Choosing a Graduate Program


Which graduate program is best suited for me?

Selecting a graduate program in Psychology that is best for you requires thoughtful consideration. Overall, your answer should reflect consideration of your:

  1. academic history
  2. learning styles
  3. career interests
  4. work experiences
  5. financial resources

In addition, for each department or program you are considering, ask the following questions:

  1. What is the profile of students recently admitted to the program, in terms of academic background, standardized test scores, and demographic characteristics?
  2. What is the program′s "track record," in terms of students admitted who graduate, and the average number of years required to achieve a degree?
  3. What are the goals and objectives of the program and do they match my interests and capabilities as a graduate student?
  4. For programs with an emphasis on academic and research careers, what is the record of graduates′ success (during their first five years) in obtaining postdoctoral research fellowships, academic appointments, or applied research positions outside the academy?
  5. For programs with an emphasis on professional practice, what is the program′s accreditation status, the record of its graduates′ success in obtaining licensure, and its graduates′ selection for advanced practice residencies and professional development in their first five years?
  6. What financial resources are available to students, and what is the average level of indebtedness among recent graduates of the program?

Source: the American Psychological Association (APA) web site

Use this chart (PDF) to help you determine the best “match” between your interests and various advanced-degree programs.