Lack of psych research

[G127V]

I am a non-traditional applicant, I have 4+ years research experience in neuroscience and pharmacology and my combined GRE is 320+ GPA is 3.8. Is there a reasonable chance of me getting into a clinical psych PhD program? Will my lack of psych research automatically disqualify me, should I try a terminal masters program instead?

[pataka]

I'm in a similar boat, but with fewer years of experience. May I ask which field your Bachelor's degree is in?

I've been told that overall, it's the fact that you have research experience at all (and therefore, have research skills) that matters; it matters less that it's not clinical psych-specific. As long as you're able to explain why you want to pursue clinical psych, and you have a good SoP and good LoRs, you should be fine.

[G127V]

My bachelor's is in biology and my MA is in bio-molecular science. My LOR are all good but only one is from a clinical psychologist. I'm hoping that proving that I enjoy research and can function in a lab will be enough.

[pataka]

15 minutes ago, G127V said:

My bachelor's is in biology and my MA is in bio-molecular science. My LOR are all good but only one is from a clinical psychologist. I'm hoping that proving that I enjoy research and can function in a lab will be enough.

Enjoying research and being a good, functional lab member are both really important attributes for acceptance! One thing I might suggest is trying to get some volunteer experience closer to your field of interest. Also, since your degree isn't in psychology - have you taken enough psychology courses to qualify to apply? Many clinical psych programs have specific course requirements for applicants with degrees outside of the field.

[G127V]

I have just enough psych courses plus behavioral neuro ones and took the psych GRE as well, not sure if that will help. If it doesn't work out this cycle I will definitely look to get some experience closer to my area of interest (neuropsychology, neurodegenerative disorders).