Whether to attend graduate/professional school now or after several years is a difficult decision. Add to this the issue of attending full or part-time and the process becomes more complex.
Some graduate/professional programs may require or desire related work experience as admission criteria. Some offer a more in depth and challenging program to full-time students than part-time students. Finally, there are programs designed to meet the needs of specific local industries rather than appeal to graduate students at large.
The factors you consider should include:
- Your values and interests
- Financials
- Location and size
- Program type
- Quality of the program
- Career opportunities
Regardless of your circumstances, we recommend you seek objective outside assistance to help you make an informed decision. As you begin your research into different programs, consider the following areas and questions.
Your values and interests
- What are you accustomed to?
- Do you want a change in your environment?
- In what type of setting are you comfortable (i.e. large/small, urban/rural location)?
- With what type of people do you feel comfortable?
- Do you have the necessary interest and ability to pursue graduate school?
- Think about how much value you place on others' advice.
- Why do you want to go to graduate school? Examine your career goals and objectives.
- Are your goals realistic?
- Is graduate school necessary to accomplish your goals?
- Is graduate school necessary for the career field that interests you?
- Have you investigated career opportunities available to you at every educational level?
- What are the job prospects in the career field you are interested in at each degree level?
- What outcome do you expect if you get more education?
- What will you gain and what will you give up if you attend graduate school?
- What if you are not accepted into a graduate program?
- Have you applied to more than one program?
- Do you fully meet the requirements for at least one of the programs you've applied for?
Financials
- Look for hidden costs. Find out how many times tuition has increased and/or room and board have risen in the past few years.
- How does the cost of living compare in the area?
- What are the opportunities for assistantships or fellowships?
- Do they extend beyond the first year?
Location and Size
- Look at the size and location of the school, department and city.
- What is the proximity to family and friends?
- Are there residency requirements?
- How available is housing?
- Are there recreational facilities?
Program Type
- What is the number of courses required for the degree?
- Is a thesis or exam required for a Master's degree?
- Is there a language requirement? How can it be fulfilled?
- How long will it take to complete the degree program?
Program Quality
- What is their commitment to research and scholarship?
- What is the reputation of the school, department, faculty, alumni
- What are the admissions standards?
- Who accredits the degree program?
- What are the library holdings in your field at the school and nearby libraries?
Career Opportunities
- What services are available to assist me in my job search?
- What has been the success of recent graduates?
- Is the school's ability to help me find a job limited to its geographic location?
- How do employers view graduates from this program?