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How to Choose a Master's Program
How to choose a master's program is similar to selecting a major for an undergraduate degree or choosing an undergraduate college. There are some key differences, though. Part of choosing a graduate school is looking for professors whose work you admire and with whom you'd like to study. Financial aid is another concern when choosing a program, as some offer full support while others do not.
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1Determine what you would like to study. Deciding to focus on a particular area, such as a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Playwriting or Acting or a Master of Science (MS) in Biology will eliminate a number of schools that do not offer those specific master's programs.Ad
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2Ask professors or advisors at your undergraduate institution for their opinions on various graduate programs in your field. If you've been out of school for some time, you still should contact former professors to ask their opinions.
- If necessary, look for a graduate program that is accredited. For example, your chances of finding a position as a librarian in the United States are higher if you attend a school has a master's degree program that is accredited by the American Library Association.
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3Research the professors at each graduate school to see if any match your academic interests. Unlike undergraduate programs, graduate-level programs are more focused on specific areas, so it is in your best interests to find one that caters to your goals.
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4Find at least 5 professors whose work interests you and fits in with your academic goals. For example, if you want to study playwriting, look for professors whose plays you've enjoyed. If you want to study genetics, look for professors who have made great strides in the field.
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5Write a letter to each professor expressing your interest in the master's program and his or her work. Include a copy of your resume with the letter.
- Be genuine in the letters, and make them meaningful. Don't say you've read a professor's dissertation when you haven't. You want to sound as if you know what you are talking about in regards to each person's work. Express your interest in his or her work and how it relates to your academic interests.
- Always spell-check the letter before sending it.
- Ask the professors if they would be available for a phone conference to discuss the master's program. You may need to be persistent. If you haven't received a response within about 3 weeks, follow up via phone or email.
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6Visit each respective program after you've heard from the professors.
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7Talk to current students in the programs, and ask them how they feel about studying there. Some schools look impressive on paper or have impressive faculty but are not a good fit for every personality.
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8Inquire about research opportunities, teaching fellowships, or internships at each school. If your goal is to become a professor, a program that includes teaching is an absolute must.
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9Visit the school's library and other relevant areas, such as the laboratories, theaters, or media centers. Ideally, a graduate school will offer up-to-date facilities and have a decent research library as well as access to relevant databases.
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10Inquire about financial aid. While many doctorate programs provide full funding, many master's programs do not.
- You may need to take out student loans to attend the master's program if it does not offer fellowships or grants, which can impact your decision.
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11Ask about career services at the school and within the specific programs.
- You may be obtaining a master's degree to advance your career. Ask how many graduates from the program are employed and in what sort of careers.
- Ask what the school does to help students find careers after graduation. Some schools connect students to alumni while others host career fairs.
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