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Personal Statement for Graduate School Examples: Psychology

A student smiling while holding a pen and writing a personal statmement

Why Strong Personal Statements are so Important for Graduate School

In your psychology graduate degree application, the personal statement is crucial. It showcases your academic achievements, personal journey, career goals, and why you’re a great fit for the program. This is your chance to move beyond mere statistics—GPA, test scores, work experience—and tell your unique story. Crafting a compelling personal statement requires insight, precision, and guidance. However, finding quality personal statement for graduate school examples can be challenging. Magoosh is committed to supporting graduate applications with detailed analyses, specific feedback, and comprehensive support throughout the admissions process.

Spotlight on Successful Psychology Personal Statements

We’re excited to showcase two standout personal statement for graduate school examples covering two different psychology tracks. The first, used to apply to Columbia University, explores the therapeutic power of storytelling in the aftermath of trauma and the writer’s dedication to studying the pathways from traumatic experiences to psychopathology. This essay seamlessly weaves together the applicant’s academic pursuits and professional experiences, underlining a deep-seated commitment to understanding and fostering resilience and growth post-trauma.

psychology personal statement for resume

Second, written for UC Berkeley, takes us on a captivating journey—from volunteering in Haiti to navigating the urban complexity of New York, and finally, to a meaningful role in tutoring across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. This narrative eloquently captures the author’s evolving insight into the significant role counseling plays in psychological well-being and the drive to effect change within the psychology field.

psychology personal statement for resume

Examples with Expert Annotated Feedback

Our feedback on each personal statement highlights strengths, suggests improvements, and offers strategic advice to boost the essay’s impact and emotional appeal. This feedback reflects our thorough grasp of the admissions process and our dedication to helping candidates refine their narratives.

Now explore our personal statements and expert commentary for inspiration on your application narratives. Whether starting your essay or finalizing it, our resources, expertise, and support guide you through the admissions journey.

Finally, our aim is to help you create a personal statement that surpasses admissions expectations, compellingly showcasing your unique story. Explore our blog for further tips, inspirational success stories, and expert advice , and move forward in your graduate school journey with confidence. Our platform is your ally in turning your graduate school aspirations into achievements.

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5 Psychology Resume Examples Developed for 2024

Stephen Greet

Psychology Resume

  • Psychology Resumes by Experience
  • Psychology Resumes by Role
  • Write Your Psychology Resume

How are you putting that psychology degree to use: Mental health counselor? School counselor? No matter what your role is, you’re there to provide a listening ear and educated, well-backed responses to help guide your patients in the right direction.

But are you confident that your psychology resume template will help cover the requirements of the specific role you seek?

Take a deep breath! We’ve been helping people in psychology-related fields for years. We have five psychology resume examples ready to prepare you for your job hunt. And to top it all off with a perfect job application, try our ai cover letter generator .

or download as PDF

Psychology resume example with 9 years of experience

Why this resume works

  • Since many roles require a Doctor of Psychology to be considered, present your impressive education prominently below your name on your psychology resume.

Psychology Major Resume

Psychology major resume example with tutoring experience

  • That’s where previous internships and college projects make their resounding entry into a psychology major resume. Let’s say you’re currently working as a remote tutor. Recount an instance when you tapped into your psychology know-how to identify learning gaps among your students and execute targeted interventions.

Clinical Psychology Resume

Clinical psychology resume example with 6 years of experience

  • Credentials validate your competence and increase your appeal by demonstrating your commitment to professional growth and laid-out standards of practice. Credentials worth flaunting in your clinical psychology resume include Certified Cognitive Behavior Therapist, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, and American Board of Professional Psychology Diplomate.

Counselor Resume

Counselor resume example with 8 years of experience

  • Building that history will bolster your counselor resume by revealing your passion and skill for mental healthcare.

School Counselor Resume

School Counselor resume example with 9 years experience

  • Emphasize how you helped students work through common adolescent struggles to further build your case as a trained school counselor.

Related resume examples

  • Camp Counselor
  • Social Worker
  • Personal Trainer
  • Case Manager
  • Physical Therapist

Tailor Your Psychology Resume to the Job Description

Job seeker stands with hands in air, questioning how to fill out job materials

It’s time to let your psychology skills shine! Recruiters want to know how familiar you are with common digital programs, methods, and soft skills that are core to your profession . . . and to their particular open position.

Revisit the job description for the organization you’ve got your eye on, and look for keywords like “student counseling appointments” or “exposure therapy.” Write down whichever traits you have that overlap with that particular job opening.

Be specific about your skills to demonstrate which psychology niche you work in. Mention abilities specifically connected to your niche alongside the universal must-haves.

Need some starter ideas?

15 popular p sychology skills

  • TherapyNotes
  • SurveyMonkey
  • Google Classroom
  • MS PowerPoint
  • PowerSchool
  • Group Counseling
  • Active Listening
  • Patient Assessment
  • Google Teams
  • Goal Organization

psychology personal statement for resume

Your psychology work experience bullet points

Now, while it’s important for you to revisit the job description frequently for ideas, make sure you don’t just repeat things back to the recruiter! Strive to leverage your own psychology experiences whenever possible, since they’re what make you a standout candidate.

Use active verbs and language to show your enthusiasm for the position. An energetic tone will carry your achievements far, and you’ll be memorable for having great personal traits that mesh beautifully with psychology.

You also need to substantiate your claims to fame with metrics! You can enhance your credibility by including quantifiable measurements of your success, like wellness ratings, improvement percentages, and improved client satisfaction feedback.

  • Have your personal ratings as a counselor gone up during the past year? Say so!
  • Did well-being percentages climb as a result of your insightful outreach program?
  • Reduced instances of crises in your area of expertise demonstrate your efficacy.
  • Improved efficiency rates can also show your ability to streamline teamwork.

See what we mean?

  • Provided individual counseling services to 184 students, resulting in a 26% improvement in overall wellbeing
  • Conducted 42 group counseling sessions addressing bullying and stress, receiving an average group satisfaction rating of 4.7 out of 5 from student participants
  • Assisted clients in completing Sokanu assessments, facilitating 47% quicker completion of mental health evaluations
  • Ran virtual counseling sessions over BetterHelp under the supervision of licensed counselors, earning an average client satisfaction rating of 4.6 out of 5
  • Utilized SPSS to analyze client data and improve treatment efficacy evaluations by 67%

9 active verbs to start your psychology work experience bullet points

  • Administered

3 Tips for Writing a Psychology Resume if You’re Low On Experience

  • Just because a previous job wasn’t related to psychology doesn’t mean it can’t add to your qualifications now! If you’ve exhibited patience and empathy in past roles, like customer assistance, you can translate these experience points for your psychology resume.
  • If you write a career objective for your psychology resume, you can fill in some of those “gaps” that come with limited experience. Briefly describe why you’re a good fit for the job, and remember not to repeat yourself later!
  • If you’re looking to round off your resume, consider whether you completed any internships, classes, or even college group projects related to psychology.

3 Tips for Writing a Psychology Resume if You’ve Got Some Experience Already

  • When you have plenty of diverse professional experiences, it can be helpful to tie everything together with a resume summary . Instead of stating your career goals , sum up a few shining traits and notable experiences that qualify you for a job in psychology.
  • When you lay out your experience section, place your most recent experiences first. This will enable you to establish a clear growth trend throughout your career and wow the reader immediately.
  • If you have plenty of experiences in your professional history to choose from, stick to a few jobs and nix any that don’t relate to psychology. Leave out any irrelevant jobs that don’t reinforce your counseling abilities.

Oh, absolutely! If you have a Certified in Hospital Psychology (CHP) or Board Certified Specialist in School Psychology certificate, make sure you include a certifications section for them.

Many success metrics are calculated in percentages, sometimes resulting in a redundant-sounding list if you aren’t careful! Try to use a variety of metrics by pulling in things like star ratings and keep your context fresh.

