There
are many factors to consider when choosing a graduate school.
As with many important life decisions, many factors must be considered
when evaluating programs. Listed below is a brief checklist to
start the process. Be sure to discuss your decision-making strategy
with career counselors, professors and mentors before making a
final decision.
Quality
and Reputation
Speak to faculty and employers in your field of interest to
get impressions of the program. Check with the Career Services
office of your target school to get placement statistics and
information about the employers coming to campus, if appropriate.
Review publications such as the Gourman Report and U.S. News
& World Report's rankings of graduate programs. Check to see
if professional associations have accredited the program.
Availability of Specialty Area
Be sure to check if the program offers the specific type of
courses or specialty areas in your field of interest. Review
the catalog carefully.
Cost
How much financial aide is available? What is the cost per
credit? High cost does not always mean high quality.
Size
and Location
A large university will often provide greater diversity, whereas
smaller settings might provide a smaller faculty to student
ratio. An urban setting might provide greater cultural and
internship opportunities but might also involve a higher cost
of living.
Program
Style
Some programs might offer coursework along with practical
internships/ field experiences as compared to others, which
might be oriented more toward theory and therefore less hands
on.
Student
Body
Publications such as Peterson's Guides to Graduate School
often give age and ethnicity information regarding the makeup
of the current class. Some programs might lack ethnic diversity
or might consist of older more experienced students who are
enrolled in the program more for current job advancement rather
than entrance into the profession. Be sure to select an academic
environment, which will be comfortable for you.
Quality
of Laboratories, Computer Facilities, and Libraries
Be sure to inquire about all the resources and student services
available.
