Graduate/Professional School
Considerations
Before making the decision to attend graduate or professional school, consider these questions:
- Do you have a clear idea of the career you want to pursue? Does this career require an advanced degree?
- Are you aware of the career areas for which an advanced degree will prepare you? Do you know the employment outlook for these fields?
- Will the time and money spent on graduate school be justified in comparison to the money and experience you would earn if you take a job immediately after graduation?
- Have you discussed your plans with faculty, professors, or advisors?
- Have you talked with professionals currently employed in your career field of interest to have your questions answered about the career and requirements for entering the field?
- Who wants you to attend graduate school? Are your interests the primary motivation? Or are you responding to advice from parents and friends?
- What are the requirements for admission to the graduate or professional school programs you are considering?
Attending graduate school can be a positive choice when:
- Further education is necessary in order to attain your career goal
- An advanced degree will enhance your career opportunities
- The additional education/training would provide you with personal satisfaction
Attending graduate school may be a mistake if the purpose is to:
- Postpone making a career decision and entering the job market
- Avoid leaving the school environment
Evaluating programs
- The Career Center has a number of written resources for graduate school research. Consider these factors:
- How long will the program take to finish?
- What are the course requirements? Do they meet your needs?
- What is the cost? Is this feasible given your situation?
- What are the resources and facilities of the university?
- What financial assistance is available?
- What is the geographic location? What is the housing situation/cost?
- Is the program accredited?
Once you have completed your research on programs, contact the schools for the following information:
- Application for admission (including information about required graduate admissions exams)
- Financial aid information (including scholarship, assistantship and fellowship information)
- Specific information about the program you are considering
For more information on graduate school, see our guides:
Helpful web links for graduate school research, online practice tests & courses, and additional information