New2Neuropsychology

What is a terminal Masters degree?

A terminal Masters degree is a graduate degree that does not directly lead into doctoral coursework. This is in contrast to an “en route Masters degree,” which is obtained as part of doctoral studies. Terminal Masters degrees in psychology typically requires a bachelor’s in psychology or related field (human services, counseling, biology), or substantive coursework in these areas. Many Masters programs also require a general and/or psychology GRE.

Masters programs in psychology are not currently accredited, but may be in the future. Programs can be MA or MS, and it’s OK to have a range of specializations (i.e., some degrees are in health psychology vs. clinical psychology, biological psychology/biopsychology, experimental psychology, or even general psychology).

How do I choose a Masters program?

Look for programs that are affiliated with known private or state universities/colleges and that have a smaller class size (20 or less). For-profit programs that enroll large amounts of students (more than 20 per year) are not ideal because you may get less individualized mentoring and support.

When choosing a Masters program, look at the coursework offered and not just the type of degree. Is there a cognitive psychology course? Social Psychology? Developmental psychology? Abnormal psychology? Statistics and research methods? 

You also want to consider the research involved. Is a thesis required? Is this thesis a literature review, program development, or actual original research? The latter is preferred, as this experience will make you more competitive when applying to doctoral programs. 

Exposure to clinical work, such as in a Clinical Counseling Masters program, is great, but not necessarily a requirement. 

What else should I know about terminal Masters degrees?

In the final semester of your Masters program, or after graduating, you would then apply to doctoral programs. Keep in mind that some coursework or research requirements must be repeated. Keep all syllabi, and a copy of your thesis; you can submit these for credit consideration at your doctoral program.

Because previous research experience is often a requirement to apply to doctoral programs in clinical psychology, getting experience as a paid researcher is a great way to spend your gap year(s). Possible job titles include Research Assistant, Research Coordinator, or Lab Manager.

Looking for a paid research position? Check out the predoctoral psych jobs wiki, the post-grad lab positions wiki, and the PREDOC full-time job postings page. Paid research positions are also often posted on general recruiting websites such as Indeed and Glassdoor.

Find additional post-baccalaureate research opportunities here:

1. NIH Post-Bac Program: https://www.training.nih.gov/research-training/pb/pb
2. MINDS Program: https://med.umn.edu/neuroscience/diversity-inclusion/training-career-research

Clinical experience can be difficult to acquire prior to entering graduate school. Consider the following opportunities to gain clinical experience as an undergraduate student or post-bacc:

1. Opportunities for clinical research positions:
   1. Consider the aspects of post-baccalaureate research roles that are more clinical in nature (e.g., direct testing and interviewing for research protocols; interfacing with families as part of research recruitment and retention)
   2. Don’t be afraid to ask about opportunities for shadowing clinical services as you are first getting exposed to clinical work/clinical neuropsychology! Think about specific clinical opportunities you may be interested in shadowing (e.g., clinical interviewing and testing), which can help you gain exposure to clinical work before entering graduate school
2. Explore whether your undergraduate degree program has opportunities for clinical internships that provide class credit
3. Consider post-bacc jobs that provide clinical experiences, such as:
   1. Psychometrist
   2. Medical, psychological, and neuropsychological clinic coordintor
   3. Therapeutic staff support/behavioral technician
   4. Aide in a special education school
   5. Think about consulting with your university’s career center or talk with psychology course professors for opportunities in your area! Other ways to learn about job openings include through LinkedIn, Indeed, and Twitter/X (including our @New2Neuropsych Twitter/X account!)
4. Consider different volunteer opportunities that can provide clinical experience:
   1. Volunteering at summer camps for children with complex medical conditions and/or their siblings (e.g., through local YMCA programs)
   2. Volunteering at senior living communities
   3. Volunteer programs at local hospitals or psychological service centers
   4. Volunteering with university/college-based student mental health groups or wellness programming
5. Consider opportunities you may have to shadow clinicians/neuropsychologists (e.g., ask your professors if they know any clinicians who are willing to take on students for shadowing opportunities to learn more about clinical work)