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What should I do next?
I have a bachelor's degree in Health care Administration but want to pursue a career in clinical counseling/ psychology/ therapy. My GPA is below 3.0, so I don't think applying for graduate school is a good option. I want to know if I should go back to school for a BS or AS in psychology to improve my chances of getting into graduate school later.
5 answers
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi M,
There are several different paths you could take to work in counseling.
You have the option to get a bachelors and PhD in psychology to be able to treat patients.
You could also go to medical school and do your residency in psychiatry to become a psychiatrist.
Another option would be to go to nursing school with the goal to become a Mental Health Nurse and eventually a Nurse Practitioner so you can treat patients.
I hope this helps! Good luck!
KP
https://www.shiftmed.com/professionals/blog/how-to-become-a-mental-health-nurse-in-the-usa
https://www.cmich.edu/blog/all-things-higher-ed/how-to-become-a-clinical-psychologist
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/psychiatrist-education
There are several different paths you could take to work in counseling.
You have the option to get a bachelors and PhD in psychology to be able to treat patients.
You could also go to medical school and do your residency in psychiatry to become a psychiatrist.
Another option would be to go to nursing school with the goal to become a Mental Health Nurse and eventually a Nurse Practitioner so you can treat patients.
I hope this helps! Good luck!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, M !
I think that in order for you to know a path for college you should first know what career you are aiming for.
The Bachelors Degree in Healthcare Administration would not qualify you for a Psychology Masters Degree. What Bachelors Degree you should have is going to depend on what exact career you're thinking about - Mental Health Counselor, Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Social Worker, etc. When you can state the exact career position it is that you want then you can obtain advice about degrees.
My advice is to not delay your further education. Most careers doing clinical therapy require at minimum 6 years. To be a Psychiatrist you'd have to go to Medical School. To be a Psychologist you would need to have a Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate Degree. To do clinical therapy as a Social Worker takes 6 years.
An Associates in Psychology would not have many career options. With the Bachelors in Psychology, you could possibly be a social service case manager, but they do not do clinical therapy. Also with the Bachelors in Psychology and the Bachelors in Healthcare Administration, you may be able to work as a Program Manager which is always a good position but doesn't entail clinical therapy.
Your 3.0 GPA should NOT stop you from applying for a Masters Program because 3.0 is considered the normal minimum and many masters programs accept undergraduate GPAs of 3.0. You can do this ! I mentioned that you shouldn't hesitate so now is a good time to explore colleges to see what colleges have Masters programs that accept a 3.0. Do not worry about this. One college that does accept it is University of Massachusetts in Dartmouth.
All you will have to do now is situate what exact career position you want and then you will be able to know what majors and degrees you'll need to go for. I wish you all the best and hope this helps you with your plans !
I think that in order for you to know a path for college you should first know what career you are aiming for.
The Bachelors Degree in Healthcare Administration would not qualify you for a Psychology Masters Degree. What Bachelors Degree you should have is going to depend on what exact career you're thinking about - Mental Health Counselor, Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Social Worker, etc. When you can state the exact career position it is that you want then you can obtain advice about degrees.
My advice is to not delay your further education. Most careers doing clinical therapy require at minimum 6 years. To be a Psychiatrist you'd have to go to Medical School. To be a Psychologist you would need to have a Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate Degree. To do clinical therapy as a Social Worker takes 6 years.
An Associates in Psychology would not have many career options. With the Bachelors in Psychology, you could possibly be a social service case manager, but they do not do clinical therapy. Also with the Bachelors in Psychology and the Bachelors in Healthcare Administration, you may be able to work as a Program Manager which is always a good position but doesn't entail clinical therapy.
Your 3.0 GPA should NOT stop you from applying for a Masters Program because 3.0 is considered the normal minimum and many masters programs accept undergraduate GPAs of 3.0. You can do this ! I mentioned that you shouldn't hesitate so now is a good time to explore colleges to see what colleges have Masters programs that accept a 3.0. Do not worry about this. One college that does accept it is University of Massachusetts in Dartmouth.
All you will have to do now is situate what exact career position you want and then you will be able to know what majors and degrees you'll need to go for. I wish you all the best and hope this helps you with your plans !
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
M
You're welcome !
Michelle M.
Updated
Gerald J’s Answer
Take some more classes.
Maybe some peer support classes as well as psychology classes.
Gerald J Olseski Jr
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi M!
First of all, I want to say that you, thinking ahead and being strategic is great for your next steps. Transitioning into clinical counseling or psychology is absolutely possible, even with a degree in Healthcare Administration. In fact, your background could be an asset since you already have an understanding of the healthcare system.
