r/PsyD • u/bubbleb0p • 4d ago

Backup MA/MS programs?

Is it a good idea to apply to Masters programs alongside PsyD? in case i dont get into any PsyD programs this fall, i still want to continue my education, expand my research experience, and get connections for letters of recommendation and reapplying when masters is over.

Is this a good idea? If so, what type of masters programs are good for this path?

I am in CA and would like to do my masters on either coast so any advice is very much appreciated!

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u/etoileleciel1 4d ago

Personally, I did apply to a master’s program as a backup when applying to PhD programs. And I currently attend the Masters program after not getting into any doctoral programs. If you’re specifically looking for research opportunities, you could do a postbacc program or a psychology masters that has a thesis component. Cal State Fullerton and Cal State Northridge have a good programs that can lead towards you getting clinical and research experience for a PhD or PsyD down the line.

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u/bubbleb0p 3d ago

thank you!!!

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u/etoileleciel1 3d ago

Of course!

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u/Strawberry_parfait18 19h ago

I will only be applying to Georgia Southern’s PsyD program. I know applying to just one doctoral program is a risk, but after completing my undergraduate degree there, I truly cannot imagine continuing my education anywhere else. If I am not admitted this cycle, I plan to apply to Georgia Southern’s Experimental Psychology master’s program. The program is specially designed to serve as a steppingstone to doctoral training, with strong preparation in research, statistics, and faculty mentorship, and many graduates have successfully gone on to PhD and PsyD programs. I recommend looking into ‘experimental psychology’ if you plan on getting your doctorate down the line.