cogneuropsy

I have noticed that most of the people active on this board are either currently undergraduates or they graduated only a few years ago. I'm almost 30 and finished my undergrad degree 7 years ago. I'm taking a few undergraduate classes and looking to gain some research experience. Still, it may take me some time before I'm prepared to even start applying to grad school. Am I too old to be starting down this career path? How might starting now affect my prospects, not only when applying to schools, but while a student and beyond?

I'm taking undergraduate psychology classes since my degree is not in psychology. I noticed that many schools offer online classes through an extension school or some continuing education program. What is the reputation of these kinds of programs? Should I avoid taking classes through such programs? I'd appreciate hearing anyone's experience with online classes and how it can affect admissions.

I graduated with a degree in communications a few years ago and recently became more interested in studying psychology. I have become familiar with the literature in a few particular areas of interest (mostly within cognitive psychology) and started taking classes at a nearby university. I'm working towards building a stronger application for a PhD program. How many courses should I take? I have seen some programs specify the amount of coursework required for students from non-psych backgrounds though many do not. What is a good way to get research experience for someone like me (already graduated, working in an unrelated field)? Any other advice? Thanks!

I'm considering doing something similar. Would you mind sharing which programs you considered and why you chose the one you did?

I am particularly interested in cognitive psychology though part of the reason I started to take classes was to explore other areas within psychology and neuroscience.

Though I have very little background in psychology, I already have a degree and just started to take courses toward getting a second bachelor's at Rutgers. It's nearby and affordable. However, I have also seen posts recommending specialized post-baccalaureate and general/experimental Master's degree programs. Which do you think is the best way to prepare for grad school in psychology?