The program is run by a clique of so called psychological professionals who cover each other's backs when one or another are being less than honest. When I entered there were four of us who had disability issues and the school never had a disability office. If you ask for your needs to be met at this place you are seen as a troublemaker very scary. Do not go here if you want a real Clinical Psychologist job or internship. This program does not qualify for APA internships If all you want are classes to add to a real degree from another institution than this place is ok. The place lacks integrity on many levels. Steer clear.Read Less"

"PGI is an edu for curious learners who are capable of keeping up w/ demanding scholarship/motivated to master complex theories / write papers w/ original ideas while engaging in personal therapy. Inquire with successful grads if you're on the fence or unsure you want this kind of education. This is an exceptional learning environment for mature personalities who can take responsibility for a graduate degree of this magnitude."

"Pacifica is a unique experience. Having earned 2-undergraduate degrees from the University of Pittsburgh, i can adamantly state that Pacifica is the opposite of that experience. I agree with what others have stated in their reviews, but I would add that what youre paying for in the higher cost for a similar degree is the unique experience that binds life-long friendships, as you move through the program in the same cohort."

"I am very satisfied with the school. It is taught from a depth perspective which is unique and allows you to stand out. We meet 4 days per month with helps maintain full employment if needed. It's a cohort experience so you are with the same people throughout the program which provides great support. I am pleased with what the school offers. The instructors come from different backgrounds and give good views on practice.. we eat together breakfast lunch and dinner creating a bond with students and faculty. Food and hotel is included in tuition. I would recommend this school to those that want to conduct therapy from a person centered approach with a spiritual eye. This program teaches you how to integrate the shadow and unconscious into practice. Very interesting.Read Less"

"Pacifica Graduate Institute offers one of a kind graduate program for working adults. You're on campus once a month for four days of classes, very intense; you are then sent home with lots of reading and homework. I have found you must be organized with your time. That said if you do the readings and the homework, getting your doctorate degree is an attainable goal. There are many adults with varied backgrounds, some out of retirement, some just had their last kid leave the nest for college and others are right out of a Master Program. These different adults from as far as Seattle, Texas, Canada, Japan and all over California, ranging from 24 years old to 59 years old in my class come together once a month to change themselves and therefore changing the world. Pacifica wants to make a difference in the world; if you do, this is the perfect place for your self-growth, learning and an advanced degree. Pacifica specializes in depth studies, whether it is in the humanities and mythology masters program, dream tending workshops or their Clinical Psychology PhD and Psy. D. Programs. The professors are open and easy to talk to during and after class. Classes tend to be on the smaller side 14-26 students. The campus is magical, an old 1920 Spanish estate turned into a campus for learning. Food and lodging are included in most programs as everyone is traveling in from abroad this adds to the quality time you get to spend getting to know the faculty and your fellow cohorts. I recommend Pacifica highly, especially to those that want a unique transformative experience.Read Less"

"Pacifica Graduate Institute is the most amazing place to be! The environment invokes an inner love and desire for life that sprouts from within and that appears to be spread throughout the campus, faculty, staff and other cohorts. It has been well worth the money. There is a willingness to nurture a path of a depth psychological nature and an atmosphere that is conducive to individuation. I feel so blessed to be a part of something so powerful and accepting of all various types of people from around the globe.Read Less"

"Pacifica Graduate Institute offers a unique learning environment for students who oppose the standard daily grind. The set-up of classes, attending one time/month and doing the rest on one's own, challenges one's ability to manage one's own time. But if you are a go-getter, it may be the perfect set-up for you. I myself have really enjoyed it. The quality of instruction is high and most of the courses offer a sense of creativity. Discussions can be intriguing and there is a lot of room for personal growth and development, as well as the development of one's career. Rather than exams, the emphasis is on writing papers. There is some diversity on campus but I think the cost of the school limits it immensely. I would get clear on how you are going to afford it, before making such a big commitment. I have not graduated yet so I am unsure how the value of the degree will play out in my future, but its definitely worth considering other possibilities before diving in to something so financially expensive. At the same time, it is a really soul nourishing program and that's not cheap.Read Less"