Question

I recently started looking at PhD and PsyD programs offered at different schools and am somewhat unsure as to what I am supposed to be looking out for. I plan to pursue a career in therapeutic counseling working with children with behavioral/mental health issues. I know that a PhD program in Clinical Psych is difficult to get into and am therefore looking at PsyD programs as well.

Any suggestions as to what I should be looking for? Also, how do I find out how these programs rank with others? Any thoughts about PsyD vs PhD?

Answer 1

You can ask current students what they think about it, or you can ask people in the profession.

For a lot of people location is a big factor (especially if you already have a family).  I'd also consider going to the program that you can see yourself fitting in the best!

As for PsyD vs PhD, go for whatever you prefer.  If you are unsure, flip a coin.  A lot of the time your emotions will take over right after a flip.  If you got the result you wanted, you will be happy.  If you are unhappy, you likely didn't want that choice.....this sounds a bit silly, but it usually works!

Best of Luck to you!

Comments

You're sooo right about flipping a coin! I'm leaning towards a PsyD but understand that there's less funding compared to a PhD program. What I'm going to do is apply to both and then make my decision after I get accepted and also based on how much funding I will receive from the program.

---

This answer above is not very informative. Its important to focus on several factors (1) funding, otherwise you can end up with 200,000 in loans, (2) APA internship match rate (this should be very high), (3) ask to speak to alumni and see what jobs they were able to secure, (4) overall fit with research/clinical interests.

---

Yeah, flip a coin. What a bright fücking idea! I'm sure all major life-changing decisions should be made by flipping a coin. What sort of hole did you crawl out from, Sabin? You really shouldn't be giving people advice.