How to Choose a Psychology Graduate School
So you've decided to go to psychology graduate school,
but now you face a difficult question: What graduate school should you choose?
While you may know exactly what you want to study and have a specific career
goal, not all psychology graduate programs are created equal. For this reason,
it is vital that you thoroughly explore a number of factors before you choose
the graduate school in psychology that is right for your needs, interests and
goals.
Where
Is the School Located?
When you are comparing different psychology graduate
schools, carefully consider the school’s location. Do you plan on moving away
to attend graduate school, or would you prefer to remain closer to family and
friends? If possible, visit each school, spending some time touring both the
campus and local community. Is it in a rural or urban area? Think about your
own needs and wishes and then prepare a list of pros and cons for each area.
How
Much is the Cost of Attendance?
Psychology graduate schools vary widely in terms of
tuition and fees, so it is important to realistically consider your current
financial situation. Prepare an estimate of yearly tuition and living expenses
for each school you are considering and compare it with your savings, yearly
earnings and willingness to acquire debt. Do you plan on taking out student
loans to pay for school, or are you planning to utilize your current savings?
Are there scholarships or graduate assistantships that you could apply for that
would help pay for psychology graduate school.
What
is the Program’s Teaching Philosophy?
Each psychology graduate school has a different approach
to teaching and emphasizes different aspects of psychology in the curriculum.
If you plan on working in academia or research after graduation, consider
programs that emphasize experimental methods, psychological theory and research
experience. If you want to work directly in patient care, you will want to look
for programs that offer coursework in clinical topics and allow students to
practice skills in real-world situations.
What
Type of Degree Does the Program Offer?
Carefully consider the degree options of each psychology
graduate school. Does the department offer a general degree, or can you
specialize your field of study? Request a course catalog and look at the type
of courses the department offers. Also check that the program and curriculum
meets state requirements for licensing or certification in your chosen field.
What
Is the School’s Reputation?
First and foremost, make sure that the psychology
graduate school you are applying to is accredited. Accreditation requirements
ensure that the program meets a certain level of quality and that the
coursework and faculty can provide adequate training and education. Do
graduates of the program seem satisfied with their experience? Ask the
department for information on where graduates of the program found employment
and the availability of job search assistance.
Image source: http://www.sxc.hu/photo/1262267
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The journey to learning starts with choosing the psychology graduate programs that fit your goals, and that speaking, is for general.
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