A GPA below 3.0 does make graduate school applications more challenging, but it’s not the end of the road. Before committing to another full degree, consider taking psychology prerequisites or enrolling in a post-baccalaureate program. Some schools allow students to take psychology courses as non-degree students, which can help you boost your GPA without the time and cost of completing another bachelor's degree. Another option is to gain experience in the field by volunteering or working in mental health settings, such as crisis hotlines, behavioral health centers, or therapy offices. Hands-on experience can strengthen your grad school application and help you confirm that this is the right path for you.
You might also consider taking the GRE or other entrance exams. Some graduate programs weigh strong test scores against a lower GPA, so performing well on these exams could improve your chances. Additionally, some master's programs in counseling or psychology take a more holistic approach to admissions, focusing on experience, personal statements, and recommendations rather than just GPA.
If, after exploring these options, you still feel that earning another bachelor’s or an associate degree in psychology is the best way to build a strong foundation, then go for it, but make sure it’s truly worth the investment. Some schools may allow you to take just the psychology courses you need instead of completing an entirely new degree.
You have plenty of options, and this is not a roadblock—it’s just a detour. The key is to be strategic with your time and resources, while proving to future programs that you’re committed and capable. If you need help narrowing down the best path, I’d be happy to explore more with you. Keep going—you’re on the right track!
Best wishes!
First of all, I want to say that you, thinking ahead and being strategic is great for your next steps. Transitioning into clinical counseling or psychology is absolutely possible, even with a degree in Healthcare Administration. In fact, your background could be an asset since you already have an understanding of the healthcare system.
A GPA below 3.0 does make graduate school applications more challenging, but it’s not the end of the road. Before committing to another full degree, consider taking psychology prerequisites or enrolling in a post-baccalaureate program. Some schools allow students to take psychology courses as non-degree students, which can help you boost your GPA without the time and cost of completing another bachelor's degree. Another option is to gain experience in the field by volunteering or working in mental health settings, such as crisis hotlines, behavioral health centers, or therapy offices. Hands-on experience can strengthen your grad school application and help you confirm that this is the right path for you.
You might also consider taking the GRE or other entrance exams. Some graduate programs weigh strong test scores against a lower GPA, so performing well on these exams could improve your chances. Additionally, some master's programs in counseling or psychology take a more holistic approach to admissions, focusing on experience, personal statements, and recommendations rather than just GPA.
If, after exploring these options, you still feel that earning another bachelor’s or an associate degree in psychology is the best way to build a strong foundation, then go for it, but make sure it’s truly worth the investment. Some schools may allow you to take just the psychology courses you need instead of completing an entirely new degree.
You have plenty of options, and this is not a roadblock—it’s just a detour. The key is to be strategic with your time and resources, while proving to future programs that you’re committed and capable. If you need help narrowing down the best path, I’d be happy to explore more with you. Keep going—you’re on the right track!
Best wishes!
Thank you for taking the time to help!! These are all great options!.
M
You 're welcome!
Chinyere Okafor
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Alright, M—first off, big respect for knowing what you want and being ready to pivot!
So, switching gears from Health Care Administration to clinical counseling/psychology/therapy is totally doable—even with a GPA under 3.0. The road might have a few twists, but hey, most good journeys do. I am gonna break it apart and your options like a GPS for your career path.
🧠 Option 1: Boost Your Grad School Odds Without Another Bachelor’s
Good news—you don’t necessarily need a second bachelor’s degree to get into a psychology-related grad program. Here’s how to beef up your application without starting from scratch:
1. Take Post-Baccalaureate (Post-Bacc) Psychology Courses:
Many universities offer post-bacc programs specifically designed for career changers. These programs let you earn psychology credits without committing to a full degree.
You’ll get relevant coursework AND a chance to improve your GPA.
2. Ace the GRE (or Other Entrance Exams):
Some grad schools weigh entrance exam scores heavily—so a stellar GRE (or even the Psychology GRE Subject Test) can balance out a lower GPA.
There are great prep programs (even free ones) that can help you crush it.
3. Gain Relevant Experience:
Volunteer or work in mental health settings—think crisis hotlines, behavioral health clinics, or as a mental health technician. Hands-on experience is GOLD on your application.
Look for research assistant roles or psychology-based internships. Even part-time gigs boost your resume.
4. Craft a Killer Personal Statement:
This is your time to shine—explain why you’re passionate about clinical counseling and how your background in health care gives you a unique edge.
Be honest about your academic journey, but focus on how you’ve grown and why you’re ready for the next step.
🎓 Option 2: Should You Get a Second Degree in Psychology?
