Once you have identified a specific area of study that interests you, create a list of potential schools using Peterson’s Guide to Graduate Study (in Section 2 of the Career Resource Library) and other catalogs and guides on the Internet, many of which are linked to from this site. Professional associations in many fields frequently provide lists of accredited schools in their field, as well.

From the general directories, you can gather basic information - addresses, entrance exam requirements, degrees awarded. Write to each school you are interested in and request college and department catalogs which detail specific information about the university and the particular degree program(s) you are interested in.

Some graduate admissions offices may supply you with all the information you need, but it is a good idea to correspond with a university’s four major offices to guarantee you will receive all you need: (1) graduate admissions office; (2) departmental office to which you are applying; (3) financial aid office; and (4) housing office. Ask for the graduate catalog, specific information on your department (its curriculum, faculty profiles and research interests), application forms for admission, financial aid, housing, and information about scholarships, loans, fellowships, and assistantships.