The professional option: An alternative to graduate work in psychology.

Discusses the organization of a 4-yr preprofessional curriculum for psychology majors, to offer undergraduate training and help students obtain full-time employment after graduation. Curriculum planning was based on 2 surveys of local business and social service organizations. Results indicate that a BA in psychology was of little help in obtaining work unless field experience supplemented classroom instruction. Specific skills and theoretical knowledge were considered less desirable in prospective employees than facility in personal relations. These findings were of central importance in making recommendations for restructuring the undergraduate curriculum. Suggestions for APA action in this area are outlined. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)