Choosing a Program

Not sure where to start…

Here’s how to build your list of potential schools and programs:

• Peterson’s Guide—available in print form in Career Services or online at http://www.petersons.com/graduate-schools.aspx
• Visit www.PhDs.org for information on Ph.D. Programs
• GradSource.com - Site includes school search, career exploration, and articles
• Gradschools.com - A comprehensive online source to information about graduate school
• Top Master's Employers - from www.collegegrad.com
• Meta-List of Graduate School Information - Compiled by Catapult
• Professors and Advisors
• Alumni
• Practicing Professionals
• Career Services
• Society for Human Resource Management

Check out the following when deciding on a program:

• What is the reputation of the school? Is the program accredited?
• How long will the program take?
• Do you like the focus of the program?
• Are there professors with expertise in my area of interest?
• Are there adequate academic resources at the institution (e.g. library, laboratory, technology, updated equipment)?
• Are you willing to live in this area for 3-5 years?
• What is the professional placement rate of the graduate students?
• What kinds of financial aid are offered?
• What is the cost of the school? Cost of living in the area around the school?
• What kind of social life can the school or community offer?

Research the programs of interest online or request information directly from the school.
Find out the application of admission, financial aid information, and specific information about the program.

Narrow the Search. Rank all the graduate programs you have been researching in order of interest. Divide the schools into:

• Schools you are pretty sure you can get admitted
• Schools you probably can get admitted
• Schools which would be difficult to be admitted

One of the biggest mistakes people make is applying to the best schools. To increase your chances of being accepted choose 2 schools that fit into each of the above categories. Expect to apply to a least 6 programs if your career choice requires an advanced degree.