Masters vs. Full-time research

[mcbpsychdoc]

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So I applied to PhD programs for clinical psychology this year but I am pretty sure I'm not going to get any acceptances. So I was wondering if it would be better to increase my chances by doing a clinical psychology masters program or to do a couple of years of full-time research (as in RA or lab manager). I've gotten interviews for both directions so I'm not sure which way to go. I'd also be working at a much more reputable school than where I would be getting a masters. Any advice and insight would be great!!

 

[teebee]

In my opinion, based on my experience and experiences of others that I've heard from.... I would DEFINITELY recommend the full time research job. One, you will get paid a decent amount and save money instead of paying for more school. Two, you will get more research experience than you would in most master's programs (as long as you find a good research position that includes a variety of valuable research responsibilities, not just data entry), and research experience is the main thing that PhD programs want. period.

I applied to PhD programs last year while still in undergrad and got zero interviews, so I found a full time RA position after graduating. This year (same GRE, same GPA), I have gotten several interviews/acceptances. So it looks like the research position did it, and I'll go into grad school having saved a bunch of money - I'm so glad I'm not in a master's program racking up thousands of dollars worth of debt! 🙂

 

[LaserPrinter]

if you can, go for a master's in experimental research and don't accept unless you get funding (graduate assistant position). otherwise i'd say do research

 

[KayJay85]

I agree with both previous responses. If you are not funded and getting research experience, a master's would be a poor investment of your time and money. I, too, applied unsuccessfully for clinical PhD programs straight from UG. I then worked in an awesome lab for about a year and a half. I got valuable experience (be wary of data entry mills), opportunities to attend a few conferences, and a couple of pubs. Gaining admittance to a PhD program after that was a breeze. Best of luck with whatever you decide to do. And congrats on the solid options. 🙂

 

[starsinnight]

You can always do both at the same time. If you do go the direction of the paid RA job, you should technically receive tuition remission and get free classes. And if it is at a "reputable" school like you said, you can also take some free grad-level psychology courses here and there in the meantime if you don't want to commit to both and enroll in a masters program.

 

[mcbpsychdoc]

Thanks for all the advice guys! Really appreciate it!