Frequently Asked Questions

Graduate

Can I get a masters degree in Psychology?

The School of Psychology does not offer a terminal masters program. A master's degree is earned en route to a doctorate degree. However, the College of Computing offers a master's degree in Human Factors.

Can I enroll in the graduate program part-time?

No. You must be a full-time student, that is, enroll in at least 12 hours per semester.

What about the GRE?

The GRE General Test is required for most graduate programs and you also have to submit your GRE General Test scores when you apply to the School of Psychology. We do not have strict cut-off scores because we consider the application as a whole.

The GRE General Test can be taken in a paper and pencil version or a computer-adaptive version. The paper and pencil test is given on 3 dates during the year (April, October, and December); however, the computer-adaptive is available almost any day you wish to schedule it.

A GRE Subject Test is desired but not required for the Industrial/Organizational Psychology program.

For more information call (609) 771-7670 to request a bulletin with information on registering for the test, visit the GRE website at http://www.gre.org, or pick up a bulletin at either Graduate Studies Office at Georgia Tech:

• 120 Savant Bldg. or Room 4 Administration Building
• Most academic departments
• Career services resource library in the Success Center

What is a Graduate Assistantship?

In most research-oriented universities, the predominant means of support for graduate students comes from assistantships. An assistantship usually involves a reduction in tuition and fees and also stipend. The amount varies from department to department.

Generally, a Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) may grade tests, run a laboratory, review, or discussion section for a professor, or teach an introductory level course.

A Graduate Research Assistant (GRA) participates in a faculty member's research. The work will vary: it may be coding data, doing laboratory tests, designing computer programs to support the research, or doing library research. The research skills and knowledge a GRA develops often leads to the student's own master's or doctoral research.

How do I get a Graduate Assistantship?

Initially you must indicate on your application that you would like to be considered for assistantship. In most cases you will work in Psychology; however, you may seek an assistantship in another department if you are qualified.

Is it difficult to obtain an assistantship in the School of Psychology?

We make every attempt to provide financial assistance to all incoming graduate students in Psychology. We believe the opportunities gained through an assistantship are vital to a successful graduate experience.

Once I have a Graduate Assistantship, who handles my paperwork?

Your department is responsible for making sure your status is correct and that you are assessed the proper fees. The Graduate Studies Office verifies your status and fees.

Once a Graduate Assistant, always a Graduate Assistant?

No, some students are appointed for an academic year and others are appointed semester-by-semester.

How many hours do I have to enroll in if I'm a Graduate Assistant?

To receive reduced fees you must register for at least 12 credit hours per semester:

• either 12 hours letter grade or pass/fail, or
• 9 hours letter grade or pass/fail and 3 hours of audit.

Where is the Graduate Studies Office?

Graduate Studies at Georgia Tech is physically located in three different offices:

1. Graduate Academic & Enrollment Services: Administration Building (Tech Tower), Room 4
2. Graduate Co-op and Fellowship Programs: Savant Building, Room 120
3. Graduate Office: Savant Building, Room 130

I have a question but am not sure who to ask?

Send all questions to

What if I make a C or a D in class? Does it still count?

For required courses, you must earn an A or a B to pass. If you earn a C or lower, you must retake the course.

How do I register for courses? And what courses should I register for?

First-year students will receive an introduction during orientation.

How long does it take to get my Ph.D.?

Doctoral and master's candidates share a core curriculum in general psychology and quantitative methods. Most students require a minimum of three calendar years to complete the course requirements and thesis. The doctoral program consists of additional coursework, programs of individual study, and research culminating in the dissertation. Most students entering the program with a bachelor's degree require at least five years to complete a doctoral degree.