While any of our three resume templates can provide you with a great starting point, you may want to pick the one that makes your experience look the most impressive! But, if your skills are your strongest selling point, consider the layout that emphasizes those.

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How to Create your Personal Statement for Psychology

Sponsored school(s).

Odds are, if you are at the stage of writing a personal statement, then you are more than likely preparing applications for graduate schools in psychology. Below find out what it is, why you need one, and get some pointers on crafting a personal statement that will put your best foot forward with the admissions committees.

What is a Personal Statement?

Commonly referred to as a “statement of purpose”, and by some as an “application essay”, a personal statement is your opportunity to introduce and  sell yourself to a desired graduate program or college . In most cases, the personal statement can serve as the defining factor that allows students to stand out in a pool of applicants with equally high GPAs and test scores. Plus, a stellar statement of purpose could also help the applications of students who have unfavorable scores and grades.

Before You Begin…

Consider the type of personal statement required of you:.

Personal statements can range from  a few paragraphs to several one-page essays  that address different topics. They will vary widely between programs and schools, which means that you might craft quite a few of these application essays if you seek admission into various programs.

The objective of these statements all share a common thread: for the graduate committee to get a clear understanding of your career and academic aspirations as well as a sample of your writing abilities (a skill of utmost importance for comprehensive graduate study).

If Topics Are Chosen By You

The specific expectations of a statement of purpose might vary. Some schools might leave the direction and objective of the essay up to the applicant. In cases, you have the freedom to choose what you write about although, as a rule of thumb,  essays should take on a professional/ academic focus  rather than be personal or autobiographical. Don’t confuse personal statement with a long essay about your life growing up.

Instead, demonstrate your best attributes by outlining your fit, interests, previous experiences, servant leadership, research and courses you have taken that affirmed your dedication to the field of study. If you were not given specific questions, then be sure to touch bases with all of these that are relevant to your background in a logical and consistent manner.

If Topics Are Chosen By the Program

Other schools may provide you with a list of specific questions to answer pertaining to your career objectives and how obtaining an education with the particular program may advance you towards your goals.

Examples of specific topics outlined by graduate schools in psychology include:

Explain any previous work experience or teaching experiences you have in the field of psychology and why those experiences make you a strong candidate for our program.

Explain your long-term career goals.

Why do you think this program is a good fit for you?

How do you think this program can help you further your career objectives?

How has your previous education prepared you to take on study at the graduate or professional level?

What experience do you have conducting research? Rate your interest in conducting research.

What practitioners, researchers, or authors in the field of psychology have influenced your interest in this area of study?

Reflect on these questions or topic areas for a while before starting the writing process. Review your resume for direction about skills, experiences, or even lack of experience that you’ll want to identify and elaborate on in your paper. Write a list of attributes that you think describe you and consider how they are relevant to your interest in pursuing higher education.

During and After Writing…

Express your motivation.

When developing a statement of purpose for graduate schools in psychology, you will want to write at length about your particular interests, motivation, and passion for the field of study. Consider what experiences or traits you have that make you a better candidate than the hundreds of other applicants vying to gain admission.

Back up your expression of motivation with hard facts. The admissions committee wants a well-rounded candidate with a number of professional experiences that have helped clarify their ability to handle graduate study. Simply going on and on about how bad you want to be in the program with no relevant experiences that support that claim may not win you any favor.

Be Honest and Clear

When preparing a document that is virtually serving as a personal advertisement, you will write at length about the skills you possess that strengthen your application: academic curiosity, flexibility, maturity, persistence, and professionalism among others. When elaborating on your strengths, be sure to do so with respect to their relevance and importance. Do not go on about a characteristic that could be considered minor or irrelevant.

Also, be mindful of stating your goals and interests clearly and honestly. If you are not interested in a particular area, then leave out that information. Do not express an interest or ability that you do not have. It’s significant to discuss your weaknesses as well. If you have low test scores or a less-than-spectacular GPA, point that out in advance. Explain, if appropriate, why these aspects of your application are weak and follow up with a plan to rectify those aspects if you are accepted into graduate school.

Summary Points to Remember

  • At this point, you can’t change your college or graduate school entrance test scores or your grade point average. You can, however, make a significant impact during the applications process by developing a well-written statement of purpose.
  • Avoid writing at length about your personal history. Stick to the qualities and experiences that are relevant to your growth and abilities in the field of psychology.
  • Answer all questions from the application and be sure to meet the page or word count requirements.
  • Be sure to clearly and honestly relate your experiences and interests, also taking time to point out both strengths and weaknesses. Share how you plan to overcome those weaknesses or use them to your advantage.
  • Ask someone else to look over your statement of purpose–an advisor or professor in your department–who can give you straightforward feedback on its content.
  • Customize each personal statement to the program or school you are applying. Elaborate on how that particular program can assist you in reaching your goals.
  • During revisions, pay attention to the strength and dynamism of your opening paragraph. Your goal is to hook the readers and give them the desire to keep reading.

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psychology personal statement for resume

Interview: Kurt Kraiger, Professor of Psychology, Director, Colorado State University

Kurt Kraiger, Professor of Psychology and Director of the MAIOP Program , joins us today to discuss their Master of A...

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Psychologist Resume: Skills, Summary, and Objective Examples

psychology personal statement for resume

As a psychologist, your resume is more than just a list of past jobs and education. It is a representation of who you are as a professional, and its contents can make or break your chances of landing a job. This is why it is crucial to make sure your resume stands out from the rest.

Your resume is often your first opportunity to make a good impression on potential employers. It is a chance to showcase your skills, experience, and education, and to demonstrate why you are the best candidate for the job.

What Hiring Managers Look for in a Psychologist Resume

Hiring managers are looking for psychologists who possess not only technical expertise but also excellent communication and interpersonal skills. They want to see evidence of your ability to work with diverse populations and to tailor treatment plans to individual needs.

Tips for Writing an Effective Psychologist Resume

To create an effective psychologist resume, you need to highlight your skills and achievements in a clear and concise way. Be sure to include a professional summary, objective statement, and lists of your skills and experience. Use action words to describe your past responsibilities and accomplishments. It’s also important to tailor your resume to the particular job you’re applying for.

By following these tips, you can create a compelling and effective resume that will make you stand out to potential employers. In the rest of this article, we’ll delve into specific examples of skills, summary statements, and objectives that can help take your psychologist resume to the next level. As a psychologist, your resume is your primary marketing tool, and it must capture your potential employers’ attention and provide a compelling framework of your qualifications, education, and experience. Below are the key components that should be included in your psychologist resume:

A. Contact Information

Your contact information is the first section of your resume and should include your full name, physical and email address, phone number, and LinkedIn profile if you have one. Make sure your email address and phone number are professional and easy to read.

B. Professional Summary

Your professional summary is where you can make an impression on the employer and highlight what makes you unique. It should be a concise and compelling statement that captures your experience and skills as a psychologist. Your summary should include your experience, key skills, and any accomplishments relevant to the job you’re applying for.

C. Education and Credentials

In this section, list your educational background, including any graduate-level degrees you have earned. Your degree and the institution where you earned it should be included, along with your graduation year. Additionally, include any professional credentials you have earned.

D. Licenses and Certifications

Licensing and certification are vital credentials for a psychologist, and you must list them in your resume. Include your license number, the state that issued the license, and the date of issuance. Also, if you have any other relevant certifications, list them in this section.

E. Relevant Work Experience

Your work experience is where you can showcase your skills and abilities as a psychologist. List the positions you have held in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent. Include the job title, the name of the organization or practice, and the length of employment, followed by your key responsibilities, accomplishments, and relevant skills.

F. Skills and Abilities

In the skills and abilities section, you can list your core competencies as a psychologist. Depending on the job, you may want to include skills such as assessment and diagnosis, psychotherapy, evidence-based therapy approaches, CBT, DBT, mindfulness techniques, or crisis intervention.

