Where Should I Study?
Researching graduate schools
Talk to folks with the degree you are interested in to give you insight into which programs & schools might be good for you to explore.
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Check out professional associations and organizations relevant to your interests as they often provide professional and academic information and inspiration. Some even advertise or rank graduate programs related to the field. |
Explore specific schools’/programs’ websites and resources for information.
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For more general searching of graduate school options, check out:
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Petersons.com | |
GradSchools.com | |
GraduateGuide.com |
Questions to consider (depending on your needs/wants/goals)
- Use a Graduate School Tracker to note important information about programs of interest. Add columns to the tracker based on which of these (or other) factors feel most important to you!
| A: Program | B: Logistics | C: “Fit” |
| 1. Who are the faculty? What research is being done? Who teaches the courses? | 1. Is it possible to take classes part-time or defer admission or “stop-out” for a period? | 1. Where is it located? Do I imagine myself living there? Does it mesh with post-grad plans? |
| 2. What is the reputation/ranking of the program/ school? | 2. What support services are available? | 2. What do graduates go on to do (and what is the placement rate)? |
| 3. What is the size of the program? Who advises/mentors students? | 3. What funding is available? (e.g., assistantships/ scholarships) | 3. How diverse and inclusive is the student population/faculty/ community? |
| 4. How long does it typically take to complete the program? | 4. What are the costs? | 4. How competitive are the students? |
| 5. What are course and program curriculum/requirements (e.g., thesis, practicum)? | 5. How extensive are the library holdings and other research facilities? | 5. Are there opportunities to get involved on campus/in the community? |
| 6. Are Master’s and Ph.D. programs separate or not? | 6. What are the admissions requirements and application process/timeline? | 6. When are courses offered? What can be done at virtually? |
- If applicable, how does the program connect with and support licensing?
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Ultimately the most important question is: Can I see myself as a student here?
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Resources for getting answers to questions
The Program’s Website: Many answers can be found directly on the program’s official website, especially under sections like “Admissions,” “Funding,” “Research,” “FAQs,” and “About Us.”
The Program’s Information Sessions: Attend program information sessions, either in-person or virtual, to gain comprehensive insights directly from faculty and staff, ask questions, and meet other prospective students. Some sessions include current students.
Current Students in the Program: Reach out to current students for insights about their personal experiences and day-to-day life in the program. (See strategies to connect above.)
Alumni from the Program: Alumni can provide information about their experience in the program and how it prepared them for their current role, potential career outcomes, and the long-term benefits of the program. (See strategies to connect above.)
The Program Contact (e.g. coordinator/director): The program director can offer detailed information about the program’s structure, funding opportunities, and application process. (Note: This title varies from one program to the next – look for main contact person)
Your Potential PI/Mentor: If you have identified a potential advisor, they can provide detailed information about research opportunities and expectations. This is particularly relevant for Ph.D. programs, where mentorship plays a crucial role.
The resources provided by UW-Madison: As a student, you have amazing resources that include, but are not limited to – SoHE career services, the Writing Center, faculty, staff, fellow students, TAs, etc.
Check out this great video on tips for applying to grad school in general from someone who works in UW’s Graduate School:
Resources mentioned in the video: