Introduction: I've been a lurker for about 2 years on this board. I am a working software developer in a small IT department. I foresee a need (gut feel mostly) to improve my career options as the world changes around me at a breakneck pace. Most of my questions have been answered by previous posts. This forum is an incredible blessing and the participants have much knowledge to draw upon! I have a question about degree choice: I have a few options to prepare for my uncertain future and spend some time learning in a "validated" environment: 1. MSCS My true love is computer science (but I have to take at least 4 prerequisites for the hardcore programs, doggoneit-- courses that I'm way past but don't have in my transcript!). Computer science/IT jobs leave one stuck in cubicle land unless one is entrepreneur-minded. I currently work in this field. Softcore Information Technology programs are not going to satisfy me. I am mostly interested in the science of computing, not so much its application in the business world (in which I already have a lot of experience). 2. Law school My practical mind says study the law because our country will have opportunities for lawyers and salesmen only, eventually. I've read a legal tome or two in case books and while some is boring, some is pretty interesting. I am aware of the positive and negative issues of distance learning law. 3. Psychology (what my undergrad degree is in) and get an MS and PhD in Psych. My only other interest is psychology, and I could handle being a counselor of some sort for the rest of my life, and aging would be of benefit in this area (I'm 37 now). I'd be very good at it. Probably great at it. The problem is I can't seem to choose. I am equally attracted to all three (but a little more so toward computer field). Any ideas? Advice? Please be aware that I have been trying to figure this out for going on !!3 years!! now and I'm nowhere. I tried a few MBA courses at a non-distance learning and distance learning venue (Blegh! I hate finance/accounting and I find MBA stuff boring); tried self-study of the CS prerequisites in math (hardly anyone offers cheap online/correspondence classes in math and upper level undergrad CS). I could easily put the three options on a board and toss a dart and see where it lands, but I thought asking people who are actually pursuing degrees might be better to try first. Thanks for any assistance you can provide.
Computer Science.......Are there really any jobs in computer science left in the US? Sure, it's a cubicle job, but a cubicle in what country?...India? DL Law.......Do you live in California or plan on moving to California in the near future? If not, then DL Law is probably not a good career move. Psychology......This might be a real possibility. If memory serves correct, I believe that there are several APA accredited DL psychology programs out there. This is probably your best bet. DISCLAIMER: This is my opinion only. Your mileage may vary.
This is an excellent point, and is why I'm considering #2 and #3 options. I've done some thorough research on DL Law and I've lived in California. I have plans to go back there and I have family there. Is there a link to a list of APA Psych programs? My biggest concern about this option is getting the credits for doing actual counseling residency. As I understand it, to get the most out of the degree I should set up some actual counseling "practicums" or something so I can get real work when I'm done with the studies....? Also, can I make a living at psychology? I want something rather independent, less attached to corporate world, if possible.
It is frustrating that I can't find a simple list of requirements to be a licensed practicing psychologist in my state. So far Ive found this info:
I wish I understood this concretely (nobody else seems to want to put this through a blender and summarize it) : http://www.dpr.state.il.us/WHO/ar/psych.asp
Engineering Psychology Alternative- combine engineering/CS with psychology such as: http://www.outreach.uidaho.edu/eo/ViewPage.aspx?pid=39 Or this one (on campus only unfortunately): http://www-psych.nmsu.edu/areas/engineering.html
Re: Engineering Psychology Thank you, Mike. I think I'm very interested in cognitive psych as applied in artificial intelligence. I wonder what kind of career I could have in that, however.
OK, here's a bit of a reality slap regarding the clinical psychology option. The first thing is that a 37 year old computer guy with an old psychology BA and no experience in the field is not exactly a top candidate for a Clinical PhD program. Don't simply assume that you'll gain admission. These programs are competitive and most applicants have either Psych work experience, Psych grad degrees or both. Second, you don't really need an APA accredited program (Fielding is the only one by the way so there's your list). You need to find out what the regs are where you plan to live/work. APA accreditation is not typically required for licensure. Third, practicums, internships, whatever they are called by the school, are not just nice to do, they are required. The school will explain. Fourth, these programs are not cheap and most people pile up some considerable debt before they're through. The pay for a rookie PhD (who doesn't yet have his license to practice independently) is not that high. Most programs are 4-5 years (for someone in your position). Proceed with caution. If I were you I'd go to the nearest B&M university that has a Clinical Psych PhD program and ask them a whole bunch of questions. The answers will not differ substantially from those you'd get from the DL schools. Staying in computers is probably the easiest option. I'd forget the DL law school option and find an ABA law school that has an "evenings/weekends" program and go ask them a whole bunch of questions too. In any case, good luck. Jack
Sorry AB but that seems like a pretty simple list of requirements to me. What part of it is unclear? Jack
I would want a list of schools on that document that says yea or nay on acceptability. Too many subclauses and conditionals.
I resent being called a "computer guy". Software development requires some pretty decent ability to think. They'll accept me. Anyway, why would one want to choose a career based on the "path of least resistance"?
Yes, that would be nice. The main problem, I think, is that much of this depends on licensing requirements which vary from state to state. For the most part, if you choose an RA school then you'll be OK. The fact is, however, that it's a complicated issue and can't be fully described in an uncomplicated manner. As for the admissions issues, I meant no disrespect, you may be a great candidate. If you're seriously considering this option, you could begin by just taking a graduate level course or two. You can usually transfer a small handfull of credits upon admission and your good grades would serve as positive indicators of your future work. Good luck. Jack
