It is always worth applying and if you can take the GRE’s again I would do it. Clinical psych programs are very competitive but your research experience and experience in a psych hospital will put you in a smaller pool.

As for an MSW on the way to a PhD in psych. It is possible (though you don’t want to think of it as “transfering”) However, you would not be seen as strong a candidate as if you got your MA in psych (did well) and then applied for a PhD. It is very possible to go to one school for your MA and another for a phd. DA

Apply anyways and then keep your fingers crossed. Try to get an interview with the schools you’re applying to and explain that standardized tests are just not your strength, then pull the focus back on all the things you are indeed strong at by reminding them of all your other accomplishments and how well your personal characteristics, work experience, research experience and work ethic will make you a great addition to their program. Impress them. Dress nicely, smile and work the hell out of that interview. Walk out of there making the interviewer really want you in their program. You might also want to say something about GRE scores in your essay. Good luck.

edit – I don’t know anything about transferring credits from another program’s masters degree into a PhD program, but they might be willing to take 2 classes or so. Cross that bridge when you get to it though. If you really want that psychology doctorate, then focus on it and go for it. You never know.

While the above answers are encouraging and supportive, they are not at all realistic.

Clinical psych programs are the most competitive of all fields in terms of admissions. Low GREs will get you cut in the first round of application review, since there are hundreds of applications for each open slot.

You must retake your GREs. There is no way around it.

A MSW program does not set you up for “transfer” to a PhD program in clinical psych. One does not “transfer” from any Masters level program into any PhD program. One applies. Thus, you would have to reapply to PhD programs.

I really am sorry, but I guarantee you will be denied admission to any PhD program because of that score, and it is better for you to be told the truth rather than be offered false hope.

Best wishes to you.

Definitely apply. If there’s any department that gives second thoughts to standardized test scores, it’s going to be the psychology department.

As for applying coursework from an MSW to a Ph.D in psych. Not really. . They are mutually very different. You might be able to waive some of the required stat courses but that’s about it. you’ll essentially have to start fresh at the bottom.

I will just add that the PhD for social work is social welfare- if you get the MSW you’ll have a better shot at the social welfare PhD.

It isn’t a transfer, you just apply (though for social welfare, you not only need the MSW but also experience).

The 2 degrees are not the same. You may want to seriously consider what kind of work you want to do before applying.