How to Research Graduate Programs
You should consider several factors as you evaluate potential graduate schools.
Programs
- Do the school's programs match your interests?
- What is the quality of the faculty? Review faculty web pages for education and research.
- What types of research opportunities exist at each school? How might you contribute?
- What is the quality of the school's students? Review the school's fact book.
- What are the school's available resources (money, financial aid, libraries, technology resources)?
- Review the program's curriculum and services as well as internship and practical experience opportunities.
University Environment
- In what type of environment will you thrive? Urban or suburban?
- What type of resources are available in the area?
Financial Considerations and Options
Contact the school to learn more about:
- Grants and Fellowships
- Teaching and Research Assistantships
- Subsidized Loans
Accreditation
Know what the accreditation status is of the graduate school and program you are researching.
Resources for Graduate School Planning
Check out these resources for additional information
- US News and World Report Annual America's Best Colleges rankings includes rankings for master`s programs.
- Peterson`s Guides to Graduate and Professional Programs, available in the Career Services Career Library, includes all sorts of programs in Business, Sciences, Engineering, Liberal Arts, etc.
- Gradschools.com includes a wealth of information about paying for graduate school, researching programs, etc.
- Use individual university and college web sites to gather information on programs, application, tuition and fees, and faculty. Some applications are done completely online.