How to Select a School
General Thoughts
It is critical that you select the right program and the right institution for your graduate studies. This requires careful study, researching and comparing programs and, often, a visit to the school.
Understand that academic disciplines at the graduate level can become tremendously specialized, and certain institutions that offer superb facilities in one sub-discipline may be sadly lacking in other areas. Equally, you cannot simply select an institution based upon it's overall reputation. Sometimes, the finest departments of a particular sub-discipline are found at institutions with which you may not be familiar. Presume nothing! Like a good researcher, approach this task with an open mind, sifting through ALL the evidence before arriving at a conclusion.
While you may have some particular preferences that will limit the institutions which you are prepared to consider (e.g., only schools in the Northeast), there are many other criteria which you need to factor into your decision. Some of these are listed below.
Questions to ask when comparing program:
General program information
What are the admissions requirements? When are applications reviewed? What are the academic requirements for completing the degree? Thesis or dissertation and its defense? Foreign language competency? To what extent does a student plan her own program? How many electives? How do students acquire advisors? Are they assigned or selected? Are there opportunities to acquire practical experience? Teaching or research assistantships? Are fellowships or financial aid available? Based on need or merit? What is the likelihood of your being a recipient?
Faculty
What is the faculty/student ratio? Do faculty members in the department represent a variety of points of view toward the discipline? Are the research interests of the faculty similar to your own?
Facilities
How extensive and available are the labs and other training facilities? Are specialized research facilities available? Are there cooperative programs with other educational, cultural and research institutions?
Students
What is the composition of the graduate class? What is the attrition rate? Are students competitive?
Employment
What career services exist for graduate students? What support is provided for job hunters? What kinds of positions do graduates hold? Are graduates geographically dispersed?
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