Pacifica Graduate Institute - Carpinteria, California

Zachary M.

The Pacifica Graduate Institute is a singular entity when it comes to engaging scholastic tradition while pushing academics forward into the new paradigm. Even among various other private universities I have been lucky enough to study, research, or teach at, there is an alive, vibrant quality at the Pacifica Graduate Institute that seems to be revealed to each lucky enough to visit the land. Perhaps, in an era when our lives are splintered and disjointed, places and the unique beings that participate in the manifestations of such a place provide solace, encouragement, while at the same time tending the flame of memory and the spark of inspiration...

Alexis G.

I recently completed the MA Counseling Program and I am so happy I chose Pacifica. It was a deep and transformative experience and I feel well-prepared to start my career as as a psychotherapist. I did not know much about depth psychology or psychodynamic psychotherapy when I started, but two years later I was writing a thesis and deeply invested in the theoretical orientations and qualitative research questions I had the freedom and faculty guidance to explore. If you are philosophical, empathetic, free-thinking, and prefer insight-oriented therapy that looks at the roots of suffering over therapy that is focused solely on symptom remission, this is a good place to seek training. Talk to alumni or current students to get an idea about whether the school is a good fit for you!

Melody J.

I loved my experience at Pacifica Graduate Institute! I completed my Ph.D. in Mythological Studies there in 2003. The campus in Carpinteria is so beautiful, soulful and peaceful. I loved it. The whole program opened my sights up to aspects of the world I had never thought about. I also like the structure of the program of going away for three days a month for intensive classes and then working and studying on my own. Very conducive to continuing a full-time business. I got this degree to deepen my interest in studying the humanities. I also analyze screenplays and coach on developing them, so it specifically gave me a deeper perspective there. I loved the program overall.

Barie W.

I have recently completed my MA in Engaged Humanities and the Creative Life with an Emphasis in Depth Psychology. This program and Pacifica Graduate Institute completely changed my life personally as well as academically. The coursework was rigorous and thoughtful and the accompanying creative work which was used to enhance the depth psychological teachings were unlike anything I could have experienced at any other college. The limited residency offering in this program was perfect for someone like myself and I was able to complete the program within two years while also working full-time and living in two different states. The faculty at Pacifica were amazing! And when the students had issues (which was hardly ever) it was taken care of by our Program Chair, Susan Rowland, immediately. If there is one main reason to come to Pacifica for the Humanities program, it would be to learn from Susan. She is a well respected Jungian Scholar and her knowledge of research through creative practice is unparalleled. Never would I have imaged that I could write a research paper and submit it for conferences-but with the help and guidance of Susan, it was an actual possibility. I am forever grateful to have come to Pacifica when I did to experience learning with my cohort both online and at residential.

Prior to coming to Pacifica I received an undergraduate degree in organizational communication which focused on marketing and PR. I am currently working in nonprofit arts administration and the time spent on my MA has greatly influenced my professional work. Attending Pacifica helped me to grow as a person and in turn I have advanced in my work, and I am happy to share my knowledge of depth psychology with my fellow nonprofit workers.

Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to Pacifica for recognizing students that have done national service and service abroad. Pacifica offers scholarships to alumni of both the AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps.

C C.

The Clinical Program is a diploma mill filled with scam artists who will find clever ways to deplete your student aid before you're able to complete the program. Also, all of the fascinating and worthwhile instructors have retired and were replaced by incompetent "professors" some of whom have lost their license for dating their clients or having excessive DUIs! Be sure to Google Pacifica lawsuit for some additional insights into the unethical practices at this "Institute"

C D.

Every time another political event happens they send out an email with the left most stance. They do not care about individuality in opposition to what they are teaching. Critical theory and praxis have been mandated since their last accreditation requirements.

Amber R.

This is THE place to feel at home while studying mythology! But bring your own food!

Russell R. (.