Anyone else in a distance-based program?

[Jim1970]

Hello,

I live in one state and commute to school and classes in a neighboring state. I am pursuing my Psy.D. in a school that is working towards APA accreditation. I will be in the school once the APA accredits the program -- my plan is to make sure of that!

I wondered if anyone else here is in a similiar situation?

Thanks,

Jim

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[sicologia]

Are you currently in the program taking classes or are you still waiting on accreditation to enroll? I'm not sure I understand. BTW, I wont be commuting across state borders this fall... I'm just trying to help clarify your request. Thanks and good luck!

 

[Ollie123]

I'm also confused. Distance-based usually means online coursework. Is that the case for you, or do you just mean you commute a fair distance? If so, that isn't really a "distance-based program" that's just a decision to make a longer commute than most....

Not really in a position to comment on psych in particular, but happy to offer what I can if you clarify for us

 

[Jim1970]

Hello,

Sorry, I guess my post wasn't very clear. Let me try again.

I am in the program now -- 2nd year student -- and I drive 5 hours one way to get to classes. Classes meet a couple of times a month. Assignments are turned in by email or traditional mail.

I have a couple of years of work left, then I'm done. I am hoping that by then the school will have their accreditation.

I was curious if anyone else here attended school in that fashion.

Jim

 

[sicologia]

You should check to be sure that when your school receives APA accreditation, the actual program that you are matriculating a degree with will also grant you a degree that has been APA accredited. I've imagine that schools could retroactively grant this, but only for students that are at the school in a program that is identical to the program being accredited. Also, from my understanding, one of the main reasons you would want this is to gain an APA accredited internship. Will you be expected to do this, as well?

I'd also have to agree with Ollie123 in that this would typically not be considered "distance learning". It's interesting that your program accepts your assignments in the mail/email, but a distance learning/online degree is one that typically does not conduct classes (in your case, however, it appears you meet from time to time). So, either way, you're going to finish with this school and I would advise you to check with the department head or any committee(s) involved with the accreditation. Good luck.

 

[Jim1970]

Sicologia,

Thanks for your comments. My MSW came from a program that was "in candidacy" during my time in the program; the earning of an accredited degree was automatic for those in the program during the in-candidacy phase.

I never thought to inquire if that was the same situation for my doctorate and for APA stuff. I will certainly check into this!

I am in a very unique situation overall -- First, I'm 36 years old and decided to return to school (what the hell was I thinking??). Second, I live in a Frontier state (Wyoming) and I have a private practice, a family, a mortgage, etc. etc., so all this "jump through the hoops and try to match this or that" BS that I see and hear about is not something I will be doing. I am in the program with a colleague who also lives in the same community, adn we have created an practicum placement. Our plan is for this to evolve into an internship when the time arrives. My state allows for an equivilency (sp?) option if the program and internship are not APA (most states do this). So, I am taking steps now to make becoming licensed as smooth as possible.

I am thinking about exploring state psychology boards licensing practices as a dissertation idea. I am also curious about comparing APA and non-APA practitioners -- to explore if there is any significant differences.

I enjoy dialogues about this stuff, so keep those comments rollin'!

Thanks again,

Jim

 

[sicologia]

Jim-

I think it's great that you're returning to school! I don't think it's ever too late to go back and improve your situation academically or any other way for that matter. I am 35, getting married, and will be working FT while attempting to complete a 3-5 year doctoral program. I've spent the past 5 years working full time while getting a master's and specialist degree in psychology. The truth is...I'll probably be so busy that my head will spin off axis, but I think it's absolutely worth it! Plus, once you're in the swing of things again, the schoolwork will all feel like second nature. Definitely approach your department and ask what is happening with the accreditation and when they expect to gain it. Hope this all helps.

S

 

[Jim1970]

Sicologia,

Thanks again for the comments. The term I am in just started, and I have three classes to knock out in a couple of months time. As I have begun my readings, and as I begin outlining assignments, due dates, etc., my thoughts have gone from "why the hell did I do this to myself?" to "I can't wait to knock out this next class." I love doctoral studies and at the same time I hate it; but I remind myself of my goals and I press on. I know it will be like this forever. And, to help me, my wife has made me swear that this really will be the last academic degree I pursue!

Take care,

Jim