<p>I also have the option of pursuing a certificate in cognitive sciences and taking human factors or I/O electives to gain “education experience.” Basically the program would allow me to get my foot in the door, take some graduate coursework, meet important graduate faculty and be a little bit more competitive when it comes to applying for a master’s/PhD program. Certificate programs at my school are eligible for fin aid. I thought that doing this combined with an RA or TA position could cut down the cost of tuition. OR I can apply as a non degree seeking student but I’d have to finance a semester or two out of pocket 
assuming I can find a serving job or something in the meantime.</p>