Improving Undergraduate Psychology Students’ Understanding of the Graduate School Application Process

Abstract

Background More students with a bachelor’s degree in psychology are seeking graduate studies, though many lack knowledge about the admission process. Objective We created a brief educational presentation to increase student knowledge of the application process, positive outcome expectations for obtaining a master’s degree in psychology, and intention to apply. Method We recruited N = 55 undergraduate psychology majors at a public university in Texas. We randomly assigned participants to either a 52-min written or video version of the educational presentation. Results Repeated measures analysis of variance revealed that participants increased their positive outcome expectations for a master’s degree in psychology and increased their perceived knowledge of the application process. Our qualitative content analysis revealed improvements in participants’ objective knowledge of what to include in a curriculum vitae and personal statement, who to ask for a letter of recommendation, and what resources exist for funding graduate school. Conclusions Professors could consider using evidence-based, brief educational presentations in mentoring undergraduate students on career goals including graduate study in psychology. Teaching Implications Additional training may be required to help educational professionals to incorporate evidence-based career planning during key stages of students’ undergraduate psychology study.