A second bachelor’s (or associate’s) could help if you need a total GPA overhaul—but it’s a big-time (and money) commitment. Consider this if:
Your GPA is super low (like below 2.5), and you need a fresh academic record.
Or, You want to immerse yourself in psychology and have the resources to invest in another degree.
And or, You’re aiming for a very competitive graduate program.
💡 Now M, if you go towards this route, a second bachelor’s is more respected than an associate’s for grad school. But honestly, a targeted post-bacc program often does the job faster and more efficiently.
📚 Option 3: Explore Master’s Programs with Flexible Requirements
Not all grad programs are GPA gatekeepers! Look into bridge programs or Master’s in Counseling or Psychology programs that:
Weigh Experience More Heavily: Some schools prioritize real-world experience and personal statements over GPA.
Offer Provisional Admission: Certain programs accept students on a conditional basis—prove yourself in your first semester, and you’re golden.
Consider Online/Hybrid Programs: Some accredited online master’s programs are more flexible about admissions. Look for APA or CACREP accreditation if you want to become a licensed therapist.
🔥You don’t have to hit the reset button with a whole new degree. Focus on boosting your psychology knowledge, gaining practical experience, and showing admissions committees how dedicated and capable you are.
If you want specific program suggestions or advice on crafting a standout personal statement—just holler. You got this M, all the best pal!
Research Post-Bacc or Individual Psychology Classes: Find a program that fits your schedule. Many universities allow you to take these as a “non-degree” student.
Gain Hands-On Mental Health Experience: Start volunteering or working in the field—experience can outweigh a GPA. In the field work ethic drives ahead.
Reach out to grad programs directly. Explain your background and ask how to improve your odds—they’ll often give you inside tips!
Don’t assume your GPA is a dealbreaker—many programs value the whole package.
So, switching gears from Health Care Administration to clinical counseling/psychology/therapy is totally doable—even with a GPA under 3.0. The road might have a few twists, but hey, most good journeys do. I am gonna break it apart and your options like a GPS for your career path.
🧠 Option 1: Boost Your Grad School Odds Without Another Bachelor’s
Good news—you don’t necessarily need a second bachelor’s degree to get into a psychology-related grad program. Here’s how to beef up your application without starting from scratch:
1. Take Post-Baccalaureate (Post-Bacc) Psychology Courses:
Many universities offer post-bacc programs specifically designed for career changers. These programs let you earn psychology credits without committing to a full degree.
You’ll get relevant coursework AND a chance to improve your GPA.
2. Ace the GRE (or Other Entrance Exams):
Some grad schools weigh entrance exam scores heavily—so a stellar GRE (or even the Psychology GRE Subject Test) can balance out a lower GPA.
There are great prep programs (even free ones) that can help you crush it.
3. Gain Relevant Experience:
Volunteer or work in mental health settings—think crisis hotlines, behavioral health clinics, or as a mental health technician. Hands-on experience is GOLD on your application.
Look for research assistant roles or psychology-based internships. Even part-time gigs boost your resume.
4. Craft a Killer Personal Statement:
This is your time to shine—explain why you’re passionate about clinical counseling and how your background in health care gives you a unique edge.
Be honest about your academic journey, but focus on how you’ve grown and why you’re ready for the next step.
🎓 Option 2: Should You Get a Second Degree in Psychology?
A second bachelor’s (or associate’s) could help if you need a total GPA overhaul—but it’s a big-time (and money) commitment. Consider this if:
Your GPA is super low (like below 2.5), and you need a fresh academic record.
Or, You want to immerse yourself in psychology and have the resources to invest in another degree.
And or, You’re aiming for a very competitive graduate program.
💡 Now M, if you go towards this route, a second bachelor’s is more respected than an associate’s for grad school. But honestly, a targeted post-bacc program often does the job faster and more efficiently.
📚 Option 3: Explore Master’s Programs with Flexible Requirements
Not all grad programs are GPA gatekeepers! Look into bridge programs or Master’s in Counseling or Psychology programs that:
Weigh Experience More Heavily: Some schools prioritize real-world experience and personal statements over GPA.
Offer Provisional Admission: Certain programs accept students on a conditional basis—prove yourself in your first semester, and you’re golden.
Consider Online/Hybrid Programs: Some accredited online master’s programs are more flexible about admissions. Look for APA or CACREP accreditation if you want to become a licensed therapist.
🔥You don’t have to hit the reset button with a whole new degree. Focus on boosting your psychology knowledge, gaining practical experience, and showing admissions committees how dedicated and capable you are.
If you want specific program suggestions or advice on crafting a standout personal statement—just holler. You got this M, all the best pal!
Dr recommends the following next steps:
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