Graduate School

Thinking of continuing your education after you graduate from college? There are many reasons you might want to consider graduate school. Not only can an advanced degree open opportunities in your field of interest, but post-graduate study can help you develop technical advancement and communication skills, earn credibility in your field, gain hands on experience, and establish yourself as a professional.

There are are a variety of advanced degrees. Take plenty of times considering the degree you want to pursue and where you want to pursue it....

1. Master's Degree (MA, MPP, MBA, MFA): The most common type of graduate degree is a master’s degree. Typically consisting of one to two years of study, Master’s programs cover a wide variety of specialties, including arts and humanities (MA or MFA), science and technology (MS), and business (MBA).

2. Juris Doctorate (JD): A three year program (full time) for students who want to become a lawyer.

3. Doctoral Degree (PhD): A doctoral degree can be completed in a large number of disciplines, including psychology, history, computer science, and engineering. These degrees are also a requirement for anyone wishing to become a professor or to have a research career in academia.

4. Doctor of Medicine Degree (MD): A four-year program combining coursework with clinical practice, medical school expands on the knowledge gained during an undergraduate education and develops the skills needed for a career as a physician.

5. Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree (DDS): A DDS program is a requirement for those who wish to become dentists. Structured as a four-year program combining clinical practice and academic study, dental school teaches dental anatomy and patient care and prepares aspiring dentists for a career as clinicians.

Once you have chosen a route, there are a list of requirements that are needed to apply to post-graduate programs.

1. Most degrees require you to take an entrance exam: GRE (Master's degrees), MCAT (Medical School), GMAT (Business School), and LSAT (Law School).

2. Make sure you have at least 2-3 letters of recommendation: Most schools require at least one letter from an academic advisor/professor.

3. Transcripts from all higher ed institutions attended.

4. Personal Statement/ Statement of Intent: This is the most important part of your application! Here is where you have an opportunity to stand out from the crowd and advocate for why you would be a great fit for the institution and your desired field of study. Applicants should highlight their academic achievements, work experience, awards, and understanding of the field.

Planning for grad school can be an overwhelming experience for many students, especially low-income and first-generation students. Click on the link below for a great resource to help guide you through the process:

How to Prep for Grad School if you are poor

Additional Resources:

1. https://www.gograd.org/resources/grad-school-admissions/

2. http://idealistgradschool.org/grad-school-financial-aid-101/

3. http://gradresources.org/

4. https://www.princetonreview.com/grad-school

5. https://gradschool.duke.edu/student-life/student-resources

6. https://niu.edu/engagedlearning/more-opportunities/grad-school-resources.shtml

7. https://www.vistacampus.gov/sites/default/files/legacy/87/moddata/forum/577/15026/Grad_School_Tip_Sheet.pdf

8. http://www.ets.org/gre

9. http://nagps.org/benefits-resources/resources/

10. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-graduate-schools/paying

11. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-graduate-schools/applying

12. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-graduate-schools/gre

13. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-law-schools/articles/2018-06-11/10-key-differences-between-the-lsat-and-gre

13. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/articles/2015/01/29/consider-how-business-schools-weigh-the-gmat-gre