How are graduates of terminal master’s degree programs viewed by PhD selection committees?
Is a terminal master’s degree an advantage, disadvantage, or neither? Can earning a master’s degree compensate for a “negative” in an application (e.g., low undergraduate GPA)? Yes, a master’s degree can compensate for deficiencies in an application (e.g., a lackluster undergraduate career), but it can also serve to reinforce positive attributes about the applicant. A master’s degree can show that a student has a strong interest in and knowledge of I-O psychology and the persistence required to pursue such a degree. Any evidence that a student can do the work required in a doctoral program is looked upon favorably. However, it may not be enough to just have a master’s degree void of research experience. A student should have some indicator of research interest and skill as well. If you did not get into a PhD program, what’s the benefit of getting a master’s degree versus taking a year to retake the GRE or do research? Similar to the previous question, a master’s degree is a good choice
