Those of you who got into School Psych programs...

[LTee]

Im curious to those of you who got into School Psych programs, what did your applications look like? I failed to get into any schools, Im pretty sure it was my GRE scores. Any advice from successful school psych applicants or any psych applicants in general? Should I take some continuing education grad courses? Does having recommendations from only employers HURT my application? Obviously I will retake the GREs. Im trying to plan for the next round of re-applying. Thanks guys.

[dramanda]

Hi there,

I noticed that you applied at the Ed.S. level. I applied and was successful in PhD School Psych programs, so perhaps my experience was a little different. Are you applying to only Ed.S programs again next year? I'd be happy to provide you with my info if you think it would help.

What schools did you apply to?

[LTee]

Yes, I did only apply to Ed.S level programs at Seattle University, and Brooklyn College. Im not really sure what the benefits of getting a Phd in school psych are, other than research opportunities, in which that case Im not really into research. I just want to lean and get certified! Either way, any info would be greatly appreciated. Are there major benefits of applying to a Phd program as opposed to Ed.S? I really dont think I have the GPA or potential GRE scores to do that right of the bat.

[dramanda]

Yes, I did only apply to Ed.S level programs at Seattle University, and Brooklyn College. Im not really sure what the benefits of getting a Phd in school psych are, other than research opportunities, in which that case Im not really into research. I just want to lean and get certified! Either way, any info would be greatly appreciated. Are there major benefits of applying to a Phd program as opposed to Ed.S? I really dont think I have the GPA or potential GRE scores to do that right of the bat.

I applied at the doctoral level because I wanted to keep the research option open. I have also heard that if you want a leadership position in the field (i.e. something like the director of school psychology for a school district), having a doctorate helps. You are also able to gain licensure in most states to practice as a "psychologist" with your own private practice. If none of these interest you as potential options, it's definitely not worth applying and doing the work for a doctorate.

PM me if you want my stats.

[psych1]

I am also applying to School Psych programs this Fall and am mainly doing Specialist programs. I was encouraged to do some PhD by my professors, but don't know if I have enough research experience or want to do that for 5 years. (the funding is attractive though) I am applying close to home unless the program states it has some funding for tuition, I just can't afford to pay tuition and R/B. You also hear conflicting info on how a PhD effects getting a job in the school system, some say they have many in their area, others say, they are "overqualified" and without working experience, can't get the director positions. I know though, it depends on where you live, the economic times and just luck sometimes.

How was your GPA? Did the schools you applied too accept only a few students, many apply as you know and sometimes it's not you, it's just they can't take any more students.

I've only done 1 research project at my small LAC and plan on 1 more next year and an honors thesis. That will be it I think. I have a volunteer job with adults with special needs but need to work at a non-psychology type job over the summer to help pay my tuition.