graduate Application Personal Information Legal First Name Middle Name(s) Date of Birth Social Security Number (SSN) Are you a U.S. citizen? * Yes No Do you hold permanent resident status? (I-551) N/A Yes No Do you hold a valid student visa? (F-1) N/A Yes No Do you have an alien identification number? N/A Yes No Have you ever been convicted of a felony? * Yes No Legal Last Name Preferred Name(s) Gender * Female Male Other Confirm SSN If no, what country are you a citizen of? If yes, when was it issued? If yes, what is your visa number? If yes, what is your A-number? If yes, provide an explanation. Contact Information Email Primary Phone Number Confirm Email Alternate Phone Number *Note: DO NOT autofill your addresses. It will not submit properly and you will have to resubmit your application. Permanent Street Address State Mailing Street Address State City Zip Code City Zip Code Emergency Contact Information Emergency Contact First Name Relationship to student Emergency Contact Primary Phone Number Emergency Contact Last Name Emergency Contact Email Emergency Contact Alternate Phone Number Demographic Information Hispanic or Latin American descent? * Yes No Unsure Prefer not to say First generation college student? * Yes No Unsure Prefer not to say List all races you identify with. Options: American Indian or Alaska Native Asian Black or African American Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander White Prefer not to say Student Intentions Classification You are applying as a... If other, please explain. Residency Status How will you attend class? Start Term What term do you want to begin classes? Degree/Program Leave blank if undecided Are you seeking teacher licensure? * Yes No Have you been recruited for athletics? * Yes No If yes, which team? Will you be applying for/using financial aid? * Yes No Undergraduate Education Degrees granted Date on diploma Institution Name *Note: DO NOT autofill your school address. It will not submit properly and you will have to resubmit your application. Institution Street Address City State Zip Code Graduate Education Have you taken graduate courses? * Yes No If yes, at what college(s)? (List all) List any degrees granted Currently on academic probation/suspension? * Yes No Have you ever been dismissed from a college? * Yes No If yes, provide an explanation. How did you learn about USW? *REQUIRED* I agree that University of the Southwest may contact me about educational services by phone, email, and text message at the contact information provided. Message & data rates may apply. Check to opt out of text messaging. (Phone contact is still required for communicating sensitive information.) *REQUIRED* I understand that USW is collecting personal information data that will be protected and used according to its Privacy Policy. Access Privacy Policy Submit An error occurred. Check that all required fields have been completed.

Clinical Mental Health Counseling MS Back The Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program offers a 60-hour fully online program that prepares students to work in human service settings. The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) and is designed to meet, and in some instances exceed, professional licensing requirements in many states. It is the individual student’s responsibility to determine the licensure requirements for their own state. Mission Statement: The faculty of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) graduate program at University of the Southwest (USW) is committed to the education and training of professional, competent mental health counselors who are dedicated to the ideals of servant leadership, diversity, and social justice. PLOs: PLO 1: Counseling Orientation and Professional Practice - Understand the history, philosophy, and ethics of the counseling profession and become active members in professional counseling organizations. PLO 2: Social and Cultural Diversity - Apply and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and practices to counsel and advocate for individuals, families, and groups through culturally appropriate practice promoting social justice, equity, and access. PLO 3: Human Growth and Development - Understand the importance of individual and family development across the lifespan and how this affects functioning and behavior. PLO 4: Career Development - Understand the interrelationship between work and mental well-being and strategies for individual career development. PLO 5: Counseling and Helping Relationships - Employ culturally appropriate practice in the education, prevention, evaluation, and treatment of mental and emotional disorders. PLO 6: Group Counseling and Group Work - Understand the foundations, approaches, and strategies to working effectively with clients in groups. PLO 7: Assessment and Testing - Identify and implement appropriate and holistic clinical evaluation and assessment of normal and abnormal development and behavior, including the treatment of trauma and addictions. PLO 8: Research and Program Evaluation - Utilize mental health research and evidenced-based treatments and apply models of program process and outcome evaluation to professional practice. PLO 9: CMHC Specialty Area - Understand and apply a broad range of mental health techniques and interventions for the prevention and treatment of mental health concerns. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Program Handbook Previous Next Fieldwork Handbook Licensure Disclosures

