Searching for a graduate school is very different than searching for a college. There are different elements to consider as you pursue a more specialized course of study. Use the following criteria to help guide your decision making:

• The reputation and/or rankings of the university
• The reputation and/or rankings of the specific department
• The curriculum, length of time it takes to complete the degree, and course/research requirements
• The faculty members and their individual research interests
• The number of students and percentage of applicants accepted
• The location and size of the university
• The cost of the program, funding and financial assistance
• Success of the department’s graduates

There are many helpful resources for researching and evaluating graduate programs. Consider the following:

• Faculty – Faculty often know many of the best programs in their discipline and even know people within those programs. Be sure to consult your faculty about your ideas.
• Career and Post-Graduate Development – A large collection of books and directories are housed in the Career Library. Advisors are available to help you navigate the application process.
• Students – Talk to students currently enrolled in the programs in which you are interested. Get their perspective on the school, program, faculty, campus culture and quality of life for graduate students.
• Campus Visits – If you can afford to go, visit the university before accepting an offer of admission. Some programs will support your travel once you have been accepted.
• Websites – Most graduate schools have their own websites with information on their programs, admission requirements, and applications to download. Some general sites for researching programs include:
• Grad Schools.com 

• Peterson’s 

• Princeton Review 
• US News and World Report