Graduate Psychology Programs?

[I_Wonder]

Hello!

I am a rising senior at a tier 1 university, and am looking into graduate psychology programs. Unfortunately, my stats aren't the best (3.0 GPA), but that won't deter me from pursuing even higher education. I hope to get a PHD in psychology.

As I am resigned to the fact that the top schools are out of my reach (and thats okay!), I was wondering about other good schools. I've seen the US NEWS ranking of programs, but I was wondering about any personal experience in non-tier 1 schools some of you may have. Also, I've always wanted to move to Louisiana (odd, I know), and I know LSU has a PHD program, but I couldn't find it in the Top 100 schools in any ranking. Is that a pretty bad sign? Is it even worth it to go to a school that isn't recognized in the Top 100 of a field (on numerous different ranking systems). Is that just throwing money down the toilet? What is the meaning of life? (kidding about the last one, but everything else I am genuinely serious about)

Thanks for the help!

[repatriate]

Have you decided on a field of psychology (clinical, counseling, social, developmental, cognitive, etc.)? That would help anyone who might give advice.

[karmakitsch]

Have you decided on a field of psychology (clinical, counseling, social, developmental, cognitive, etc.)? That would help anyone who might give advice.

Ah yes, that would be helpful

School psychology or developmental psychology (focusing on children/adolescent).

Thanks for the tip in clarification!

[I_Wonder]

Have you decided on a field of psychology (clinical, counseling, social, developmental, cognitive, etc.)? That would help anyone who might give advice.

Ah yes, that would be helpful

I'm looking into school psychology, or developmental psychology (for children/adolescents).

Thanks for the tip of clarification!

PS-

I know a lot of people say rankings don't really matter, but don't they kind of do? When I look at the faculty bios at top, 2nd tier, and a lot of 3rd tier (sorry for using the tier thing; its the best descriptor I can think of) universities, they all have degrees from big name/reputable places. Should I even bother? I know its all about the work you do, but doesn't it put you at a huge disadvantage when trying to get jobs?

[boo]

LSU is a tier 1 university. Another good university in Louisiana is Tulane. As for non-tier 1 universities in louisiana you have University of New Orleans, UL-Lafeyette. If Louisiana is where you want I would apply to three with tulane and LSU being two so you will get into at least one.