Tressa's Collected Resources for Finding Graduate Programs
Databases of Grad Programs in Human Service Areas
These databases may not reflect newer programs that are in or have recently been accredited.
My Big 5
- Grades: Competitive graduate programs are looking for 3.7 ish GPA. Other schools require above a 3.0 or 3.2 GPA. So, focusing on your GPA and keeping grades up is really important. Most graduate programs are looking at the GPA on your last 60 credits.
- Test Scores: Some programs require the GRE or MAT exam. However, some programs do not require a graduate exam for entrance. For those that do, most require 40th percentile or higher. You can register for the GRE at GRE.org. You can register for the MAT at https://career-services.usu.edu/testing/testing-center. Magoosh makes some great study Apps that you can download for free to help you prepare for the exam. Test prep books are also available on Amazon or other bookseller sites.
- Outside of Class Experience: Graduate programs are looking for experience, both research and applied. Research work could include working with a professor or graduate student on their research, working with a mentor/faculty member on a research question you have, data collection and entry, and other experiences. Applied work is hands-on, working directly with people/animals/subjects. This could include conducting surveys, observing behavior, following a behavioral plan/system, overseeing groups, etc. You will have an opportunity to be involved in both research and applied work in your Psy 4950: Apprenticeship course or other Independent experience Psychology courses.
- Letters of Recommendation: Most programs ask for 3 letters of recommendation with at least 2 of these being written by someone with a PhD. You should get to know the person you are asking for a letter. This might be someone who oversaw you in a research or applied experience or someone that you work for. Letters should address your academic ability, your potential to succeed in graduate school. You should request your letters well in advance of when you need them. I recommend preparing a packet for the letter writer that includes: a copy of your vita, a copy of your statement of intent, a copy of your transcript, the date you need the letter by, and any other information that will help the writer compose a strong, positive letter of recommendation for you. Most programs will have your letter writer submit the letter electronically. Be sure you have the contact information for your letter writers when you fill out the online application.
- Statement of Intent/Vita: Prepare an up-to-date, well-written copy of your statement and vita. Remember that the vita should only include material that is pertinent to your educational and professional goals. Do not include that summer job working in fast food or anything like that. Your statement of Intent should reflect you…on paper. It should include what your educational and professional goals are, what you have done to prepare so far for these goals (i.e. education, research, volunteer work), and how you plan to achieve these goals moving forward. Have someone who is unfamiliar with your experiences read over your papers. They will catch any holes in the statement better than someone who know how to fill in the gaps.
Other things...
- Research graduate programs you are interested in
- Make contact with faculty in the programs you are interested in applying to
- Decide on a specific area you are interested in (i.e. Counseling, School, Behavior Analysis, Social)
- Review admission requirements for programs you are interested in
- If feasible, visit the school location to see if it is a good fit for you
- Email with students currently in the program for their feedback
- Ask about teaching/research assistantships availability
- Research your financial aid options.