In the last few years, a psychology justice degree has earned a vast popularity. In fact, in recent times it has actually turned out to be one of the most admired degree programs in the United States. Today attaining a degree in psychology actually matters a lot as there are many career opportunities in psychology. Moreover, earning a top psychology degree can even lead to a very rewarding and highly paid career.
These days, there are various degrees available in different fields of psychology like bachelor, master and diploma that are offered by various psychology schools. Many schools even offer online degree programs. However, today choosing the best and right psychology school can at times be as tricky as picking the right psychology degree program. Though, with a clear understanding of area you wish to choose to earn your specialization, your selection might turn simpler, but there are certain prerequisites that you must meet or need to aware of before getting into a psychology school.
Generally, every psychology school looks at number of factors in selecting students before admitting. The ultimate aim is to choose and pick students who are likely to have the aptitude and skills vital to complete their program. No doubt, every school has its own selection criteria, but the most important factors that most psychology schools in the United States typically look at or place most emphasis are:
Grades in college: Almost every psychology school offering different psychology program in the U.S look for candidates who must score above a minimum GPA. Therefore as a student, you need to have above minimum GPA. Lower than the minimum GPA will not let you get into a psychology school. While doctoral programs look for a minimum of a 3.2, master’s degree programs cutoffs are around 2.7 to 3.0.
Graduate Record Examination Scores: Most schools require you to take the GRE general (aptitude) test and the GRE subject area test in psychology. The GRE general (aptitude) section is usually available in both in the traditional paper-and-pencil version and an individual administered computer form given at Sylvan Learning Centers. You need to appear for GRE test and must try to earn a good score.
Letters of Recommendation: Letter of recommendation is yet another important element that acts as a selection criteria. It play a very helpful role especially for selection committee when there are situations that need to be explained or specific accomplishments that may not be apparent from your application materials. Therefore, it is very important for you present you “‘Letters of recommendation”, mentioning about all of your positive aspects, both extracurricular and academic.
Experience: You just cannot ignore you research or work experience if you are really planning to get into a best school. You research or work experience can really provide an extra attention over other applicants. So it is important for you to show the proper proof of your experience. Especially if you are looking at a research-intensive program, the school might require candidate who have been involved in earlier research.
When you have decided to opt for a career in psychology, you should be particular about the training and the prerequisites before choosing the right school. All you need is to follow the basics mentioned above, which in turn may help you to get into a right psychology school.