Often cited as the world’s leading independent graduate school devoted exclusively to training in psychology and related behavioral sciences, The Chicago School has taken on another distinction. It is not only the largest, but—through its newly forged affiliation with the California Graduate Institute (CGI)—it now qualifies as the first such school in the country.

CGI became part of The Chicago School early in the fall semester, when Presidents Michael Horowitz and Marvin Koven signed a formal affiliation, merging their two institutions. The result is a more robust West Coast presence for TCS as CGI campuses in Irvine and Westwood, Calif., join the recently opened Los Angeles Campus in providing educational opportunities for graduate psychology students. At the start of this fall, CGI enrollment stood at more than 350 students in six degree programs and 14 certificates.

“The intent of this partnership is to unite the strengths of both organizations,” said TCS President Michael Horowitz in his announcement to students, faculty, and staff. “As a result of the TCS-CGI affiliation, we can now stake claim to being the first and largest independent nonprofit school devoted exclusively to graduate psychology and related behavioral sciences education in the world.”

In addition to its locations and experience with offering training for the Marriage and Family Therapy licensure, CGI also brings to TCS one of California’s largest and most successful counseling centers. The CGI Counseling Center provides psychotherapy and counseling services that are affordable and accessible. In turn, The Chicago School brings to CGI a growing national and international reputation; additional resources in the areas of community engagement and student services; experience with regional and programmatic accreditation; and program diversity. Plans to integrate the institutions originated when The Chicago School Board of Trustees initiated efforts to expand TCS to new geographies. At the same time, Dr. Marvin Koven, began thinking about strategies to ensure the future of CGI. Dr. Koven will remain active at the Irvine and Westwood campuses as chancellor and professor.

Drs. Horowitz and Koven agree that the potential is high for alumni of both organizations to be among the chief beneficiaries of the affiliation.

“Graduates will soon have access to a larger network of psychology professionals, employment opportunities, career services, and new locations and programs should you wish to continue your education,” they said in a joint letter to the CGI community.