Help Me! (Stay in my program or get out now?)

[HelpMeImLost]

Here is the deal. I am currently in an EdS (SSP / MA,CAGS / Specialist) level school psychology program. I have realized that ultimately I want the PsyD in school psychology. I want it for a number of reasons. The point is, I have realized that this is the degree that I want and not just the EdS. So now that I realize this, I have been contemplating whether or not to stay in my EdS program. The program is 3 years long (including internship). I am just trying to figure out if it is worth it to stay for the next 3 years or if it would be better to leave my program at the end of the semester and apply for doctoral programs. I am looking more into a PsyD than a PhD because of where my interests lie (not in research).

 

I know that I could stay and complete my program, get the EdS degree, and then apply for the PsyD after. The downside to that would be that many programs will only transfer a small portion of my coursework from the EdS into the doctoral, some programs require that everyone start at year 1 no matter what. So for me, that would essentially mean that I have wasted a lot of time and I would have to spend 5 or 6 more years in school for the doctoral degree, in addition to the 3 years I am spending for the specialist degree. But, on the other hand, a few programs that I have seen give advanced standing if you have a specialist degree. In that case, I would only have to spend 3 or 4 more years in school after getting the specialist degree. There is a world of difference between 3 more years of school and 6 more years of school for me. I also don't really like the location of my current specialist level program. I thought I would love it beforehand, but now I realize that I don't. I can endure for 2 years and then go elsewhere for my internship, but it's still not ideal. Also, if I leave now, I would be able to save myself some money.

 

In contrast, If I leave my program now, I would potentially be able to save myself a lot of time and many doctoral programs allow you to earn the specialist level degree along the way anyway. The problem with leaving is potentially damaging my reputation. I don't know if any doctoral program will take me if they find out i left my specialist program. Also, there is the little problem of needing recommendations to apply to a doctoral program. I don't know if any of my professors will recommend me if I quit the program.

 

I am just so uncertain about this whole thing. What should I do here?

 

 

[doctor-to-be]

if you're in the extreme beginning of this program, get out. if you're way too deep into it, stick it out. 

[Heavensmaiden]

I agree with Doctor to be. I am in the Ed.s I actually got in without wanting to get in ( very long story). I am reapplying to different Ph.D programs that have a focus on research. Since this is my first semester I don't feel bad about leaving but if I were on my second year I would not reapply. I am planning on resubmitting on my third year if I don't get in this round. 

[sackofcrap]

17 hours ago, Heavensmaiden said:

I agree with Doctor to be. I am in the Ed.s I actually got in without wanting to get in ( very long story). I am reapplying to different Ph.D programs that have a focus on research. Since this is my first semester I don't feel bad about leaving but if I were on my second year I would not reapply. I am planning on resubmitting on my third year if I don't get in this round. 

I would think it would be hard to do this without offending your professors in the process! 

[Heavensmaiden]

7 hours ago, sackofcrap said:

I would think it would be hard to do this without offending your professors in the process! 

I was thinking it and my professor suggested it.