Alternative Route

[tommyboy44]

---

Members don't see this ad.

As I said in a previous thread, I'm in a bit of a pickle. I was accepted into a partially funded Ph.D. Clinical program (over 100K in debt) and a Masters of Professional Counseling program. After going through the forums a bit, I realize that most people recommend getting your MSW and becoming licensed over the other 2 options. I was curious as to why that is. Especially why a licensed social worker is preferred over a licensed counselor? If this is the case, it is entirely new information that was never communicated to me in undergrad. Also, would either masters route help increase chances for a fully-funded PhD program.

Thanks

 

[JustNoticing]

It would help to know what your career goal is first. People on these boards tend to recommend a master's (only) for those whose main career goal is to be therapists.

Counseling vs. Social Work: Varies state by state. I got great clinical training in my counseling MA, but Social Workers have more job opportunities in my state thanks to weak advocacy by counselors and only being a licensable profession in my state within the past 10 years. Do some legwork to find out how counselors fare professionally in your state.

An MA helping you get into a PhD: It could help, depending on how much quality research experience you get in the program. Get some publications, do an empirical thesis and you'll be in a competitive position. Though you could also likely get great research experience by finding an RA position, especially if it is in your research area of interest. If you are going to get an MA and think you might end up not wanting to continue, aim to get the best of both if possible: a terminal MA that allows you to become licensed, while still allowing you to get valuable research experience.