Researching Graduate School Programs

If you've decided that graduate school fits into your career and life plans, it is time to start finding out as much as you can about the program of study that you have in mind. Start your search as early as possible and begin to explore schools that offer graduate programs in your areas of interest.

Most people want to know which institution has the "best" program. There is no single reliable ranking of graduate schools. While national rankings do exist, each is based on different criteria. Therefore, you'll want to conduct your own research on the programs that interest you. Talk with faculty members, admissions representatives, and current students and professionals in your field to gain a better sense of programs of study. In addition, review graduate catalogs and Web pages for further information.

As you begin your research, there are many directories, housed at the CDC which provide information about graduate programs in all areas of study. The most comprehensive guide is the Peterson's Guide to Graduate Study which details over 13,000 graduate and professional programs in over 95 disciplines, such as Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, Business, Education, Health, Law, Physical Sciences, Engineering, Math and Applied Sciences.

On-line resources include:

• Peterson's Graduate School Directory
• US News & World Report: Best Graduate Schools
• FastWeb
• FinAid Page
• Graduate Record Exam (GRE)

Applying to Graduate School

Applying to graduate school is a complex process; therefore, starting early and becoming knowledgeable about the admissions process is very important. A CDC counselor can be of assistance as you pursue graduate school admissions. Below are several elements of the graduate school admissions process that you can expect to encounter. For additional information, view the Applying to Graduate School handout (282 KB) provided by the CDC.

The Application Form

It should be completed early, accurately, and be free from typographical or grammatical errors. It is a good idea to have someone proofread your application to check for errors. Be consistent in providing information, especially your full, legal name. Expect that you may have to use a typewriter to complete your application form. The CDC has a typewriter for student use.

The Personal Essay

Almost every graduate school application requires a personal essay. Most typically, the applicant is asked to discuss her "statement of purpose." Your essay should answer specific questions posed in the application, express your enthusiasm for the field of study, your motivation, experience, maturity, and unique qualities. The essay is a key measure of your ability to communicate, so be sure to catch all grammatical and spelling errors. A CDC counselor can proofread your essay. Most applications will state the length of the essay or provide a space in which to write it. Keep your essay within these boundaries.

Transcripts

Follow the graduate school's instructions for providing transcripts. Most programs require that official copies of your transcript be sent directly from the Registrar's Office. Allow plenty of time for them to be requested and mailed.

Letters of Recommendation

Typically, up to five letters are requested from faculty members or employers as part of the admissions process. The individuals who write your letters should be capable of evaluating your academic and personal potential based on their own observations. Give your recommenders plenty of time to write their letters as well as enough information about yourself to assist them in your letter-writing process. This usually takes the form of a resume, transcript, and copy of your personal essay. In addition, courtesy dictates that you also provide a postage-paid envelope with the proper address. Once the application process is all over, a thank you note to each of your recommenders is appropriate.

The Career Development Center has partnered with Interfolio.com. We have concluded that on-line access to an electronically stored credentials will provide the greatest convenience and accessibility for you. Click here for more information about this service.

Standardized Tests

Most schools require that students take one or more standardized admissions tests. The school's catalog will specify which test you need. Information bulletins and test applications are available at the CDC; some are also available online.

Application Fees

Typically, application fees range from $20 to $100 per school. Many universities have an application fee waiver for applicants with financial need. Call the admissions office of the school to which you are applying to find out how you can secure a waiver.

Financial Aid

It is crucial that you read over financial aid materials carefully and file all documents on time. Be aware of all deadlines, as they may differ among institutions.

Additional Resources

The following books, available at the CDC, can provide additional information about the graduate school application process.

• Getting into Medical School
• Getting into Law School
• Graduate Admissions Essays
• How to Write a Winning Personal Statement
• Essays that Worked for Business Schools
• Essays that Worked for Law Schools

For individual assistance with your graduate school application process, contact the Career Development Center and schedule an appointment to meet with a career counselor.