Difference between "new" programs and nonaccredited?

[amm0702]

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Do APPIC internship sites evaluate students from new programs (that are in the process of applying to accreditation) differently than programs that have been rejected or are not interesting in becoming accredited?

I'm from a new program (in existence 4 years), PhD (Clinical Health), at a large public university with established medical school and several other PhD programs. We are fully fully funded (saving thousands by sacrificing accreditation seemed like a fabulous idea 4 years ago) and have recruited a number of faculty from large universities. We had one student apply and match last year (to a Duke site) but he had years of work experience/several hours and 10+ pubs. I am a more traditional student...4th year into my PhD straight out of undergrad and have mediocre credentials (625 intervention/assess hours, I did publish my thesis, and a handful of conference presentations). With this limited information provided, can anyone enlighten me on my chances of matching? How can I get sites to even look at my application? What types of sites can't take me? (VA?)
Sorry for the length - ANY suggestions or feedback is greatly appreciated.

 

[docma]

Usually the key is having your program head write a compelling statement about the progress on accreditation and the quality of the program and then seeking out sites that will have a particular interest in the Health Psychology focus. You will have to sell your way in to the interview level and the VA probably will see non-accreditation as a rule out for this year. However, other systems may be willing to interview you if the medical/health aspect of your training comes through clearly and the prospect of accreditation is real. Your program should be giving you a lot of coaching on how to overcome this hurdle and if not, go ask for it now.

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

Per VA regulations, a VA internship cannot consider a student from a non-acred APA applicant. However, I think there are still opportunities for strong candidates out there at other internship sites. It is important to do some advanced planning and target sites that list being open to students from non-acred programs applying.

 

[InUrHead]

I come from a similar program to what you are describing, and what I generally observed is that it is better to be from a program that is working towards being accredited rather than a program that has failed to get accredidation or just does not want to be.

I successfully matched at a fabulous site -but I did have more practica hours than you. Perhaps you could do another?? Just a thought 🙂