hey there, im a recent Psych graduate from the UK
i would like to tell you now, that psychology is a very very competitive field. like its crazy. thats why im hoping to get out of the field, the path to a phd is just very unlikely for me, and would take like 7 to 10 years. some points:
- the conversion doesnt matter since its a course that brings you up to speed with psychology, the same way that psychology undergrads are! dont worry too much but you really need to dedicate yourself to psychology
- the general path to the doctorate from a psych BSc is: support worker (mental health preferably) ; honorary assistant psychologist; assistant psychologist (insanely hard to find) - doctorate.
tips i wish i knew:
- get experience in the labs in a research intern, research assistant, or lab technician ASAP. this will be shadowing or helping the psychologists with research, this is so valued. only voluntary so best to do while studying or alongside other work
- helpful to work as a bank support worker (meaning you work when you are free and if there are shifts), flexible and good for getting your foot in the door
- note: support work is also termed healthcare assistant, auxiliary nurse, support staff. these roles will require personal care sometimes (showering, toileting, feeding, moving the patient around physically, etc) so be aware. mental health support roles are not as physically demanding, but are more difficult to get.
- keep sweet with academic staff, getting a glowing reference for future applications is very useful!
- the doctorate process usually takes 3 or 4 rejections. each rejection means you need to work harder than before!
i really wish you the best, if psychology is your passion and you wont ever stray, then do the conversion, otherwise i would personally advise you to save your money since the job market is so over saturated! for international students, i've heard its easier to get experience abroad, so i recommend finding research or AP roles. all the best, happy to answer questions further