FAQs About Graduate School

What are the pros and cons of getting an M.A. before a Ph.D.?

• Should I apply for a master's degree before a PhD?  
• Masters' Degree Before Ph.D.: Help Or Hindrance? 

What can I do with a BA in psychology if I do not go to graduate school?

• Finding Careers with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology 
• Entry-Level Jobs for Psychology Majors 
• Careers with a B.A. in Psychology 

How do I study for the GRE?

• GRE Online  
• What is the GRE? 

How do I ask for a letter of recommendation?

• How to request a strong letter of recommendation (pdf)  
• Advice on Letters of Recommendation 

How do I write a good letter of intent (personal statement)?

• Applying to Graduate School: Preparing a Personal Statement 
• Applying to Graduate School: Writing a Compelling Personal Statement 
• Sample Statements for Graduate Admissions  

How do I figure out what I want to do - I have no idea?

• Career Decision Tree for Psychology Students 

What is the difference between a PsyD and a PhD?

• What is the difference between a PsyD and a PhD? 

What is the difference between counseling and clinical psychology?

• Clinical Psychology for graduate school: What you need to know 
• What is the difference between a clinical psychologist and a counseling psychologist? 

How can I advertise myself to grad schools?

The Council on Undergraduate Research hosts a Registry of Undergraduate Researchers.  The purpose of this registry is to facilitate matchmaking between undergraduates who have research experience and a desire to pursue an advanced degree, with graduate schools seeking high quality students who are well prepared for research.  Any undergraduate may go to  www.cur.org/ugreg/ to fill out a simple curriculum vitae form.  There is no charge to the student and records will be made available to bona fide Graduate Schools that contract with CUR for this service.  Organizations or companies seeking the students’ information for other marketing purposes will not be granted access.  Graduate School representatives may contact students to invite applications or visits to the campus and laboratory, or to share information about their research programs and financial support opportunities.  

Graduate schools may provide a link to their websites, and may provide a short description of opportunities, such as research fields and fellowships.