G. Professional Memberships and Associations

In your final section, you should include any professional memberships and associations relevant to your career as a psychologist. This section should list any professional organizations, societies, or associations you belong to and any leadership roles that you have held.

A well-written and well-organized psychologist resume is critical to landing the job you want. Be sure to present yourself in the best light and highlight your unique qualifications, skills, and achievements. With these key components, you’ll be on your way to building a strong and effective psychologist resume.

Formatting Your Psychologist Resume

As an experienced psychologist, your resume must be formatted in a professional and compelling way to grab the attention of hiring managers. Here are the three key elements of formatting your psychologist resume.

A. Choosing a Resume Format

When it comes to choosing a resume format, there are three popular options: chronological, functional, and hybrid. It is important to choose the right format that will highlight your skills, achievements, and work experience effectively.

Chronological Format : This type of resume is suitable for experienced psychologists who have a consistent work history. They can highlight their experience in reverse-chronological order, starting with their most recent job.

Functional Format : If you’re a psychologist with gaps in employment or have limited work experience, a functional resume format may be the best option. This format focuses on skills and achievements rather than work experience.

Hybrid Format : This format is a cross between chronological and functional formats. It highlights both work experience and skills, making it suitable for experienced psychologists who want to emphasize their expertise in certain areas.

Choosing the best resume format is crucial for attracting the attention of hiring managers and making a positive impression.

B. Best Practices for Formatting Your Psychologist Resume

Here are some best practices to follow when formatting your psychologist resume:

Use a professional font, such as Times New Roman or Arial, to make your resume easy to read.

Keep your resume to 1-2 pages by only including relevant information.

Use bullet points to organize information and make it easy to scan.

Include a professional summary at the top of your resume that highlights key skills and experience.

Use proper grammar and spelling throughout your resume.

By following these best practices, your psychologist resume will be easy to read, professional, and informative.

C. Tips for Customizing Your Resume for the Job

Customizing your resume for each job you apply to is essential. Here are some tips for customizing your psychologist resume for the job:

Analyze the job description and identify the key skills and qualifications the employer is looking for.

Tailor your resume to highlight the skills and qualifications that match the job requirements.

Use specific examples and achievements to demonstrate your expertise in the relevant areas.

Use keywords from the job description in your resume to make it more likely to pass ATS (applicant tracking system) screening.

By following these tips, you can customize your psychologist resume to fit the specific needs of each job you apply to, increasing your chances of getting hired.

Crafting a Powerful Professional Summary

A. What a Professional Summary Is

A professional summary, also known as a career summary or objective statement, is a short and concise paragraph that summarizes your key skills, experience, and achievements. It usually appears at the top of your resume and serves as your introduction to prospective employers. The main purpose of a professional summary is to grab the reader’s attention and quickly give them an idea of what you have to offer.

B. How to Write a Compelling Professional Summary

To write a compelling professional summary, you should focus on highlighting your most relevant skills and experiences. Start by identifying the key requirements of the job you are applying for and tailor your summary to match. Use strong action verbs and quantifiable achievements to showcase your impact and value. Keep it concise, well-written, and free of fluff.

C. Professional Summary Examples

Highly motivated and results-driven psychologist with 5+ years of experience working with children and adolescents. Proven track record in behavioral assessments, cognitive behavioral therapy, and crisis management. Achieved a 90% success rate in improving academic performance and reducing absenteeism among at-risk students.

Dynamic and compassionate psychologist with expertise in trauma therapy and crisis intervention. Over 8 years of experience working with individuals and families affected by traumatic events. Skilled in developing personalized treatment plans to help clients overcome emotional, physical, and psychological distress. Led a team of therapists to provide support and resources to victims of natural disasters.

Organized and detail-oriented psychologist with extensive experience in conducting psychological assessments and evaluations. Proficient in administering various assessment tools, including IQ, achievement, and personality tests. Published several research studies on the effectiveness of psychometric assessments in clinical practice. Developed new assessment protocols and streamlined testing procedures for a private practice.

A powerful professional summary should demonstrate your unique value proposition and make you stand out from other candidates. Use relevant keywords, highlight your achievements, and show how you can help the employer achieve their goals.

Highlighting Your Education and Credentials

As a psychologist, your education and credentials play a critical role in establishing your credibility and demonstrating your expertise to potential employers or clients. This section of your resume should focus on highlighting your relevant education and credentials to convince the reader that you are the right candidate for the job.

A. Why Education and Credentials Matter

Education and credentials are essential for psychologists because they demonstrate the depth and breadth of your knowledge and expertise in the field. They also indicate that you have the necessary training and skills to provide high-quality psychological services to clients. Furthermore, your education and credentials also provide a basis for ongoing professional development and continuing education, which is important in a constantly evolving field such as psychology.

B. How to Showcase Your Education and Credentials

To highlight your education and credentials effectively, you should provide details about your academic background, including your degree(s), the institution(s) where you obtained them, and any specializations or areas of focus. You should also include any licensure or certification credentials you have obtained, such as a state license to practice psychology or certification in a specific area of psychological practice.

When listing your education and credentials, make sure to include the relevant dates and any honors or awards you have received. You can also list any relevant coursework or training programs that are not captured in your degree or certificate, but that provide relevant experience or knowledge that would be valuable in your position as a psychologist.

C. Example of an Education and Credentials Section

Here’s an example of how to showcase your education and credentials effectively on your psychology resume:

In this example, the psychologist highlights their academic degrees and their areas of focus, as well as the relevant certification and licensure credentials. By including specific details about their education and credentials, this psychologist creates a clearer picture of their expertise and experience, making them a strong candidate for a variety of psychology-related roles.

Detailing Your Relevant Work Experience

When it comes to crafting a psychologist resume, one of the most important sections is your work experience. This section primarily focuses on your previous employment history and the experiences and skills you acquired on the job. It helps to showcase your ability to handle the responsibilities and demands of the position you are applying for.

A. Why Work Experience Matters

Your work experience plays a crucial role in getting hired as a psychologist. Employers look for candidates that have demonstrated skills, knowledge, and a track record of success in the field. Relevant work experience provides evidence of your ability to work in various settings, manage clients, handle complex situations, and effectively communicate with individuals, groups, and multidisciplinary teams.

In addition, your work experience shows your commitment to the profession and that you possess the technical competencies required of a psychologist. It demonstrates your capacity to apply theoretical and practical knowledge to real-world situations, make informed decisions, and deliver high-quality services to clients. Employers are more likely to consider applicants with relevant work experience since it reduces the need to invest in extensive training and onboarding processes.

B. How to Present Your Work Experience

The work experience section should be presented in reverse-chronological order, starting with your most recent position first. Each entry should include the following details:

  • Job title, company name, and employment dates
  • Key responsibilities and achievements in each role
  • Skills and competencies developed that are relevant to the position you are applying for
  • Educational qualifications, certifications, and professional licenses, if any

Additionally, use action verbs and quantitative data to highlight your accomplishments and show the impact of your work. For example, rather than stating that you “provided therapy to clients,” say that you “counseled over 50 clients with anxiety and depression, resulting in a 70% improvement in symptoms.” This approach not only provides specific and measurable results but also helps you stand out from other applicants.

C. Examples of Work Experience Sections

Licensed Psychologist with 10+ years of experience in private practice and community mental health settings. Demonstrated expertise in cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and crisis intervention. Led group therapy sessions for 25+ clients per week and maintained detailed records of client progress. Conducted psychological assessments and administered clinical tests to diagnose and treat mental health disorders. Supervised and trained junior clinicians and interns.

Mental Health Counselor with 5+ years of experience in university counseling centers and nonprofit organizations. Specialized in providing support to LGBTQ+ students, individuals dealing with grief and loss, and survivors of interpersonal violence. Conducted intake assessments and provided individual and group counseling to students, resulting in a 90% satisfaction rate. Coordinated and facilitated mental health workshops and awareness programs for student organizations and across campus.

