Nova Southeastern PsyD/PhD

[blondie1oed83]

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Hi guys,
I just got accepted to both the Ph D and Psy D Clinical Psych programs at Nova Southeastern...I got denied to all the other 13 PhD programs I applied to. I just wanted to know what you all know about Nova Southeastern and it's reputation. I'm just kinda of wondering why I got accepted here and denied everywhere else. Any and ALL information would be much appreciated. I'm trying to make the most educated decision I can...if I don't end up going to Nova I'm going to a master's program..which I don't really want to do.

Thank you so much !!

~Erica🙂

 

[erg923]

For a Ph.D program, they accept alot of students 20 or more usually, compared to most places that accept 5-10. It has a pretty good rep generally, and in neuropsych circles. Lack of the support is the biggest downside. I'm sure therapist4change can weigh in with more specifics and inside info.

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

For a Ph.D program, they accept alot of students 20 or more usually, compared to most places that accept 5-10. It has a pretty good rep generally, and in neuropsych circles. Lack of the support is the biggest downside. I'm sure therapist4change can weigh in with more specifics and inside info.

So I wander back in the forum and get something I can actually speak about..... I think they are accepting for 15ish spots this year. Good neuro reputation, good research opportunities, solid clinical training....and of course, crappy funding. Being a bit larger gives you a bit more resources, though it isn't like going to a place with 3-4 people per year.....as the Psy.D. and Ph.D. classes are together.

I guess it depends on what you really want. If you have your heart set on somewhere else and think you have a shot, I'd say go for that. If you want a pretty decent program, good opportunities, and a comfortable setting.....NSU fits that. In retrospect I was accepted into both and went with the Psy.D. because it fit my needs better, though I ended up doing more research and thought of switching, but either way 95% of the classes are the same (minus some research credits, advanced and multi-variate stats, and a more in-depth research focus).

What is your area of research?

 

[IceBoxWoman]

Hi guys,
I just got accepted to both the Ph D and Psy D Clinical Psych programs at Nova Southeastern...I got denied to all the other 13 PhD programs I applied to. I just wanted to know what you all know about Nova Southeastern and it's reputation. I'm just kinda of wondering why I got accepted here and denied everywhere else. Any and ALL information would be much appreciated. I'm trying to make the most educated decision I can...if I don't end up going to Nova I'm going to a master's program..which I don't really want to do.

Thank you so much !!

~Erica🙂

Erica, I read your post and immediately thought: "I'm in the exact same boat!" Well, the same except I haven't been accepted to Nova (yet?!). I've been checking my email like a crazy person, b/c I want to hear back soon. But it was the only PsyD/PhD program that I interviewed at of the 12-13 that I applied to and got denied. Anyway, good luck on making your decision. It seemed to me after interviewing that Nova has a pretty good reputation. They're well represented in conferences and have high internship placement rates. Of course, this is what I heard at the interview.

 

[blondie1oed83]

I'm not sure what my research would be yet...although I'm extremely interested in dual diagnosis, because I'm working with them currently. I know that this interest fits into both the long term mental illness and health concentrations. I just want to get the best education possible. Also...what are the class sizes? And, how are the professors in making time for you....and do students have "supervisors" or "mentors" like they do at other PhD programs?

 

[mshbe]

I also looked into this issue. Professors in the field seem to think that Nova has a very reputable program, at least this is my experience with faculty in Boston and Philadelphia. Nova also has a very good faculty with a wide range of interests. I think that it may be less competative than other programs because of the funding issue, which may turn off some more competative applicants. The program itself as far as education and opportunities go, however, seems to be solid.

The large class sizes seem to be due to the large faculty, and that it's just a big school. I've heard that it's possible to "slip through the cracks" as far as relationship with faculty, but it seems that if you make an effort to get to know them and work closely with them, they will get to know you as well.

Good luck with your decision.

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

I also looked into this issue. Professors in the field seem to think that Nova has a very reputable program, at least this is my experience with faculty in Boston and Philadelphia. Nova also has a very good faculty with a wide range of interests. I think that it may be less competative than other programs because of the funding issue, which may turn off some more competative applicants. The program itself as far as education and opportunities go, however, seems to be solid.

The large class sizes seem to be due to the large faculty, and that it's just a big school. I've heard that it's possible to "slip through the cracks" as far as relationship with faculty, but it seems that if you make an effort to get to know them and work closely with them, they will get to know you as well.

I agree, decent reputation, good faculty, good training opportunity, etc. Some people choose to be loners, but in general there are opportunities for those who want them. If they had better funding (in addition to cutting the bottom % of people), I think it'd do a lot for the program. They are supposedly doing that....but time will tell.

 

[blondie1oed83]

I'm sorry I'm asking so many questions....I hope this isn't totally annoying. I'm just trying to gather as much information as possible in order to make the best decision for my career. Are students assigned to a particular mentor?

