MSW -> Ph.D ??

[SelfActualize]

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HELP!

I am going to be a second year student at a top MSW program. However, I have my B.S. in Psychology, and had always dreamed to get my Ph.D. in clinical psych. While at undergrad, I was in a child development lab for two years, graduated with highest distinction and a 3.94 GPA, and Phi Beta Kappa.

Yet, I had reservations about going right into a Ph.D. program (felt too young, not enough clinical experience, etc.). After talking with professors and fellow students, I went right into an MSW program. I love it, and am still doing research with a highly esteemed professor (once again in child development) and since last year have had great clinical experience in my internship.

MY DILEMMA: As my final year approaches, I feel like I am drawn more than ever to go on to get my Ph.D. in clinical psych. BUT...

My questions:

1. Should I take a year or two to work (and get my LCSW), while I study for and take the GRE and prepare my apps.?

2. Is there much benefit to go on and get my Ph.D.? Higher pay? Greater flexibility? (I'm assuming so, but just wondering)

3. I'm always worried I won't get in, I know it's tough...but do I have a chance with my background? Is it tough to get in if you have an MSW?

4. I've heard Ph.D programs often pay for your tuition (through teaching,etc.), is that true?

Ah! I'm so confused on what to do!! Any and all suggestions would be GREAT!🙂

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

1. Should I take a year or two to work (and get my LCSW), while I study for and take the GRE and prepare my apps.?

It is definitely not goo to rush, since apps can really take a lot of effort, and cause a lot of stress. If you aren't dead set on applying for the '08 year....then take your time, get your LCSW, do your GRE's, etc.

2. Is there much benefit to go on and get my Ph.D.? Higher pay? Greater flexibility? (I'm assuming so, but just wondering)

If you want to research, teach, and have more flexibility. If you just want to practice....I'm not sure I'd go through all of that effort. I think the clinical training is worth it, but I also want to do other things with my training....so it was an easy call for me. (not msw-->PhD though)

3. I'm always worried I won't get in, I know it's tough...but do I have a chance with my background? Is it tough to get in if you have an MSW?

It's tough, but it sounds like you have good research experience, solid grades, etc. Do well on your GRE's and Subject Test, and get some good letters...and you should be fine.

Any idea what you want to research?

4. I've heard Ph.D programs often pay for your tuition (through teaching,etc.), is that true?

Through RA positions, TA'ing / teaching, grants, etc. It is a big research commitment (so you better like what you are working with!), but if you enjoy that...then definitely go for it.

-t

 

[JockNerd]

4. I've heard Ph.D programs often pay for your tuition (through teaching,etc.), is that true?

T4C is right that funded positions require a significant commitment but I wanted to make sure you were clear about the degree of funding available--many PhD programs *waive* your grad tuition, they don't pay for it *through* service. So, you don't pay tuition (maybe you do pay some fees) and then you get paid *on top* of that for service (teaching or research) to the tune of anywhere from $8k to $20k.