As much as students love their mountain home, many Mounties desire to continue their education in graduate school. While the Mount offers multiple accredited graduate programs (see below for a comprehensive list), opportunities for gaining a master’s or doctoral degree are abundant. However, researching, finding, and applying to graduate schools can be a difficult process to tackle while you are also juggling completion of your undergraduate degree. Read on for a quick checklist of things to remember when considering graduate school.
- Research Programs: If you have a certain degree or field in mind, you can start researching graduate programs as early as sophomore year. However, students should ideally start researching during their junior year to be best prepared for the application process senior year. In addition to researching the program description and curriculum, pay special attention to the tuition, opportunities for financial aid or assistantships, and any special requirements of the program. If you are applying to multiple schools, an excellent way to keep them organized is to create an Excel spreadsheet that lists each program’s deadlines, requirements, and other relevant information. Note that there is no universal deadline for graduate applications like there is for undergraduate applications. If you are unsure of what programs to research, consider speaking with your faculty advisor or use GradSchools.com to search for programs. The Mount offers these programs:
- Master of Arts in Philosophical Studies
- Master of Arts in Teaching
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Business Administration (one-year program)
- Master of Education in Instructional Leadership
- Master of Education in Reading
- Master of Education in Technology Facilitation
- Master of Health Administration
- Master of Science in Biotechnology and Management
- Master of Science in Sport Management
- Take Required Standardized Tests: Many graduate programs require applicants to submit standardized test scores with their application. Common tests include the GRE for humanities and science programs, the MCAT for students interested in pursuing a medical profession, and the LSAT for students interested in law school. It is recommended to take these the summer before or during senior year so your scores will be ready when you apply.
- Prepare a CV or Resume: If you are applying for graduate school, make sure your resume is updated and proofread. Programs may also prefer a curriculum vitae (CV), which is a longer and more academic style resume. If writing a CV is new to you, considering asking a professor for a copy of his or her CV as a guide. Do not be discouraged if yours is shorter, as undergraduate CVs are most often on the shorter side. The Career Center can also help you draft your CV.
- Letters of Recommendation: Multiple letters of recommendation are almost always required by graduate schools. These letters can come from faculty, internship or job supervisors, or working professionals who can speak to your character. Before you approach someone about a letter of recommendation, prepare copies of your transcript and resume or CV to aid them in the composition of your letter. Remember, you should approach the person writing your letter at least a month before the deadline. Do not wait until the night before it is due!
- Personal Statement: A personal statement is often a standard part of graduate applications. Their length requirements vary, but, regardless of length, your personal statement is a chance to communicate who you are, why you want to be a part of the program, and what your professional goals are. If you had an experience that made your whole outlook on life change, this may be the time to write about it. If your GPA is not where you want it to be, explain why it does not define you as an applicant. Above all else, a well-written personal statement is personal and genuine while also being relevant to the specific program.
For further guidance on any step in the graduate school process, please make an appointment with the Career Center at careercenter@msmary.edu. We would be more than happy to assist you in achieving your graduate school dreams.
