Deciding on graduate school is a major move, but you don’t have to do it alone. The Career Readiness team is here to help you determine if an advanced degree aligns with your career goals and guide you through every step of the application process. Connect with us to turn your questions into a confident choice.
Graduate school isn’t just "more school"—it’s a major career investment. It requires a serious commitment of your time, finances, and energy. To ensure this is the right next step for you, it helps to look beyond the coursework and consider how an advanced degree fits into your bigger picture.
Be clear about your motivation for pursuing an advanced degree.
Are you aiming for a Master’s (MS, MA) or a Doctorate (PhD, Ed.D.)?
Do you want online, in-person, or a hybrid experience?
Look into financial aid, scholarships, and assistantships.
How does this degree move you toward your long-term goals?
Could gaining experience before grad school strengthen your application and career clarity?
Could certifications, professional development, or work experience help you reach your goals without a graduate degree?
When choosing a graduate program, keep these factors in mind:
Transforming your ambition into an acceptance letter starts with organization. Most graduate admissions rely on a core set of materials to evaluate your potential; use this checklist to gather what you need to get your foot in the door.
Applying to grad school can feel like a lot but breaking it down makes it manageable. Here’s what most applications include:
Some programs require both a departmental and institutional application.
Unofficial transcripts are usually fine for applying; official transcripts are needed before enrolling.
Show why you chose this path and how the program helps you reach your goals. Professors, Eberly College Writing Studio, and the Career Readiness team can help.
Fees vary. Some programs waive fees if you apply early or ask admissions.
Most schools use the FAFSA to determine need-based funding eligibility.
Typically 3–5 letters from faculty, TAs, or supervisors.
More common for doctoral programs, but usually not required for Master’s programs.
Some programs require entrance exams. Plan ahead to study, test, and submit scores on time.
The Career Readiness Team is here to support your career and professional development year-round. Our services are available both in-person and remotely to meet your needs.
Looking for more ways to prepare? These tools can help you feel confident and make the most of career fairs and networking events. Use what’s helpful to you. There is no pressure to go through them all.
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