Date of Award

11-6-2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Graduate Department of Clinical Psychology

First Advisor

Gregory Fischer

Second Advisor

Carilyn Ellis

Third Advisor

Ty Sohlman

Abstract

Graduate admissions teams analyze student applications to decide which applicants to invite for postgraduate work. Historically, graduate admissions teams have attended to cognitive measures, including undergraduate GPA and standardized test scores. While these items have some predictive validity for cognitive outcomes like graduate GPA, admissions teams consider other admissions data to discern whom to invite for enrollment. Clinical psychology admissions teams consider written application materials, letters of reference, and curricula vitae to create a more holistic view of applicants. Research has yet to discern how the integrated evaluation of admissions data might predict the success of future professionals and serve as a gatekeeping function to the profession. This study explored the predictive validity of a PsyD program’s application rating system meant to holistically evaluate prospective students. I hypothesized that application ratings will predict successful outcomes as defined by professional competency attainment, degree completion, and years to licensure. I hypothesized that overall rating and specific ratings of academics, motivation, and personality would most strongly predict student success. Binomial regressions showed no significant results, indicating that the rating system may not serve a gatekeeping function. Holistic application rating systems may not be effective at identifying students who will have trouble completing aspects of their program. Considerations for future research are discussed.

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