GRADUATE PROGRAMS DBA EdD MBA MS MSE Doctor of Business Administration Doctor of Education Master of Business Administration Master of Science Master of Science in Education Filter by Degree Type Select Degree Type -- Alternative Teaching Licensure Program (Early Childhood Education) Learn More -- Alternative Teaching Licensure Program (Elementary Education) Learn More -- Alternative Teaching Licensure Program (K-12) Learn More -- Alternative Teaching Licensure Program (Secondary Education) Learn More -- Alternative Teaching Licensure Program (Special Education) Learn More DBA Data Analytics Learn More DBA Healthcare Administration Learn More DBA Leadership & Organizational Development Learn More DBA Self-Design Learn More DBA Strategy & Innovation Learn More EdD Educational Leadership Learn More EdD Educational Psychology Learn More EdD Higher Education Administration Learn More EdD PK-12 Administration Learn More EdD STEM Education Learn More EdD Self-Design Learn More EdD Special Education Learn More MBA Accounting Learn More MBA Executive Track Learn More MBA Finance Learn More MBA Healthcare Administration Learn More MBA Human Resource Management Learn More MBA Marketing Learn More MBA Self-Design Learn More MBA Sport Management & Recreation Learn More MBA Strategic Management Learn More MS Biology (Forensics) Learn More MS Biology (Genetics) Learn More MS Clinical Mental Health Counseling Learn More MS Kinesiology Learn More MS Medical Sciences Learn More MS Psychology Learn More MS Sports Psychology Learn More MSE Educational Diagnostics (Licensure) Learn More MSE Educational Leadership (Non-Licensure) Learn More MSE Educational Leadership (Principal Licensure) Learn More MSE School Counseling (Licensure) Learn More MSE Self-Design (Non-Licensure) Learn More MSE Special Education (Non-Licensure) Learn More MSE Teaching & Learning (Non-Licensure) Learn More

< Back A Case for Divine Sonship: Jesus as ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ in John 8:42 Kevin Waldrop Department Chair of Christian Studies, University of the Southwest E-mail: kwaldrop@usw.edu Abstract A prominent theme in the Gospel of John is the Father-Son relationship. Jesus is clearly presented by John as the Son of God. Evangelical interpreters also affirm that the deity of Jesus is taught in John’s Gospel. There has been some debate among interpreters concerning whether or not Jesus’ sonship in the Gospel directly contributes to the understanding of his deity, and if so, how. This article seeks to present a case for divine sonship in Jesus’ language in John 8:42, particularly Jesus’ claim : “I came from God” (ἐκ τοῦ θεοῦ ἐξῆλθον). The evidence presented will include linguistic analysis (e.g., patterns in John’s word choices, word meanings, combinations of prepositions and verbs, etc.), contextual analysis, and theological parallels in John’s writings. DOI: https://doi.org/10.62548/SJAS23030102 Publication Details: Southwest Journal of Arts & Sciences, 2023, 3(1): 9-12 Article Views: 61 Read Full Text Previous Next

Finance MBA Back The Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Finance program is designed for individuals seeking their CFP certification, securities license, and/or a career in the financial services sector. The program includes the practical application of financial concepts, methodologies, and techniques aimed at providing students with a competitive advantage in a dynamic career field. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Previous Next

STEM Education EdD Back The Doctor of Education (EdD) in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) Education program is designed for STEM educators who seek to enhance their knowledge related to STEM education and engage in/learn about research related to STEM teaching and learning. Individuals who work in STEM fields in higher education may also find the program of value. Graduates of the program can assume positions as university faculty, instructional leaders in the public schools, curriculum development specialists, and assessment specialists. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Tuition Details Previous Next

