radkat

I'm planning on applying to Masters in Social Work programs as a career change from software engineering (and a BS in Physics). I took about 5 classes in Brain and Cognitive Sciences in undergrad, and since then I have some work/volunteer experience in social work/counseling. Do you think it would be helpful for my application to take the psychology subject GRE? I eventually want to become a LCSW so I do want to learn more about the counseling and psychology side of social work. Thanks for your help!

Thanks of your advice, and it's definitely encouraging to hear that my technical backround could work well for me. I don't particularly want to get a masters before my PhD I am just considering it as option to make me competitive when I apply for the PhD. Do you think I would be a stronger applicant if I did a masters degree first (and made sure to do research during the degree) or do you think I should just work or volunteer in a lab and then apply for a PhD directly? (And maybe take some postbacc classes while I'm volunteering).

My current background: * BS in physics 2011 from top university, great GPA, haven't taken GRE yet * 3 undergrad psych classes, a couple neuro * volunteered at a suicide hotline for 5 months (and plan to continue) * Software engineer in industry for 3 years, hated it so I quit * No research experience Goal: get into Clinical PhD program. I ultimately want to focus on being a practicing clinician so I will also apply to PsyD, but I am excited to do research. Question: Should I (1) find a research assistant position and maybe take some classes OR (2) attend a terminal masters that emphasizes preparation for PhD and would include research opportunities? (Secret option 3 I haven't thought of?) I've heard mixed things about masters programs, but I figured as someone who didn't major in psych it would help my application. On the other hand it is expensive. Thoughts? Do you think it would be easier to find a research opportunity as a masters student at a university? (As opposed to independently) Any other advice?