VALUE OF A MASTERS-DEGREE FOR GAINING ADMISSION TO DOCTORAL PROGRAMS IN PSYCHOLOGY

American Psychological Association-accredited clinical doctor of philo sophy (PhD), clinical doctor of psychology (PsyD), counseling, and sch ool psychology doctoral programs were surveyed to assess the importanc e placed on various admission criteria, including having a master's de gree in clinical psychology. In addition, potential benefits of obtain ing a master's degree before enrolling in a doctoral program were asse ssed. Results indicated that clinical PhD programs view a terminal mas ter's degree significantly more negatively than do the other programs. Benefits for terminal master's degree holders included credit transfe r and, for those pursuing a PsyD, a more positive view toward the PsyD degree by some academicians. Although all programs reported Graduate Record Examination combined scores, undergraduate grades, and letters of recommendation as clearly important criteria when making admissions decisions, differences were found across programs in the value placed on research experience, journal publication, and work and life experi ence.