Federal Loans Back Previous Next Direct PLUS Loans 1. Purpose and Eligibility: Direct PLUS Loans, also known as Parent PLUS Loans and Graduate/Professional PLUS Loans, are federal loans offered through the U.S. Department of Education. These loans are designed to provide financial assistance to: Parents of dependent undergraduate students (Parent PLUS Loans) Graduate and professional students (Graduate/Professional PLUS Loans) PLUS Loans are credit-based, and eligibility depends on the borrower's creditworthiness. Borrowers must not have an adverse credit history to qualify. If they do, they may still be eligible with an endorser (co-signer) or by demonstrating extenuating circumstances. 2. Interest Rates: Direct PLUS Loans have fixed interest rates that are determined by Congress and can vary from year to year. These rates are generally higher than those for other federal student loans, such as Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans. Borrowers can check the Federal Student Aid website or contact their loan servicer for the most up-to-date interest rate information. 3. Borrowing Limits: The borrowing limits for Direct PLUS Loans are not constrained by a student's year in school or the cost of attendance, as they are with other federal loans. Instead, the loan amount can cover up to the total cost of attendance minus any other financial aid received. 4. Credit Check: To apply for a Direct PLUS Loan, the borrower must undergo a credit check. The credit check assesses the borrower's credit history to determine eligibility. Adverse credit history includes issues like bankruptcies, unpaid collections, and defaults on loans. 5. Repayment Options: Direct PLUS Loan borrowers have several repayment options available: Standard Repayment: Fixed monthly payments over a ten-year term. Graduated Repayment: Payments start lower and increase over time. Extended Repayment: Fixed or graduated payments over an extended term (up to 25 years). Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) Plans: Payments are based on your income and family size, making them more manageable if your income is lower or unpredictable. Click here for more information about IDR plans. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): If you work in a qualifying public service or nonprofit job and make 120 qualifying payments, your remaining loan balance may be forgiven. Use this Loan Simulator to see your federal student loan repayment options. You can also learn more about repayment options here . 6. Loan Fees: Direct PLUS Loans may have loan fees, which are deducted from each disbursement. These fees are typically higher than those associated with other federal loans. 7. Application Process: To apply for a Direct PLUS Loan, borrowers must complete the PLUS Loan Application and undergo a credit check. Graduate/professional students applying for Direct PLUS Loans must have submitted the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Parents applying for Parent PLUS Loans for dependent undergraduate students must also ensure the student has submitted the FAFSA. 8. Master Promissory Note (MPN): Once approved for a Direct PLUS Loan, borrowers must sign a Master Promissory Note (MPN), a legal document outlining the terms and conditions of the loan. 9. Responsibilities of Borrowers: Direct PLUS Loan borrowers are responsible for: Repaying the loan, including interest. Informing the loan servicer of any changes in contact information. Complying with the terms and conditions of the loan. Meeting any loan forgiveness or discharge criteria for which they may qualify.

Biography Back Previous Next Amanda Guzman-Appel Vice President of Campus Life & Student Affairs Amanda Guzman Appel serves as the Vice President for Campus Life & Student Affairs at the University of the Southwest, where she oversees campus ministries, career services, food services, housing, campus security, and student life. In this role, she provides strategic leadership focused on operational efficiency and student-centered resource allocation, supporting the university’s mission and long-term growth while enhancing the overall student experience. She works collaboratively across departments to ensure programs and services meet the evolving needs of a diverse student population. Prior to joining the University of the Southwest, Amanda built her foundation in higher education through student-focused roles in campus life and operations. Throughout her career, she has led initiatives that strengthen student engagement, improve service delivery, and enhance campus life programs. Her work has supported student retention and contributed to the creation of a vibrant, supportive campus environment. She has also played a key role in institutional strategic planning and has demonstrated a consistent commitment to effective stewardship, collaboration, and organizational excellence. Amanda holds a degree in Communication from Angelo State University. Her professional approach is grounded in fostering inclusive, supportive environments that promote student development, leadership, and success. Deeply committed to advancing student success, Amanda works to align campus life programs and operational strategies with the university’s mission. She is particularly passionate about enriching the student experience and ensuring that institutional resources effectively support both students and the broader campus community. Outside of her professional role, Amanda enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and traveling.