Clinical Psychologist with 3+ years of experience in a hospital setting.

Showcasing Your Relevant Skills and Abilities

When it comes to crafting a psychologist resume, showcasing your relevant skills and abilities is crucial. Hiring managers want to see that not only do you have the necessary qualifications and education, but also the applicable skills and experience to effectively perform the job at hand.

A. Why Skills and Abilities Matter

Employers look for candidates who possess the necessary skills and abilities to perform the tasks related to the job. In the case of a psychologist, these skills and abilities may include:

  • Strong communication skills
  • Active listening and empathy
  • Analytical thinking and problem solving
  • Knowledge of various therapy methodologies
  • Ability to build rapport and trust with clients
  • Effective time management and organization

Highlighting these skills in your resume can make all the difference in catching the attention of a hiring manager.

B. How to Highlight Your Skills and Abilities

To effectively highlight your skills and abilities in your resume, it is important to use specific examples of how you have utilized them in past positions. This can include:

  • Mentioning specific therapy methodologies you have experience with
  • Providing examples of how you have effectively communicated with clients or colleagues
  • Discussing any challenges you have overcome in previous roles utilizing your analytical thinking and problem solving skills
  • Outlining any specific time management techniques you have used to maintain client schedules

It is also important to tailor your skills and abilities section to the job at hand. By reviewing the job description, you can identify specific skills and abilities that the employer is looking for and highlight any experience you have in those areas.

C. Examples of Skills and Abilities Sections

Below are some examples of how to effectively showcase your skills and abilities in your psychologist resume:

  • Proficient in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and solution-focused brief therapy
  • Skilled in active listening and utilizing empathy to build rapport and trust with clients
  • Effective time management and organization skills, leading to successful management of client schedules
  • Strong communication skills, demonstrated through successful collaboration with colleagues and effective communication with clients
  • Analytical thinking skills utilized to successfully identify and manage treatment-resistant cases
  • Knowledge of various therapy methodologies, including psychodynamic therapy and existential psychotherapy
  • Experienced in utilizing a client-centered approach, tailoring treatment plans to individual needs and preferences
  • Proven ability to effectively manage challenging or high-risk clients through the use of de-escalation techniques and crisis intervention skills
  • Strong analytical skills used to successfully develop and implement data-driven treatment plans

By effectively showcasing your skills and abilities on your psychologist resume, you can greatly increase your chances of catching the attention of hiring managers and landing your dream role.

Including Your Licenses and Certifications

As a psychologist, including your licenses and certifications is an essential part of your resume. These credentials demonstrate that you have met the required education, training, and professional standards necessary to practice as a psychologist.

A. Why Licenses and Certifications Matter

Including your licenses and certifications indicates to potential employers that you have the necessary qualifications to perform the job effectively. It also shows your commitment to your profession and continuing education, which can give you an edge over other job candidates.

Moreover, possessing a valid license and an up-to-date certification is essential for practicing psychology legally, and without them, you cannot perform several duties such as conducting assessments, diagnoses, or treatments.

B. How to Feature Your Licenses and Certifications

The best way to feature your licenses and certifications is by creating a separate section on your resume. It should come after your education section and before your work history or experience section.

Here are some tips for how to feature your licenses and certifications:

  • Use a clear and straightforward heading such as “Licenses and Certifications.”
  • List your credentials in reverse chronological order.
  • Specify the name of the license or certification, followed by the issuing organization, and the date of issue.
  • If you have multiple licenses or certifications, group them by category for easier reference.

Here’s an example of how to format your licenses and certification section:

C. Examples of Licenses and Certifications Sections

Below are some examples of how to include your licenses and certifications, but remember to tailor it to your own qualifications and experience.

Licenses and Certifications:

  • Licensed Clinical Psychologist, California Board of Psychology, 2010-Present
  • Certified in Neuropsychological Assessment, American Board of Professional Psychology, 2015-Present
  • Certified EMDR Therapist, EMDR International Association, 2013-Present
  • Licensed Psychologist, New York State Education Department, 2012-Present
  • Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), Behavior Analyst Certification Board, 2014-Present
  • Certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, National Institute for Trauma and Loss in Children, 2016-Present
  • Licensed School Psychologist, Florida Department of Education, 2013-Present
  • Certified Autism Specialist, International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, 2014-Present
  • Certified Positive Psychology Practitioner, International Positive Psychology Association, 2017-Present

Remember to include only the licenses and certifications that are relevant to your field of psychology and the position you are applying for. Be sure to keep the section concise and easy to read, using a consistent format for each entry.

Listing Your Professional Memberships and Associations

As a psychologist, your professional memberships and associations can have a significant impact on your career. Including them in your resume can highlight your involvement in the industry and show potential employers that you are dedicated to your profession.

A. Why Professional Memberships and Associations Matter

Professional memberships and associations provide a valuable opportunity for psychologists to connect with others in their field, learn from experts, and improve their skills. These organizations also often offer resources such as webinars, publications, and conferences that can keep members up-to-date on the latest research and best practices.

Being a member of a professional organization can also serve as a way to demonstrate your commitment to your profession, which can be important to potential employers. By showing that you are active in the industry, you differentiate yourself as someone who is invested in staying current and providing the best care possible to patients.

B. How to Include Your Memberships and Associations

When listing your professional memberships and associations on your resume, consider grouping them together in a separate section under a heading like “Professional Memberships” or “Associations.” Within this section, you may choose to organize your memberships by relevance or in alphabetical order.

It can be helpful to include a brief description of each organization, highlighting any notable achievements or contributions you have made to the group. For example, you might mention that you served on a committee, presented at a conference, or wrote an article for a publication.

C. Examples of Professional Memberships and Associations Sections

Here are a few examples of how you might include your professional memberships and associations on your resume:

Professional Memberships

  • American Psychological Association (APA)
  • National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)
  • Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT)

Associations and Memberships

  • Society of Clinical Psychology (SCP)
  • International Society of Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS)
  • Association for Psychological Science (APS)

Professional Affiliations

  • American Counseling Association (ACA)
  • Cognitive Neuroscience Society (CNS)
  • Society for Psychophysiological Research (SPR)

Remember to tailor your selection of professional memberships and associations to your specific career goals and interests. Being an active member of relevant organizations can help you stay informed about industry trends and connect with others in the field, ultimately making you a more valuable asset to potential employers.

Tailoring Your Psychologist Resume to the Job

As a psychologist, your resume is a crucial document that showcases your skills and experience to potential employers. However, simply sending the same resume to every job application may not be enough to stand out and land your dream job. To increase your chances of success, it’s essential to tailor your psychologist resume to the job you’re applying for.

A. Why Customizing Your Resume Is Important

Customizing your resume is important because it highlights your relevant skills and experience that match the requirements of the job posting. It also demonstrates your attention to detail, shows that you have taken the time to understand the job requirements, and increases your chances of being selected for an interview.

B. How to Tailor Your Psychologist Resume

Here are some steps to customize your psychologist resume:

  • Review the job posting: Read the job description carefully and highlight the skills and qualifications required.
  • Analyze your qualifications: Match your qualifications and experience to the job requirements, and identify which are your strongest suits.
  • Prioritize your experience: Focus on the most relevant experience you have that aligns with the job posting.
  • Use keywords: Use the same keywords used in the job posting to help your resume get noticed by applicant tracking systems (ATS) and recruiters.
  • Customize your objective: Tailor your objective to match the job you’re applying for, demonstrating your passion for the job and your fit for the company culture.
  • Include a summary: Write a summary that highlights your top skills, experience, and achievements that align with the job posting.

C. Examples of Customized Psychologist Resumes

Creating a customized psychologist resume starts with analyzing the job posting and tailoring your qualifications to match the requirements. Here are some examples of customized resumes:

Example 1: Clinical Psychologist

Objective: Seeking a clinical psychologist position to utilize my knowledge of evidence-based practices and therapies for clients with depression and anxiety.

