Research Experience

Clinical Psychology training programs were originally built according to the Boulder Model. This model stressed a balance between the research and clinical domains of training. Students were supposed to receive training in research design and statistics as well as courses in psychopathology and psychotherapy. The program usually included required research projects and an elaborate dissertation as well as formal clinical training experiences. Most faculties of Clinical Psychology programs were recruited and advanced through the academic system based upon their research productivity ("Publish or Perish"). In actual practice, the Boulder model usually meant a strong dose of research training for the first four years of graduate school and a smaller dose of clinical training during the internship year. That situation is still common today. With the development of PsyD and Counseling Psychology programs, the situation has changed dramatically and there is far less emphasis on research training in these programs.

Admissions committees selected students consistent with this model of training. PhD programs subscribing to the Boulder scientist-practitioner model focused on research experiences, interests and academic skills when selecting the incoming class of students. PsyD Clinical Psychology programs and Counseling Psychology training programs developed in the 1980s and have become very popular now. These programs emphasize clinical experience and general academic skills in their selections.

Having research experience will always help you get into any graduate school. At the least, it conveys strong academic interests in Psychology. In any undergraduate program, the best students conduct research with the faculty. Having research experiences described in your application always imparts a positive impression.

However, it is important to keep in mind that lack of research experience does not harm your application to clinically-oriented programs. It will only have a positive effect when present. When considered by research oriented programs, the lack of research experience will significantly reduce your chances of admission.

You acquire research experience by working for faculty as a research assistant. You may also work for graduate students as a research assistant but make sure to get a letter of recommendation from the supervising faculty member. The graduate student may co-sign the letter.

You find out about research opportunities in a similar way that you discover clinical opportunities: talk to fellow students, look through the department bulletin boards and meet with faculty members. One way to get research experience is to volunteer to do research in a clinical setting. Everyone on the faculty has gone through graduate training and understands the importance of research experience. They will help you get connected with someone doing research who needs your labor and interest. Be prepared to work as a volunteer. Most research positions at the undergraduate level are not paying jobs.