Common Qualifications for Graduate Education in Psychology

Background in Psychology

• Over 70% of Ph.D. recipients also received their bachelor's degree in Psychology

Past and Current Work and Research Experience

• Work experience relevant to the field

• Research experience demonstrating ability to interpret, design, and conduct research

• Creating a picture of you as a worker--your character, reliability, and judgment

Letters of Recommendation

• 3 faculty members who can write more about you than, "This student got an A in my class..."

• Insight into your potential as a graduate student and professional in your field

• Capacity to withstand rigors of graduate education and conduct independent projects

Personal Statement

• Who you are, why you want that degree, and why you chose that specific program over the rest

High Grade Point Average

• According to the APA, the median GPA for applicants accepted into master's degree programs is roughly 3.5; doctoral programs 3.65.

• Many master's programs require a 3.0 GPA just to apply; many doctoral programs a 3.5 GPA

• The more highly ranked the specific program, the more competitive the GPA and other qualifications will be. For example, a graduate degree at USC will be more competitive to be accepted to than the same degree offered at a California State University.

• Certain general programs are also more difficult to get into than others. A Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, for example, often requires at least a 3.7 GPA, along with other additional demands.

GRE Scores

• The GRE is an essential piece of the graduate application. Even over 80% of master's programs now require the GRE.

• Everything you need to know about the GRE here and how to sign up at ETS

• Get your GRE prep through Kaplan or Princeton Review

Writing Sample

• Many graduate programs, especially Ph.D. programs, will want you to provide an academic writing sample as proof of your ability to write an APA style, graduate level research paper.

Next Page>>