Summary: Experienced clinical psychologist with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and five years of experience in providing therapy to clients with depression and anxiety. Skilled in administering psychological assessments and developing treatment plans based on evidence-based practices including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).

Example 2: School Psychologist

Objective: To obtain a school psychologist position in a dynamic and engaging environment where I can apply my skills in counseling and behavior management.

Summary: School psychologist with three years of experience in counseling and behavior management, delivering school-wide programming focused on social and emotional interventions. Skilled in implementing management and behavioral strategies, providing consultation services to teachers and parents, and conducting assessments and progress monitoring.

Customizing your psychologist resume to the job you’re applying for can make you stand out in a crowded job market.

Mistakes to Avoid in Your Psychologist Resume

A. common mistakes in writing a psychologist resume.

When it comes to crafting your psychologist resume, there are several common mistakes that many candidates make. Here are a few of the most common mistakes to avoid:

  • Using a generic resume template:  While it may be tempting to use a generic resume template, this can make your resume appear unprofessional and lackluster. Instead, take the time to design a unique and visually appealing resume that showcases your skills and experience.
  • Focusing on irrelevant experience:  It’s important to highlight your relevant work experience in your psychologist resume. Avoid devoting space to irrelevant jobs or experiences, as this can detract from your overall qualifications for the position.
  • Neglecting to mention specific skills:  Make sure to highlight your specific skills and qualifications that make you a good fit for the job. This can include experience with specific therapeutic techniques, familiarity with different types of patients or age groups, or specialized experience with certain mental health conditions.
  • Using overly complex language:  While it may be tempting to try to sound impressive by using overly complex language or technical jargon, this can actually make it difficult for employers to understand your qualifications. Stick to clear and concise language that accurately communicates your skills and experience.

B. How to Avoid These Mistakes

Now that you know some of the common mistakes to avoid when writing your psychologist resume, here are some tips for how to avoid those mistakes and create a winning resume:

  • Tailor your resume to the job description:  Look carefully at the job listing and make sure to tailor your resume to meet the specific qualifications and requirements listed. By doing this, you can ensure that your resume stands out and shows that you are the ideal candidate for the position.
  • Highlight your relevant experience and qualifications:  Instead of including every job or experience you’ve ever had, focus on highlighting those that are most relevant to the position you are applying for. This can help demonstrate that you have the specific skills and experience needed to excel in the role.
  • Use clear language and be concise:  Make sure that your resume is easy to read and understand by using clear and concise language. Avoid complex sentences or technical jargon, and stick to the essential information that will help make your qualifications clear.
  • Proofread and edit carefully:  Before submitting your resume, make sure to proofread and edit it carefully. This can help catch any errors or mistakes that could potentially harm your chances of getting hired.

By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a strong and effective psychologist resume that showcases your skills and experience in the best possible light. Good luck with your job search!

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Successful Personal Statement For Psychology At Oxford

Last Updated: 6th April 2022

Author: Rob Needleman

Table of Contents

Welcome to our popular Personal Statement series where we present a successful Personal Statement, and our Oxbridge Tutors provide their feedback on it. 

Today, we are looking through a Psychology applicant’s Personal Statement that helped secure a place at Oxford University. The Psychology Course at Oxford is a scientific discipline, involving the rigorous formulation and testing of ideas. It works through experiments and systematic observation rather than introspection.

Read on to see how this candidate demonstrates their academic interests and initiative.   

Here’s a breakdown of the Personal Statement (the applicant uses most of the 4,000 characters available):

SUCCESSFUL?

The universities this candidate applied to were the following:

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With our  Oxbridge Psychology Premium Programme, your tutor will give you regular actionable feedback with insider tips on how to improve and make your Personal Statement Oxbridge quality for the best chances of success.  

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Psychology Personal Statement

How does the mind work? The mind is a mystery housed within the most complex mechanism known to man: the human brain. My innate curiosity compels me to find out more about such a mystery through the study of Psychology.

I have long been interested in how our minds differ: for example, why have I always been a strong mathematician while my brother finds it challenging? Being a musician, I found Kathryn Vaughn’s research supporting a correlation between musical and mathematical abilities particularly thought provoking, while I have also wondered whether my childhood obsession with jigsaws helped me develop problem-solving skills, which are particularly relevant in Geometry: the area with the biggest rift in our abilities. Ann Dowker’s argument, in ‘Individual Differences’, that educational methods influence such differences was also particularly compelling. Therefore, in my gap year, whilst helping struggling learners in KS3 Mathematics at a local school, and, when I help educate children in Tanzania as an International Citizen Service volunteer with the VSO charity, I will evaluate the success of different educational methods. This will give me experience of carrying out my own research, and, will develop skills such as empathy, which is important in the more sensitive areas of Psychology. Furthermore, I recently assisted a University of Oxford researcher conducting follow-up assessments with children in local primary schools. These measured reading-age, language comprehension and numeracy level, and are used to gauge and refine the Catch-Up charity’s numeracy intervention programme. As some of the children being assessed were from a control group, my involvement also enlightened me to ethical aspects of research.

Differences that occur in the criminal mind are also of great interest to me. As an elected Student Ambassador for the Holocaust Educational Trust, I visited Auschwitz-Birkenau earlier this year, where I learnt about Rudolf Hoess. Hoess exterminated thousands of families, yet lived with his own family just outside the camp. This ignited an interest in complex behaviour; therefore I read Stanley Milgram’s research into whether ‘the Germans are different’, and learnt about his Theory of Obedience. This developed an interest in Forensic Psychology, and I subsequently attended a Forensics course at Nottingham University, where I learnt about a Forensic Psychologist’s role, during Mental Health tribunals, for example.

Deterioration of the mind, and methods to counteract this, also interest me. Reading the Psychologist has given me an insight into how the effectiveness of such methods could be analysed using a high-resolution 3D brain atlas; while a presentation from Claire Rytina enlightened me to useful cognitive treatment designed to rebuild and retrieve memory following her Viral Encephalitis. I have also voluntarily worked at a Nursing Home with some Dementia sufferers, and noticed that many sufferers enjoyed me playing music from their past, and sometimes, this triggered some of their memories. This made me wonder whether the music stimulated neurones which had lain dormant for years, similarly to when neurones are used for the first time, as Hubel and Weisel’s nature/nurture research has shown. Studying this in A level Biology gave me an interest in neuroscience, while Biology also stressed the importance of controls and fair tests, which are invaluable during Psychology experiments too. My mathematical skills in statistics will also be beneficial when analysing empirical evidence; and, the deep level of analysis and evaluation used for varying sources in A level History will be useful when studying case studies, while my essay techniques will help me when writing reports, and when considering issues from different perspectives.

Overall, I feel that my broad interests and skills will enable me to thrive as a Psychology student at a demanding University, where I would also make a positive contribution to University life.

For more inspiration, take a look through our other successful Personal Statement a nalysis articles:

Successful Personal Statement For Natural Science (Physical) At Cambridge

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Download our Free Personal Statement Starter Guide 

Good Points Of The Personal Statement

This statement is powered by a broad range of academic interests — all of which the candidate has explored to a deep and commendable level. They are able to articulate how these interests came about, why they are important and how they intersect. In so doing, the candidate clearly demonstrates their ability to think independently, undertake independent projects and foster a wide-ranging curiosity. Furthermore, they clearly illustrate how their academic interests have had a bearing on their actions outside of the classroom; activities that require a substantial amount of initiative and endeavour.

Bad Points Of The Personal Statement

While the consideration of a range of different areas of psychology is illustrative of a consistently curious individual, this statement would have benefited from greater cohesion as an overall piece. The candidate could have also found a less rhetorical way of opening their statement; their tone at this point is not a mode of speech that they return to elsewhere, and as such, it seems somewhat like a non-sequitur. Their prose thereafter is much more engaging, and it seems unfulfilling and irrelevant to include such mystifying text at the start.

