Researching Programs
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 9 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.
Gather basic information -addresses, entrance exam requirements, degrees awarded, from directories. Follow up with research online at the school or department’s Web site, taking special note of the programs that interest you, curricula, program rankings, size, location and faculty.
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.