Biography Back Previous Next Steve Appel Vice President of Campus Facilities & Athletics, Head Baseball Coach New Mexico native Steve Appel has served as Vice President of Campus Facilities & Athletics at the University of the Southwest since 2022, providing strategic leadership over athletic operations and campus facility development. Since joining USW in 2014 as Head Baseball Coach, Appel has played a central role in transforming the university’s athletic department into a competitive and growth-oriented program within the Red River Athletic Conference. Appel’s leadership has driven significant progress in both performance and infrastructure. As head baseball coach, he built the Mustang program into a consistent contender, recording over 200 wins in his first seven seasons and leading the team to back-to-back RRAC Tournament appearances, including a 33-win season in 2022—one of the best in program history. That success laid the foundation for broader departmental growth and helped elevate the university’s athletic profile. At the administrative level, Appel has been instrumental in advancing major facility projects across campus. He helped secure the largest donation in university history, which funded a state-of-the-art indoor baseball facility and comprehensive renovations to Jake Williams Field. Under his leadership, enhancements have included a new playing surface, upgraded fencing, grandstand improvements, a rebuilt backstop with modern netting and padding, new bullpen areas, and a fully enclosed complex. Additional projects under his direction include the construction of a new on-campus softball field and the development of upgraded baseball facilities featuring a locker room, weight room, and restroom complex—significantly improving the student-athlete experience and recruiting capabilities. Appel’s leadership extends beyond facilities and competition. He has emphasized a culture of academic success and community engagement across the department, with teams consistently achieving strong academic performance and actively contributing to community outreach initiatives. In 2019, Appel was named Director of Athletics, expanding his oversight to all athletic programs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he led a decisive relocation of USW athletic teams to Sky Ranch in Texas, allowing programs to continue training and competition during a challenging period when many institutions were unable to operate. A native of Socorro, New Mexico, Appel began his collegiate playing career at Fort Scott Community College before transferring to the University of Bridgeport, where he served as team captain, graduated Magna Cum Laude, and earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. He began his coaching career at Bridgeport, rising to top assistant and pitching coach while developing one of the nation’s top pitching staffs. Through a combination of strategic vision, operational leadership, and a commitment to student-athlete development, Appel continues to shape the athletic and physical landscape of the University of the Southwest.

Alternative Teaching Licensure Program (Early Childhood Education) -- Back The Alternative Licensure Program is for those seeking a teacher licensure in the state of New Mexico. All classes are 8-weeks long, and you can satisfy the internship requirement as you teach full-time as the teacher of record in a PK-12 private or public New Mexico School. The alternative licensure program is fully online. Students must already have a completed bachelor’s degree and are required to pass all state licensure examinations following completion of the licensure coursework. For additional requirements for alternative licensure, see the NMPED website: Alternative Licensure Program Opportunities – New Mexico Public Education Department (state.nm.us) APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Licensure Disclosures Previous Next

Psychology BS Back The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology program provides students with foundational knowledge in psychology, human growth, development of the mind, and behavior. Students’ learning will center on the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, empirical findings, and historical trends in psychology with a focus on practical applications. Upon completion, students will also be prepared to use critical and creative thinking, skeptical inquiry, and the scientific approach to solve problems related to behavior and mental processes. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Previous Next

Teaching & Learning (Non-Licensure) MSE Back The Master of Science in Education (MSE) in Teaching & Learning program is designed as an advancement pathway for teachers. The comprehensive curriculum builds upon teachers’ existing knowledge and experiences, focusing on the development of advanced competency in core teacher leadership areas including reflective practice, personal effectiveness, interpersonal effectiveness, professional learning and collaboration, adult learning, and technology. The program aligns with InTASC Standards and the NEA Teacher Leadership competencies. Graduates of this program will be prepared to take on instructional leadership roles in P-12 schools, including curriculum and program developers, instructional coaches and mentors, and trainers/professional learning facilitators. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Previous Next