UniAdmissions Overall Score:

This candidate maturely presents their academic interests and particular areas of personal pursuit. As a result of this, they are able to demonstrate moments at which they have taken impressive amounts of initiative, and have really gone out of their way in order to experience their academic interests outside of the classroom. They are thereby able to fashion themselves as a curious, energetic, academic individual, who is able to think independently and develop their own work. There are potential areas for stylistic improvement within the statement, but they do not hinder the overall impression given of a capable and committed candidate.

This Personal Statement for Psychology is a great example of demonstrating academic interest and initiative. The candidate’s interest and passion are clearly shown which is vital to Admissions Tutors.

Remember, at Oxford, these Admissions Tutors are often the people who will be teaching you for the next few years, so you need to appeal directly to them.

Go to our Free Personal Statement Resources page for even more successful personal statements and expert guides.

Our expert tutors are on hand to help you craft the perfect Personal Statement for your Oxford Psychology application.

With our  Oxbridge Psychology Premium Programme, we help you craft the perfect Personal   Statement , score highly on the TSA and teach you how to  Interview effectively .

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Psychology | Home

Personal Statements

students editing assignment

What is a Personal Statement?

A Personal Statement is a professional essay that outlines your interest for the field, relevant experiences, career goals, and fit to the program and or faculty member in which you are applying. Psychology and Psychological Sciences majors apply for a myriad of applied-masters, doctoral, and professional programs. The following tips will help you get started in addition to the supplemental articles from the APA. Students who are looking for a course that breaks down all of the steps in applying to graduate school (including writing your Personal Statement) should consider taking PSY 396C , Preparation for Graduate Programs in the Field of Psychology. This course is recommended Fall of junior year.

General Tips for any Personal Statement

  • Follow the directions and answer any questions or prompts provided by your programs.
  • Your Introductory Paragraph should share what ignited your passion or interest for the field (NOT TOO PERSONAL).
  • Give details, include names of agencies, labs, and or faculty to help paint the picture of what you did.
  • Share not only your duties but also what you learned from the experience and how that has solidified the work you want to do.
  • The conclusion needs to show fit to the school/program/faculty member. (PhD programs you need to name who you are applying to specifically).
  • Ensure your statement flows. Paragraphs need to have transition sentences to connect the ideas. Telling your professional story chronologically helps.
  • Edit, edit, and edit again. Ask many people to read and edit your statement before submitting it to your programs.

Personal Statements for Applied Masters Programs

An applied master's program is a program that is hands-on and provides coursework and experiences such as internships and field placements to train you to do the work in your chosen field. Some examples are Social Work, Mental Health Counseling, and School Counseling. There are many others. These statements aim to convey your interest for the field, share your relevant hands-on experiences as evidence of your preparation, and demonstrate how you are a good match for the program.

Personal Statements for PhD Programs

Ph.D. programs are primarily research-based programs. Even if they provide Clinical Training (e.g. Clinical and Counseling Psychology), they are still fundamentally rooted in producing scientific research. Your personal statement is an opportunity to sell yourself in terms of your research interests, previous research experience, and research goals. Your writing should be clear, concise, grammatically correct, and professional in tone.

Personal Statement Editing

Are you in the process of writing your personal statement for graduate or professional programs and need tutoring/editing services? The University of Arizona Writing Skills Improvement Program is your answer! They offer free and fee-based services. Students can schedule appointments or attend drop-in tutoring . Check it out!

Advice from the American Psychological Association

Applying to Grad School: What should I say in my Personal Statement

Preparing your Personal Statement for Graduate applications

Finding Fit: Personal Statements

StandOut CV

Psychology graduate CV example

Andrew Fennell photo

Psychology graduate roles allow you to pursue a career drawing on your diverse range of skills and capacity to use psychology knowledge…

But they require a fantastic CV that outstrips the competition.

This easy-to-follow guide is a practical approach to writing your psychology graduate CV that will ensure that you are invited for interview.

Guide contents

Psychology graduate CV example

  • Structuring and formatting your CV
  • Writing your CV profile
  • Detailing work experience
  • Your education
  • Skills required for your Psychology graduate CV

CV templates 

Psychology Graduate CV-1

This a good example of a Psychology graduate CV which contains all of the information that an employer would need to know, and presents it in a well- structured, easy-to-read manner.

Take some time to look at this CV and refer to it throughout the writing of your own CV for best results.

Psychology graduate CV structure and format

Think your CV is just about words? Think again.

Your CV needs to look professional and be easy for recruiters to read, meaning the structure and format of your CV are equally as important as the content within it.

Facilitate ease of reading by working to a simple structure which allows recruiters to easily navigate your experience.

CV structure

Formatting Tips

  • Length: Two sides of A4 makes for the perfect CV length , though one page is okay for less experienced applicants. This forces you to make sure that every single sentence adds value to your CV and ensures you avoid waffle.
  • Readability : Make sure your CV is easy to read and looks professional by applying some simple formatting tricks. Bullet points are great for making large paragraphs more digestible, while formatting your headings with bold or coloured text will help the reader to find the information they need, with speed.
  • Design: While it’s okay to add your own spin to your CV, avoid overdoing the design. If you go for something elaborate, you might end up frustrating recruiters who, above anything, value simplicity and clarity.
  • Avoid photos: Logos, profile photos or other images aren’t necessary and rarely add any value – save the space for written content, instead!

CV builder

Structuring your CV

When writing your CV , break up the content into the following key sections, to ensure it can be easily digested by busy recruiters and hiring managers:

  • Contact details – Always list these at the very top of your CV – you don’t want them to be missed!
  • Profile – An introductory paragraph, intended to grab recruiters attention and summarise your offering.
  • Work experience / career history – Working from your current role and working backwards, list your relevant work experience.
  • Education – Create a snappy summary of your education and qualifications.
  • Interest and hobbies – An optional section to document any hobbies that demonstrate transferable skills.

Now I’ll guide you through exactly what you should include in each CV section.

CV Contact Details

Contact details

Start off your CV with a basic list of your contact details. Here’s what you should include:

  • Mobile number
  • Email address – It’s often helpful to make a new email address, specifically for your job applications.
  • Location – Share your town or city; there’s no need for a full address.
  • LinkedIn profile or portfolio URL – Make sure the information on them is coherent with your CV, and that they’re up-to-date

Quick tip: Delete excessive details, such as your date of birth or marital status. Recruiters don’t need to know this much about you, so it’s best to save the space for your other CV sections.

Psychology graduate CV Profile

Recruiters and hiring managers are busy, so it’s essential to catch their attention from the get-go.

A strong introductory profile (or personal statement , for junior candidates) at the top of the CV is the first thing they’ll read, so it’s a great chance to make an impression.

It should be a short but punchy summary of your key skills, relevant experience and accomplishments.

Ultimately, it should explain why you’re a great fit for the role you’re applying for and inspire recruiters to read the rest of your CV.

CV profile

Tips for creating an impactful CV profile:

  • Keep it brief: Aim for a short, snappy paragraph of 3-5 lines. This is just enough room to showcase why you’d make the perfect hire, without going into excessive detail and overwhelming busy recruiters.
  • Tailor it: Not tailoring your profile (and the rest of your CV) to the role you’re applying for, is the worst CV mistake you could make. Before setting pen to paper, look over the job ad and make a note of the skills and experience required. Then, incorporate your findings throughout.
  • Don’t add an objective: You only have a short space for your CV profile, so avoid writing down your career goals or objectives. If you think these will help your application, incorporate them into your cover letter instead.
  • Avoid cliches: Cheesy clichès and generic phrases won’t impress recruiters, who read the same statements several times per day. Impress them with your skill-set, experience and accomplishments instead!

