Notes
Slide Show
Outline
1
PSYCHOLOGY
  • Information about Graduate Education
2
Different Programs in Psychology
  • Clinical Psychologist  Psychopathology
  • Industrial Organizational Psychologist Employment/Organization
  • Social Psychologist Social Behavior
  • Cognitive Psychologist Thinking and Perception
  • Health Psychologist Promotion of good health
  • School Psychologist Children and Intelligence
  • Counseling Psychologist “Day-to-day Problems”
  • Neuro/Physiological Psychologist Understanding of the brain
  • Sports Psychologist Understanding the dynamics of sports


3
Masters of Arts in Psychology (M.A.)
  • Usually a 2 year program.
  • Extensive training in practical experience with some emphasis on research.
  • With a master’s degree you are not a psychologist, but a therapist.
  • Hard to get reimbursement from insurance companies, almost impossible.
  • It is very difficult to get an academic position.
4
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • A Ph.D., degree is very research oriented. Programs train you primarily in research, but you do have an internship where you will receive practical experience.
  • It is very difficult to get accepted to a Ph.D., program depending on number of applicants, and other important factors such as GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and GPA.
  • A Ph.D., degree is usually required for academic and research positions.
5
Admission to Graduate Programs (steps to consider)
  • Know your program: What is it that this program has that makes you want to go there? Research your program as much as you can.
  • How to finance your education: Look into loans, fellowships/scholarships, and research/ teaching assistantships.
  • APA accreditation: The American Psychological Association accredits programs that meet acceptable professional training standards.
  • When to apply: Schools vary in their deadlines, although most rage from January 1 through February 15.
  • Number of applications to submit: It depends,  because there is no magic figure for number of programs to apply. You can apply to 1 program, and get accepted, but you can also apply to 20, and not get accepted...
6
Admissions to Graduate Programs (steps to consider)
  • Application Materials: Test scores from either Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Miller Analogies Test (MAT) are usually required.
  • Transcripts: Usually required by most schools detailing your work at each institution you have attended.
  • Letters of Recommendation: 3 or 4 letters of recommendation are also usually required by most schools. Ask your psychology professors!
  • Experience: Not essential, but always a plus. Evidence of research and practical experience suggest that you are involved, and show a positive sign of your potential for professional growth.