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How much research based work is in clinical psychology compared to practical skills and experience?
As an arts focused student how much of the sciences and maths will be used rather than pure skills and experience. What degree do you suggest I major in (please give me specific names)
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Annah’s Answer
Aleeza, I will do my best to answer this. I have an MA degree, not a doctorate. But I do know a few things I can share. In an MA graduate program, you will take at least two quarters of research. My program was taught in quarters; I am not sure how a semester-organized school would work (re: total credits). I also attended a CACREP accredited school; this means there are certain benchmarks every student will need to meet to graduate. In these foundational courses, you learn about the purpose and importance of research, research with human subjects, ethics of research, and the types of research- qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-study. In a nutshell, quantitative involves math; you are working with numbers and percentages. Qualitative is more narrative in its approach. My degree required participation in a self-designed research project; mine involved art therapy body mapping with breast cancer survivors. It was qualitative- so I was interested in the participant's personal story. To work with human subjects, you have to submit your idea to a board for approval. Once you are approved, you can start work. My project culminated in a 100 (or so) page paper. In psychology you will learn the APA style of writing and how to write as a researcher- there are some specific guidelines. But you will be coached along the way and have an advisor for this very purpose! As for doctoral degrees, there are two routes- PhD or PsyD. Both will give you the assigned, "Dr." designation. A PhD program will be more research heavy. A PsyD program will be focused more on looking at previous research and clinical practice. Depending on where your interests lie, you can choose the appropriate program. The world definitely needs more people interested in quantitative work! I happen to fall into the more qualitative side; it is simply how my brain works. If you are unsure where you stand at this moment, it is okay. Regarding your question about experiential work, any graduate program in psychology or counseling will have you engaging in your own therapy (with a mental health professional), and constantly taking part in fishbowls or dyads- where you take on a client or counselor role with another student. This is a field of study that is part academic, and part personal growth. You will be learning about yourself, your family, the systems that you live in, and all the influential forces impacting who you have become. You will also complete internships at sites of your choosing. Lots of hands-on experience! As an undergrad, you can study psychology but fun fact, I did not take one undergrad course in psych! I studied fine arts. I did have to complete pre-requisites before applying for my MA (3). A well-rounded student is a great candidate; follow your interests and you will land where you are meant to be!
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Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Aleeza,
In clinical psychology, there is a significant emphasis on both research-based work and practical skills and experience. Clinical psychologists are trained to not only understand the theoretical foundations of psychology, but also to apply this knowledge in real-world clinical settings. Research plays a crucial role in shaping the field of clinical psychology, as it informs evidence-based practices and interventions.
As an arts-focused student considering a major in psychology, you will likely encounter some level of science and math coursework, particularly in statistics and research methods. However, the focus of your degree will primarily be on developing your skills and understanding of human behavior through psychological theory and practical application.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in clinical psychology, consider majoring in either Psychology or Clinical Psychology at the undergraduate level. These specific programs will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for further specialization or graduate studies in clinical psychology.
Best wishes.
In clinical psychology, there is a significant emphasis on both research-based work and practical skills and experience. Clinical psychologists are trained to not only understand the theoretical foundations of psychology, but also to apply this knowledge in real-world clinical settings. Research plays a crucial role in shaping the field of clinical psychology, as it informs evidence-based practices and interventions.
As an arts-focused student considering a major in psychology, you will likely encounter some level of science and math coursework, particularly in statistics and research methods. However, the focus of your degree will primarily be on developing your skills and understanding of human behavior through psychological theory and practical application.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in clinical psychology, consider majoring in either Psychology or Clinical Psychology at the undergraduate level. These specific programs will provide you with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for further specialization or graduate studies in clinical psychology.
Best wishes.