MASTERS INTERVIEW PROCESS

The interview process for professional psychology programs can vary by university, but it typically involves multiple steps to assess an applicant’s suitability for the program. If a student meets the criteria for a particular year, they may be invited to interview. This invitation could include anywhere from 20 to 80 applicants, depending on the institution. Once invited, students must confirm their attendance, and the interview process will typically assess various aspects of their academic and personal competencies.

 

Individual Interview

 

In most cases, students will undergo an individual interview with a member or members of the faculty and selection panel. The primary goal of this interview is to gain a deeper understanding of the applicant, including clarifying any aspects of their application, essays, or other submitted documents.

This can be a nerve-wracking experience for many applicants, as the interview is personal and focused on assessing the student’s suitability for the program. Interviewers will typically have reviewed the student’s application in advance and may want to explore specific aspects further. The role of the interviewers is not to “test” the students, but rather to better understand who they are and what motivates them.

It’s crucial for students to be themselves during this phase. There is no need to try to impress the interviewers; instead, they want to learn more about the person behind the application.

 

Group Interview

 

Some universities opt to conduct group interviews as part of their selection process. This approach is typically used to evaluate a student’s social and collaborative skills and assess their potential fit within a group dynamic. While the prospect of a group interview can be anxiety-inducing, students should remain calm and composed throughout the process.

In a group interview, applicants are usually given a topic to discuss within a set time limit. The topic may range from current events to problem-solving exercises related to psychological interventions. These group interview techniques vary vastly from university to university. A group interview is more focused on the students collaborative skills and intrapersonal communication styles. 

It’s important to be mindful of the group dynamics. Students should be respectful of others’ contributions, and when it’s their turn to speak, they should do so in a professional manner. The goal of this exercise is not necessarily to provide the “right” answer but to demonstrate how the student collaborates and contributes to the discussion. Students should avoid dominating the conversation or being too quiet, as both extremes could negatively impact how the panel perceives your group fit.

As with the individual interview, the best advice is to be yourself—share your perspective and contribute thoughtfully to the discussion.

 

Written Tasks


Some universities may require applicants to complete written tasks or assignments during the selection week. These assignments can vary greatly and may include psychometric testing, research, proposal development, literature reviews, or case studies.

While it can be challenging to prepare for these tasks, students should remember that they would have encountered these topics during their undergraduate or honours studies. The key to success is confidence in your academic background and abilities. When asked to complete written assignments, it’s important to stay organized, manage time effectively, and present findings clearly and professionally.

Students may also be required to present their work—whether a case study, proposal, or literature review. Regardless of the task, aim to deliver your findings concisely and with professionalism, while considering the time constraints for the presentation.

Case Study

A common part of the selection process is the case study, where students are presented with information about a hypothetical patient. The task is to analyze and conceptualize the case, identifying the psychological issues and suggesting appropriate interventions based on empirical evidence.

While case conceptualization may not be deeply covered during undergraduate or honours courses, instructions are typically provided. The goal is to assess the student’s ability to understand psychological problems, provide a diagnosis, and suggest potential treatment options. Student’s need to be concerned about provide textbook definitions or criteria for diagnosis, but rather highlight their thinking processes and problem solving abilities to showcase their psychological understanding.

Case studies may be presented in written form or require an oral presentation. In either case, students are expected to think critically and approach the case with an analytical mindset.

Role Play

Role play is another exercise used to assess a student’s practical skills, especially their ability to interact with clients in a therapeutic setting. During this exercise, students are typically asked to take on the role of a counselor, while a panelist plays the role of the client.

While this exercise can be daunting due to the presence of observers, it’s important to focus on the interaction with the client and not be distracted by the fact that you are being observed. The primary goal is to demonstrate empathy and establish a warm, supportive counseling environment.

After the role play, the panel may ask the student to reflect on the interaction. This reflection doesn’t require perfect answers, but instead, it encourages students to be honest and critically evaluate their performance, acknowledging both their strengths and areas for improvement.

Final Thoughts on the Interview Process

Each of the components mentioned—individual interviews, group interviews, written tasks, case studies, and role plays—serve to help the selection panel make an informed decision about which applicants are most likely to succeed in the program. However, not all applicants will receive offers, and some may be waitlisted. Waitlisting means that students are kept on a shortlist in case another candidate is unable to accept their offer.

The most important piece of advice is to be yourself. The selection panel is looking for individuals who are self-aware and capable of critical reflection on their abilities. Authenticity and self-reflection are key.

Cognition & Co offers workshops and events designed to help students prepare for these various aspects of the interview process. While we cannot predict specific questions or scenarios, we can equip you with the tools to effectively manage these exercises. 

Remember, you are not alone in this process. Many other students are going through the same selection process and share similar anxieties. Use this time to connect with others and build a supportive network that could become valuable peers during your studies.

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