 

[IceBoxWoman]

From what I understand, you are assigned a mentor/advisor for your first semester but it is very informal. Most students seek out their own mentor in the field they want to specialize in.

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

From what I understand, you are assigned a mentor/advisor for your first semester but it is very informal. Most students seek out their own mentor in the field they want to specialize in.

Agreed....though on the Ph.D. side, people tend to know who they are going to work with coming in, at least know that they want to work in a certain area and which professor or two that would fit.

 

[blondie1oed83]

One more question.....Nova Southeastern is FULLY accredited by APA...right? I saw on the website that it said it was...but I just wanted to make sure. I'm a little obcessive about all this...heh

 

[erg923]

Yes

 

[mshbe]

Just out of curiosity, can someone who has the Insider's Guide tell me what Nova's clinical PhD number is, on the 1-7 scale of research vs clinical? I have an idea about what it probably is, and I've already made my decision, but I'm just curious...

Thanks!

 

[smitten]

Just out of curiosity, can someone who has the Insider's Guide tell me what Nova's clinical PhD number is, on the 1-7 scale of research vs clinical? I have an idea about what it probably is, and I've already made my decision, but I'm just curious...

Thanks!

The 2006-2007 Edition puts the Ph.D. program at a 6 and the Psy.D. program at a 3.
Odd. I would've expected the Ph.D. to be lower from what I've read on here.

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

The 2006-2007 Edition puts the Ph.D. program at a 6 and the Psy.D. program at a 3.
Odd. I would've expected the Ph.D. to be lower from what I've read on here.

Realistically I think it is a 4 or 5.....very balanced.

 

[DiZzY187]

OMG! lol I was accepted also. Ok here is the thing, I applied to 28 schools (yes 28! but all my application fees were waived) anyway. I had 5 interviews out of all of them, with one being Nova. I've been accepted but I'm not sure if I want to go. Its the only place I've been accepted into, but I really dont wanna have a PhD with over $100k in loans, I haven't heard back from other schools, well besides rejections. I've gotten maybe 12 rejections so far. Do schools accept you after April 15? Because I'm thinkinbg of accepting, but hoping that last minute I'll get into a funded program. But I do like NOVA, I jsut don't like their lack of funding and how you can get lost in the shuffle. I'm looking in housing and jobs in the area right now, so that I'm ready if I do end up having to go there.

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

My 2 cents....I think the training is pretty good, but if you can get into a good program with funding, obviously go there. I would call/e-mail any place you haven't heard from yet, as I'd want definite confirmation from everyone before making a decision (if the acceptance I had wasn't from my clear cut #1 choice).

As for getting lost in the shuffle, that only would happen if you actively try to avoid people. I can only speak for myself, but I have plenty of access to opportunities and people have sought me out (and vice versa), so it is what you make of it. It isn't perfect, but outside of the funding issues....it offers a good opportunity for training.

 

[bballgal123]

Hi! I've been accepted into the Psy D program at Nova Southeastern, and I happened to stumble upon this site yesterday. I am really excited about the program - I loved the school, faculty, etc. - but I am a bit nervous about attending a school that does not offer funding. Can anyone give me a reasonable estimate of how much 5 yrs at Nova may cost? I've seen all the standard info (cost per credit hour, extra fees) on the Nova website, but I'm just trying to figure out how many dollars in loans I might need to cover the whole package (tuition, books, living expenses in So. FL., ...) Thanks for your help!

 

[hotpenguin007]

i was accepted to Nova's psyd program...i know they really discouraged students from having a job their first year, but realistically that is impossible with the cost of tuition alone, SO i was wondering what the first year class schedule would be like before I try looking for a job...

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

Class schedule: http://cps.nova.edu/programs/PsyDProgramC6.html

The 4th year is a bit deceiving because typically people take their last 4 electives or so, in addition to doing research and their Core Competency Exam, so it isn't as simple as it looks in that table. As for work, some people work as GA, RA, etc starting their first year, though YMMV on how much time you will have to do it. I planned to not work my first year or so (saved up money before leaving my career) as I knew the adjustment back to school would be harder for me.

 

[myelin]

Given 119 credit hours and the financial information taken from here, I calculated $94,240 for 5 years, tuition and fees only.

As far as living expenses, I conducted a search a few weeks ago for apartments around campus in the Davie area and found an approximate range of $800-1200/month for a 1 bed/1 bath apartment. Interestingly, I found that some apartment complexes included free AC which would definately be an amenity living in that area.

Gas prices in that area are currently around 3.33-3.39.

As for books, I usually order them from Amazon which has saved me a significant amount over the past few years. If this is your sort of thing, I'd recommend it versus being gouged at the campus bookstore.