What to include in your Psychology graduate CV profile?

  • Summary of experience: To give employers an idea of your capabilities, show them your track record by giving an overview of the types of companies you have worked for in the past and the roles you have carried out for previous employers – but keep it high level and save the details for your experience section.
  • Relevant skills: Highlight your skills which are most relevant to Psychology graduate jobs, to ensure that recruiters see your most in-demand skills as soon as they open your CV.
  • Essential qualifications: If you have any qualifications which are highly relevant to Psychology graduate jobs, then highlight them in your profile so that employers do not miss them.

Quick tip: Even the best of writers can overlook typos and spelling mistakes. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to add pre-written content that has been created by recruitment experts, and proofread by our team.

Core skills section

Your CV is the very first impression you’ll make on a potential employer.

A disorganised, cluttered and barely readable CV could seriously decrease your chances of landing interviews, so it’s essential to make sure yours is slick, professional and easy to navigate.

You can do this by employing a clear structure and formatting your content with some savvy formatting techniques – check them out below:

CV core skills

Work experience/Career history

By now, you’ll have hooked the reader’s attention and need to show them how you apply your skills and knowledge in the workplace, to benefit your employers.

So, starting with your most recent role and working backwards to your older roles, create a thorough summary of your career history to date.

If you’ve held several roles and are struggling for space, cut down the descriptions for your oldest jobs.

Work experience

Structuring your roles

Lengthy, unbroken chunks of text is a recruiters worst nightmare, but your work experience section can easily end up looking like that if you are not careful.

To avoid this, use my tried-and-tested 3-step structure, as illustrated below:

Role descriptions

Start with a brief summary of your role as a whole, as well as the type of company you worked for.

“Worked within the multi-disciplinary Psychology Department, comprising 8 staff members including custodial officers and Trainee Forensic Psychologists, and worked with children, aged 15 to 18 years, presenting with complex needs in order to build upon clinical experience; reported to the Registered Psychologist.”

Key responsibilities

Follow with a snappy list of bullet points, detailing your daily duties and responsibilities.

Tailor it to the role you’re applying for by mentioning how you put the target employer’s desired hard skills and knowledge to use in this role.

  • Encouraged children to attend a range of activities inclusive of educational events, the gym, family visits and interventions, such as psychological counselling.
  • Rescheduled sessions in the case of any delays resulting from violence and high-risk incidents.
  • Applied a thorough understanding of what it means to work in a secure environment, respond to the children’s needs, and employ resilience when dealing with challenges.

Key achievements

To finish off each role and prove the impact you made, list 1-3 stand out achievements , results or accomplishments.

This could be anything which had a positive outcome for the company you worked for, or perhaps a client/customer. Where applicable, quantify your examples with facts and figures.

Although there should be mentions of your highest and most relevant qualifications earlier on in your CV, save your exhaustive list of qualifications for the bottom.

If you’re an experienced candidate, simply include the qualifications that are highly relevant to Psychology graduate roles.

However, less experienced candidates can provide a more thorough list of qualifications, including A-Levels and GCSEs.

You can also dedicate more space to your degree, discussing relevant exams, assignments and modules in more detail, if your target employers consider them to be important.

Interests and hobbies

Although this is an optional section, it can be useful if your hobbies and interests will add further depth to your CV.

Interests which are related to the sector you are applying to, or which show transferable skills like leadership or teamwork, can worth listing.

On the other hand, generic hobbies like “going out with friends” won’t add any value to your application, so are best left off your CV.

Essential skills for your Psychology graduate CV

Tailoring your CV to the roles you are applying for is key to success, so make sure to read through the job descriptions and tailor your skills accordingly.

However, commonly desired  Psychology graduate skills include:

  • Literacy skills – Prove that you have the skills that cover everything from research and comprehension through to extended writing and reporting.
  • Critical thinking – Demonstrate critical thinking and critical analysis skills in different ways from statistical understanding to discussions.
  • Interpersonal – Showcase your ability to apply knowledge-based interpersonal skills in problem-solving and results-orientated ways.
  • Psychology practice – Explain how you utilise your psychology knowledge and theory in practice.
  • Listening and questioning – Demonstrate your ability to question effectively and listen attentively.

Writing your Psychology graduate CV

A strong, compelling CV is essential to get noticed and land interviews with the best employers.

To ensure your CV stands out from the competition, make sure to tailor it to your target role and pack it with sector-specific skills and results.

Remember to triple-check for spelling and grammar errors before hitting send.

Good luck with the job search!

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How to Write a Personal Statement for Psychology: With [Examples]

In this article, we discuss how to write a personal statement for psychology courses with helpful tips and examples.

What do a volunteer in a program for homeless children, a future college lecturer, and a medical student with a passion for supporting high achievers with ADHD have in common? They all want to study psychology.

By the end of this guide, you will have everything you need to write an outstanding personal statement for psychology.

psychology personal statement

Table of Contents

What is a psychology personal statement, what are the different stages of writing a personal statement for psychology, psychology personal statement example #1, psychology personal statement example #2, psychology personal statement example #3, faq (frequently asked questions), more personal statement tutorials.

It’s a professional essay that outlines your interest and knowledge in the field, along with your relevant qualifications and career goals. You will also explain how you fit with the psychology program to which you are applying.

A well-crafted personal statement can help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your commitment to psychology and your enthusiasm for learning. The statement should provide insight into why you are interested in studying psychology.

Furthermore, the statement should highlight any skills and experiences you have, such as research experience or volunteer work.

For example,

“I also volunteered at a local after-school club for vulnerable teens, where I was able to witness first-hand the impact that psychological support can have on an individual’s well-being. I believe that I learned as much from the experienced, committed counsellors there as I did in my early classes in psychology. I am deeply committed to entering psychology and making a positive difference in the lives of others.”

1. Understand the Course and Application Requirements

Before you start writing, make sure you understand the specific requirements of the psychology course you’re applying for.

Ask your chosen university or college for any specific guidance they may have and read it carefully.

Make sure you familiarise yourself with any guidelines including word count, and list any information you should include in your personal statement.

2. Identify your interests

Writing a personal statement for a psychology course can seem daunting, but breaking it down into individual steps can be much easier.

Start by identifying your experience, interests and skills, including, work experience, conferences you have attended, and voluntary work.

“With this in mind, I have volunteered for the past three summers at Rainbow House, where counsellors and psychologists help support people struggling with a range of addictions access counselling, and practical training and prepare to re-enter the workforce. I believe that without counselling as an intrinsic part of the process, they would not see the levels of success that they have.”

Be sure to explain reasons for your interest in the branches of psychology that the course may cover, and provide examples from your own life when possible.

Let your passion for the subject and your natural curiosity shine through in your personal statement, and make sure it is original and specific to your experiences.

3. Write down your initial ideas

When writing a personal statement for psychology, it is important to plan properly by writing down your initial ideas.

This idea list should include your experiences, interests, and skills related to psychology and why you are applying to study psychology.

Use your initial ideas to create an outline for your personal statement that includes a brief introduction about yourself and why you want to study psychology. Choose the experiences that made an impact on you, particularly if they relate to your future career.

“…my ambition is to continue my studies and complete a PhD, in order to lecture in psychology at college level. I believe that every field of medicine should have experts who are passionate about academic excellence and I want to use my talent for coaching and tutoring my peers at a higher level.”

Think about how to make your opening sentences captivating and relevant, as this will be your first impression on the reader. Use short, punchy sentences to grab the reader’s attention.

4. Write your personal statement

Start with an engaging opening paragraph. Make sure to use a professional and formal writing style, avoid jokes, and make sure your personality comes through in your writing.

‘I am excited to apply to study psychology at postgraduate level as I have always been fascinated by how the mind works. My interest in this psychology was there from a very early age, when I tested in the 90th percentile as being very empathetic and supportive of other pupils at elementary school. During High School I was able to volunteer to work on homework with young children who were homeless and seeing them cope with challenging emotional issues filled me with admiration for their resilience while wanting to let them know that I was there to offer academic support also.’

