Considering Graduate School?

Do some serious soul-searching first and consider the following information

Graduate school is an additional two to six years or more of schooling after the completion of a Bachelor's degree. The student works toward either a Masters Degree (M.A.) or a Doctorate (Ph.D). A Masters Degree requires a minimum of two years after the completion of a Bachelor's degree, while a Ph.D. requires a minimum of four years. In a traditional masters program, students take courses, do a major project (e.g., research thesis, a major literature review/critique), and write and defend the project. In a Ph.D. program, however, students normally take courses, pass comprehensive examinations, conduct original research, and write and defend their dissertation.

Graduate school is a big step. Like anything else, there are a lot of great things about getting an advanced degree: it is intellectually challenging; it is possible to gain immense personal satisfaction from your work and studies; some careers require graduate degrees for entry; and having an advanced degree may create opportunities for increased pay.

However, grad school is time consuming in the sense that it takes anywhere from 2 - 6 years or more. Also, it can be expensive and stressful.

How do you know if graduate school is right for you?

Ask yourself some important questions before making any decisions:

• What do you plan to do with your graduate degree?
• Why do you want to pursue this field?
• When should you start preparing for grad school?
• What schools should you apply to?
• Who do you know that works in your area(s) of interest?
• How well prepared for graduate school are you?

Further Information About Graduate School

Applying for Graduate School Timeline
Frequently Asked Questions About Graduate School
Helpful Graduate School Links 
Admissions: Helpful Hints