You may want to ask T4C on this forum as he has a lot of helpful information regarding the ins and outs of NSU. I'm considering this school just as you are and my main issue is finding out just how much it would cost to attend NSU. Let me know what you find out, and congrats on your acceptance 😎

 

[myelin]

Class schedule: http://cps.nova.edu/programs/PsyDProgramC6.html

The 4th year is a bit deceiving because typically people take their last 4 electives or so, in addition to doing research and their Core Competency Exam, so it isn't as simple as it looks in that table. As for work, some people work as GA, RA, etc starting their first year, though YMMV on how much time you will have to do it. I planned to not work my first year or so (saved up money before leaving my career) as I knew the adjustment back to school would be harder for me.

That's interesting that you say that about people working as GAs during their first year. I contacted a clinical faculty member at NSU and they stated that there are no GAs available for first-year students. I'll have a MA coming in if I'm accepted so I'm wondering how that would work out.

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

As for books, I usually order them from Amazon which has saved me a significant amount over the past few years. If this is your sort of thing, I'd recommend it versus being gouged at the campus bookstore.

Or you can buy some off of me....hopefully they are still using the same editions. 😎

As for tuition and whatnot, it definitely has gone up since I've been there, but I guess that happens across the board at programs. I can't really speak to housing expenses, as I have a great deal through my buddy, though most of my friends having roommates or spouses.

You can get some/most conference travel paid for through the school (as long as you are presenting), and there are opportunities to work (time permitting), though obviously it'd be better if they had more funding....definitely the Achilles heel of the program.

 

[bballgal123]

Does anyone have any information about transfer credits? I will be coming into Nova with my Master's and a lot of the coursework overlaps. I know that the school will only accept a certain number of credits (I think it's 15), but I was wondering how difficult it is to get credits to transfer.

Also, how does one go about finding part-time jobs at Nova? Is it best to talk to faculty members that you are interested in working with first and go from there?

 

[hotpenguin007]

hmmm...as far as when your classes are scheduled, is your typical school week mon-friday morning to afternoon?

and thanks for all the info 🙂

 

[islandgirl1]

everytime I see a Nova thread I get so excited about starting school there! 😀
I even know the course listing for my first semester by heart...
I'm pathetic

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

Does anyone have any information about transfer credits? I will be coming into Nova with my Master's and a lot of the coursework overlaps. I know that the school will only accept a certain number of credits (I think it's 15), but I was wondering how difficult it is to get credits to transfer.

A friend of mine had a few classes waived, but I'm not sure how this is handled as i didn't transfer in any credits.

Also, how does one go about finding part-time jobs at Nova? Is it best to talk to faculty members that you are interested in working with first and go from there?

Yup. You'll see jobs get sent out via e-mail too.

hmmm...as far as when your classes are scheduled, is your typical school week mon-friday morning to afternoon?

and thanks for all the info 🙂

The first semester 1.5 credit classes are split up (1st half / 2nd half), so your schedule should be balanced. I'd guess maybe classes 3 days a week, though when I started it was different (we set out own schedules). Everyone takes the same classes for the first semester (except neuropsych, they have to take an additional class a semester). Fridays and Mondays are a bit lighter on classes, but profs use these times for meetings. Don't worry, you'll be busy. 😀

 

[myelin]

everytime I see a Nova thread I get so excited about starting school there! 😀
I even know the course listing for my first semester by heart...
I'm pathetic

Pathetic? I think not. That's passion!

 

[hotpenguin007]

so although i am going to be a psyd student, i do want to be involved in research as well. i was wondering if anyone could give me their opinions on who would be the best professors to work with...my areas of interest are drug and alcohol use, adolescents, and multicultural population/issues. Any advice?

 

[Therapist4Chnge]

so although i am going to be a psyd student, i do want to be involved in research as well. i was wondering if anyone could give me their opinions on who would be the best professors to work with...my areas of interest are drug and alcohol use, adolescents, and multicultural population/issues. Any advice?

Here are the people I know and/or have done research with in the past. PM me if you want particulars.

Alcohol Abuse: The Sobells (Linda & Mark)....they do Guided Self-Change in regard to SA. IIRC they founded the GSC movement.

Adolescents:
*School: Dr. R. Cash & Dr. S. Valley-Grey. School Psych profs are awesome to work with and are active in the field. Dr. Cash is the incoming NASP President.

*ADHD: Dr. D. Reitman...ADHD and behavior modification for kids. Well published and a nice guy. Open to pub and work with.

*Health Peds: Dr. J. Faust....I think she does some trauma work too....YMMV. Dr. J. Gold does childhood trauma...though in regard to current adults.

*Multi-Cultural: Dr. J. Lewis....he does most of the multi-cultural work.

Dr. T. Moragne does things in regard to cultural/sexual minorities, and AIDs related work. Really bright and quirky guy.

Dr. Campbell has done stuff in the past and he usually teaches the diversity class, though I'm not as familiar with his work....nice guy from what I've heard though.