Chapter 12 Preparing for Graduate School in Psychology - Notes

Key Considerations for Graduate School

Going to graduate school requires a strong commitment, intellectual curiosity, and willingness to make sacrifices. It's not just an extension of undergraduate studies.

Motivation and Preparation

  • Assess motivation: Ensure genuine enthusiasm for advanced study and research.
  • Early preparation: Grades matter, the higher your GPA, the better your chances.
  • Comprehensive strategy: Develop a plan early in your junior year, focusing on strengths and addressing weaknesses.

Key Factors for Program Selection

  • Cost: Consider funding opportunities (fellowships, assistantships) versus potential debt.
  • Research mentor: Identify faculty with aligned research interests.
  • Location: Assess geographical preferences and willingness to relocate.
  • Placement: Evaluate graduates' career paths and job market success.

Coursework and Skill Development

  • Core psychology courses: Introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, and courses in neuroscience, developmental, cognition, and sociocultural psychology are essential.
  • Skill acquisition: Focus on skills like experimental design, data analysis, literature review, and APA-style writing.

Demonstrating Depth and Research Experience

  • Area of Interest: Identify and pursue a specific area of interest within psychology.
  • Research experience: Essential for demonstrating research capabilities and enthusiasm.

Gaining Research Experience

  • Research assistant: Participate in faculty research to gain hands-on experience.
  • Senior thesis: Conduct an in-depth research project, showcasing initiative and skills.
  • Teaching Assistant: TA positions can prepare you for more formal teaching during graduate school
  • Summer research programs: Participate in concentrated research experiences.

Presenting Research

  • Share findings: Present research at conferences to enhance your profile.
  • Presentation Types: Poster sessions and oral presentations are common formats.

Application Strategy and Self-Assessment

  • Honest appraisal: Assess your chances of admission based on GPA, GRE scores, and other factors.
  • Balanced approach: Apply to a mix of "reach," "target," and "safety" schools.
  • Faculty contact: Consider contacting researchers directly to express interest.

Degree Options: MA vs. PhD

  • Doctorate preference: Pursuing a doctorate from the start is generally recommended for most professional opportunities.
  • Master's strategy: A master's can strengthen future doctoral applications, but involves more time and expense.

Clinical Psychology Programs

  • Competitive admissions: Clinical programs often require high GPAs, GRE scores, and relevant experience.
  • PsyD option: Consider PsyD programs, which emphasize clinical practice over research.
  • Accreditation and Internship: Verify accreditation status and internship placement records.

Application Components and Recommendations

  • Number of Applications: There is no magic number, but apply to more than one program.
  • Grades and Test Scores: Grades are important from the freshman year forward. Most psychology graduate programs require students to submit GRE scores.

Standardized Tests and Preparation

  • GRE Scores: Programs consider GRE scores; prepare using practice tests and courses.
    GRE has questions that help assess verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing
  • Retaking GRE: You can retake the exam, but you need to prepare better to score higher than the first time.

Letters of Recommendation

  • Provide necessary documents: Give recommenders a CV, personal statement, transcript, and scores.
  • Waive right to see letter: Waive your right to see the letter for a candid assessment.
  • Follow up: Track submission to ensure all letters are received.

Personal Statement

Describe your interests, skills, experiences, and career goals.

*Address your:

  • Academic interest areas in psychology

  • Specific research experiences in psychology

  • Teaching experiences relevant to psychology

  • Objectives for graduate school and career plans

  • Demonstrate writing skills: Provide a clear and concise writing sample.

  • Mental Health: Avoid extended discussions about your own mental health struggles that tends to send up red flags about your motives.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

A CV summarizes your academic life, particularly any scholarly accomplishments or experiences you have had.

Application Materials

  • Required components: Undergraduate transcript, GRE scores, application form, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
    *Typical Materials Required for Graduate School Applications:

  • Undergraduate transcript:

  • GRE and GRE Psychology Subject Test scores:

  • Completed application form:

  • Your personal statement:

  • Letters of recommendation:

  • A copy of your curriculum vitae or résumé.

Interview Preparation

  • Campus visits: Accept interview invitations to learn about the program and faculty.
  • Interview skills: Review interview skills and present yourself professionally.

If Unsuccessful

  • Strengthen profile: Address weaknesses, gain research experience, and consider a master's program.
  • Seek advice: Consult with advisors to identify areas for improvement.
  • Persistence: Continue pursuing your goals with tenacity.