So you think you want to go to graduate school… Now what?? Psychology Graduate School Information Session March 28, 2013 Prof. Azarbad

Overview Types of graduate programs available Searching for the right program Application process and timeline Preparing yourself to be a strong candidate Panel discussion P.S. We are being videotaped

Types of Programs Master’s ProgramsDoctoral Programs Typically 2-3 years longTypically 5-7 years long Can enter with a Bachelor’s degreeCan enter with a Master’s or Bachelor’s Degree Average GPA for admission: 3.0+ (some 2.75) Average GPA for admission: 3.5+ Typically prepares you for a career in clinical work/counseling, or as a stepping stone to a doctoral degree Prepares for a career in clinical work, research, and teaching Types: Master’s in Counseling, Master’s in Clinical Psychology, Master’s in Social Work, Master’s in School Psychology, Master’s in Marriage and Family therapy, etc. Ph.D. (any field of study) Psy.D. (only for clinical psychology)

Applied Fields (Ones that train you to do assessment/counseling) ClinicalCounseling Master’s of Social Work (MSW) Master’s of School Psychology Types: Child, Adult, Health, Forensic, Geriatric, etc. Types: General or specialty tracks (Health, School, etc.)

Research Fields (Ones that train you to do research/teaching, but not clinical work) CognitiveDevelopmental Industrial Social/Personality ExperimentalBiological Behavioral Neuroscience

Ph. D. vs. Psy. D. Emphasize practice and research Smaller classes Lower acceptance rate Typically in university depts. Offer more funding to students Longer (5-8 years) Emphasize practice over research Larger classes Greater acceptance rate Often in free-standing professional schools Offer less funding to students Shorter time line (5-6 years)

How do I know which program is right for me? Answer the “Miracle Question:” Assume you are done with your education. Tomorrow, you get to wake up and go to your dream job. What would you be doing? Other considerations Long-term goals (teaching, research?) Funding Location Academic Readiness Commitment

Starting your search 1. Graduate Programs in Psychology book In library, and also on reserve in the Psychology main office 2. Visit program websites Look for the training model Specialty tracks offeredtracks Admission criteria Compare Ph.D. and Psy.D. programs within the same school PSY.D Vs. PH.D. PSY.DPH.D.

The application process Resume/Curriculum Vitae Transcripts Letters of recommendation (typically 3) Personal Statement (SO Important!!) Seek faculty input GRE (maybe) GRE Informational session, April 9, 12:30-1:30 pm, Goldspohn 20 Content and structure, scores, test prep, test taking strategies, GRE resources Getting In book (in Psychology main office) Timeline (See handout)

Preparing yourself now Enhance your academic achievements Research Internships/Volunteer work Marlene Starzyk, Career Center Get involved extra-curricularly Study for the GRE Start your resume Talk to your advisor about coursework/experiences that will better prepare you for your intended path

Additional Resources  Career Development Center (located on 2 nd floor of Stadium)  Have conversations with faculty within your areas of interest  Reach-out to alumni who work in the field(s) you are considering