Allocate one paragraph to each point on your list. Make sure your statement is specific and original, and avoid long-winded sentences.

Once you have your first draft, seek feedback from classmates as well as tutors. Incorporate any comments, feedback, and suggestions that improve your statement.

5. Revise your personal statement

  • Wait 24 hours, then read over your final draft and check for grammar or spelling mistakes. Read it out loud or have someone else read it for you to ensure it is clear, informative and personal.
  • Ensure your personal statement is original and specific to your experiences.
  • Stay away from any negative content unless talking about how a difficult experience has made you stronger and more resilient, which will make you a better student.
  • Keep redrafting until you feel it is as polished as possible.

I am excited to apply to study psychology at a postgraduate level as I have always been fascinated by how the mind works. My interest in this psychology was there from a very early age when I tested in the 90th percentile as being very empathetic and supportive of other pupils at elementary school. During High School, I was able to volunteer to work on homework with young children who were homeless and seeing them cope with challenging emotional issues filled me with admiration for their resilience while wanting to let them know that I was there to offer academic support also.

During my undergraduate degree in biology, I was the president of the psychology club, where I worked with graduate students to complete several independent research projects on topics relating to young learners. As a result, I am keen to become a child psychologist, focusing on supporting young people who are homeless and in the foster care system.

I also volunteered at a local after-school club for vulnerable teens, where I was able to witness first-hand the impact that psychological support can have on an individual’s well-being. I believe that I learned as much from the experienced, committed counsellors there as I did in my early classes in psychology. I am deeply committed to entering psychology and making a positive difference in the lives of others.

I am confident that my passion, curiosity, and dedication to psychology make me a strong candidate for this program, and I am excited to have the opportunity to continue my studies at a higher level and become part of a new learning community.

With every academic paper and publication, I read since beginning to study medicine and psychology, my interest in the subject has grown. In light of my fascination with behaviour and the mind, as well as my interest in helping patients, psychology is my chosen subject for further study. It is extremely important to me to continue learning and building upon my knowledge, and I am full of admiration for grassroots charities making sure that all patients can access high-quality, affordable care.

With this in mind, I have volunteered for the past three summers at Rainbow House, where counsellors and psychologists help support people struggling with a range of addictions access counselling, and practical training and prepare to re-enter the workforce. I believe that without counselling as an intrinsic part of the process, they would not see the levels of success that they have.

While I enjoy being involved in this type of community project and foresee my involvement continuing for many years, my ambition is to continue my studies and complete a PhD, in order to lecture in psychology at college level. I believe that every field of medicine should have experts who are passionate about academic excellence and I want to use my talent for coaching and tutoring my peers at a higher level. I maintain a 4.0 GPA and have taken three extra credit courses while acting as a research assistant for Professor Dimbleby one day a week.

I feel prepared for the challenges that lie ahead and am eager to join a world-class team at Cornell to become the best that I can be and support others to be their best.

I have long had an interest in better understanding psychopathologies and wish to pursue a psychiatry residency at Ramsey Hospital after graduating from Cold Springs University Medical School. It has been fascinating to see the societal change in terms of acknowledging and talking about mental and social issues such as depression and anxiety as well as the contribution and importance of the inclusion of neurodivergent people in our communities. As a future psychiatrist, I am committed to treating every patient with respect and dignity, ensuring I am treating the person rather than focusing only on the diagnosis.

My psychiatry rotation during medical school was an enriching experience and I became confident in taking patients’ psychiatric history and conducting mental status exams. My ability to build rapport with patients and question them directly but respectfully, improved over the six weeks and I look forward to focusing more on these skills as I gain a deeper understanding of effective psychiatric care.

Last year I volunteered with a charity supporting mental health and neurodivergence awareness in Hanoi, Viet Nam, as I feel a deep connection with that country, thanks to having Vietnamese-American relatives. I learned that there are very few psychologists and even fewer clinical psychiatrists who can prescribe medication and treatment. As increasing numbers of teenagers and adults as well as younger children are being diagnosed with ADHD, as in the US, there are often long waiting times, and challenges in accessing medication. There is much work to be done on the use of non-stimulants to treat ADHD where stimulants such as amphetamines are ineffective and I completed my final research paper on this topic.

In Vietnam it was interesting to me to encounter some of the same prejudices as my older sister encountered from relatives and her primary care doctor, who insisted that my sister could not have ADHD because she is a well-paid, successful accountant. The struggle to balance and often hide symptoms of her condition has left my sister battling anxiety and depression and I am particularly interested in developments in treating ADHD in combination with depression, severe anxiety and other psychiatric conditions.

Following my residency my goal is to qualify as a psychologist and practice locally in Arizona while offering continuing long-distance support via Zoom to the team in Hanoi. I am determined to become an outstanding psychiatrist, enhancing my patients’ emotional well-being while supporting them as individuals with the best and most professional care.

Some of these questions were already covered in this blog post but I will still list them here (because not everyone carefully reads every paragraph) so here’s the TL;DR version.

What format should I use for my personal statement for psychology?

Your personal statement should include a brief introduction about yourself, your experiences, any past knowledge and why you want to study this specific course. Also include details of your relevant hands-on experiences (research, internship, volunteer, work, etc.) and what you learned from them.

Additionally, if you are applying to a PhD program, make sure to mention the name of the faculty member(s) you are applying to.

How should I structure my personal statement for psychology?

A personal statement for psychology should begin with an introduction about yourself, such as your experiences and any past knowledge that relates to the field, as well as why you want to study psychology.

The body of your statement should go into depth on your relevant hands-on experiences, such as research, internships, volunteering, or work. Be sure to provide details about what you did, the names of any organizations or people you worked with, and what you learned from the experience.

The conclusion should show how you are a good fit for the school/program/faculty member you are applying to, such as how the experience you mentioned has solidified your interest in the field.

Finally, it is important to ensure your statement flows. Take time to edit and proofread your statement to make sure everything connects and is cohesive.

What topics should I focus on in my personal statement for psychology?

Consider the aspects of the psychology course that you enjoy the most and do some additional reading beyond what you’ve been taught.

Additionally, provide specific examples of how you’ve pursued your interest in the subject, such as writing about a topic you’ve studied that you find fascinating or discussing a book or blog post that made you want to learn more.

Finally, consider which field of psychology you would like to specialize in and why.

What level of detail should I go into for my personal statement for psychology?

It’s important to go into specific detail about your interests and skills.

Avoid sweeping generalisations (I always get high grades) and give focused details (I maintain a 3.9 GPA).

Research the course you are applying for so you have a realistic idea of what you will be doing on it, and make sure to articulate why you want to study psychology.

What should I avoid when writing my personal statement for psychology?

When writing your personal statement for psychology, there are a few things you should avoid in order to give yourself the best chance of getting onto your desired course.

  • Firstly, avoid using an informal writing style or telling jokes. Use a professional and formal tone when injecting personality into your statement.
  • Be mindful of not giving too much personal information in terms of speaking about your own life events, mental health challenges, or learning difficulties unless they have made you stronger.
  • Finally, pay attention to your tone and avoid phrases such as “less fortunate people”. Stay away from using sophisticated language or phrases if you don’t understand them. Be honest and original.

How can I get feedback on my personal statement for psychology?

Ask trusted individuals, such as professors, mentors, and friends, to read over your statement and give feedback. This will help you to identify any errors or missing information that you may have overlooked.

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  17. Psychology graduate CV example + writing guide [Get noticed]

    Psychology graduate CV example. CV templates. This a good example of a Psychology graduate CV which contains all of the information that an employer would need to know, and presents it in a well- structured, easy-to-read manner. Take some time to look at this CV and refer to it throughout the writing of your own CV for best results.

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