M.A. in general or experimental psychology

AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETION: 2 years 
FUNDING: Pay out of pocket, student loans; some research/teaching assistantships

DETAILS
  • Research training – conduct basic research and write thesis
  • Goal is to gain more research experience and statistical training to help prepare for PhD programs.
TYPICAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
  • Much less competitive than PhD programs
  • Good grades + 3 letters of reference
  • Previous research experience helpful, but not necessary
TYPICAL CAREER OPTIONS
  • Can conduct statistical analysis for industry or government.
  • Helpful to gain experience to apply for PhD programs

PHD in psychology (any subfield)

AVERAGE TIME TO COMPLETION: 4-6 years and possible post-doctoral internship
FUNDING: Tuition waived; receive stipends for research or teaching assistantships

DETAILS
  • Research training – conduct basic research and write dissertation
  • Goal is to publish peer-reviewed research
  • Gain some training in teaching/mentoring
TYPICAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
  • Highly competitive 
  • Competitive GRE scores (155 or better)
  • Strong GPA + 3 letters of reference
  • Previous research experience
TYPICAL CAREER OPTIONS
  • College Professor: Can conduct research and teach at college-level.
  • Researcher: Conduct research for industry or government.

This Guide to Applying to the PhD has great tips on creating a successful application!