Career Options Magazine

Should I apply for graduate study now? Reflect on:

• Your skills, abilities and interests
• Life space and significant relationships (your age and health, partner, children, health of family members)
• Career goals
• Learning goals
• Geography (where you choose to live)
• Finances
• Labour market trends

Where do I start? The first step is research:

• Research can be done online using websites that list numerous programs offered worldwide.
• Universities outline detailed information on their websites.
• Read the information carefully.
• What is the design and structure of a program? (For example: Is it thesis-based or course-based?)
• Review the biographies and research interests of faculty members in the department.
• Will this program match your learning, career and personal goals?
• What are the costs for tuition, books, supplies, travel and living accommodations?
• Review scholarship and assistantship opportunities.
• What are the residency requirements?

Give yourself time:

Applying to a graduate program is not a quick process. If you are also applying for scholarships, extensive research may be required.

Applications may or may not require these components:

• Application form
• Transcripts with grades (from each post-secondary institution you attended)
• Statement of intent or statement of research
• Reference letters
• Résumé or curriculum vitae
• Portfolio
• Autobiography
• Proof that you took the specific courses the department has listed as admission requirements
• Proof of proficiency in the language you will use in your studies
• Qualifying standardized examinations
• Information on available financial resources for your course of study
• Interview(s)
• Audition (often required for performing arts)

References:

• Decide who your referees will be.
• Specific content requested for letters will vary.
• Check websites to clarify to your referees the type of content an appropriate reference should include.
• Meet with individuals to request a reference letter. Discuss the letter with the referee. He or she may be knowledgeable about the department you are applying to, as well as your skills, interests and abilities in the context of this course of study.
• Do not delete or destroy undergraduate assignments, projects or papers! They may be helpful in the future. For example, a referee may request samples of course work (especially for classes where she/he was your instructor), transcripts, a list of school related activities, and information on your volunteer and work experience.

Finances:

• Educational institutions offer funding allotted for prospective and current graduate students. These awards are based on merit (GPA, research and publishing background).
• Admissions departments may review your statement of intent to ensure that your area of research matches designated funding resources.
• There are opportunities for graduate students to apply for paid teaching assistant positions.
• Some departments offer co-op programs where a student can earn income within the learning experience.
• Some employers are interested in the career development of their employees and provide support (in terms of money or time) for ongoing learning.
• Student loans are usually available.

Statement of Intent:

• Applications for graduate school or professional education often require a written statement of intent.
• If you are applying for scholarships, teaching assistantships or bursaries, you may be required to submit similar statements.
• Think about your audience. The purpose of a statement is that it helps the faculty admissions office determine whether you would be an appropriate candidate for their program. They may consider the following:
  • How the program addresses your learning interests: specifically, what you want to study and why.
  • An explanation of how you would function within the department’s environment and culture and alongside faculty and other graduate students.

Standardized Examinations:

• Admission requirements may include standardized examinations.
• Register to write the examination in the spring or summer before you submit your application.
• The format of the examinations is unique. It is essential that you practise using sample questions before you write.
• You may request that results be sent to universities that require them for admission. Note that fees are charged each time results are sent.

As you earn a masters or Ph.D. degree, new career doors may open. At the same time, the investment of time and money can be significant. Solicit advice from friends or co-workers who have taken the route of further learning. Choose a program with interesting content. Study something that you are passionate about. Enjoy the journey!

by Dorothy Ritz