PhD prerequisite classes - need help!

[Galia]

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I am a ‘grown up’ professional in another field thinking to add psychology to my career. If I decide to apply to PhD, I will need to take prerequisite classes (of which I only have stats and may be research methods). I do not know whether it is better to take prerequisites at undergraduate level or masters level (I have MBA and there are schools that allow non matriculated status, or I could even apply for Masters program and after I am done required classes – apply to PhD).

Which level - masters or undergrad classes is a better way to go?

Does anyone know east coast schools where one can start with Masters level and apply to PhD level in the same school (the only one I know is New School in NY)?

Do PhD programs view taking masters level classes more favorably than undergrad level?

Also, I’ve noticed there are PhD programs that do not have any prerequisites. I have some relevant background, but not too much. Does it make sense to apply to any of these programs or they tend to be much more competitive than ones with prereqs?

THANKS!

 

[50960]

Stats and methods at a graduate PSYCH level are the best. Business stats do not cut it as they are all about central tendencies etc... MBA and PhD are strong contenders in the field...go for it! 🙂

 

[Galia]

Thanks!

My stats and methods are from Sociology undergrad... plus my work is studying large population samples so can just try passing exam....

I was wondering about 'MBA and PhD are strong contenders.. ' . I thought they do not overlap at all?

 

[OneLove]

What are the prereq's for Clinical psych phd programs?

 

[Galia]

It depends on a school. The longest list I found is psychology major, otherwise many schools have statistics, methods, inroductory (general), psychopathology. Few programs also have
Developmental Psychology, Learning and Personality.

 

[winnie]

What are the prereq's for Clinical psych phd programs?

Check out table 2 in this article:

http://www.psichi.org/pubs/articles/article_151.asp

 

[50960]

I meant that someone with an MBA and PhD in psych is a strong contender for a psych job. 😉

 

[ClinApp]

Regarding the original question - I don't think it matters whether your classes are at the undergraduate or masters level - just as long as you take a healthy selection of psychology courses and of course any specific prerequisites. Generally there does not seem to be any particular advantage to taking graduate level courses, so long as you do well in whatever classes you do take. Often the course content may be very similar anyway. You just want to show a sufficient background and interest in psychology to justify pursuing a graduate degree in it.

Good luck! 🙂

 

[deuist]

Lots of stats and abnormal psychology. You will probably need developmental psych as well as behavioral or cognitive psych. Though not required, some courses in biology and chemistry will come in handy if you want to do pharmacy psychology.

 

[Galia]

Thanks to all who answered!