Looking for a quality graduate program? It seems like everyone’s talking about the best places to apply and how competitive admissions have gotten, but you need to take it one step further and figure out which graduate program is right for you.
Many people feel there is no clear-cut answer as they hope the process will work itself out eventually. However, this simply isn’t the case. Rather than reaching a decision on how to go about choosing the right graduate program without any effort, consider these six steps that will help you decide what makes sense for your career and future.
1. Think about your goals
While this may seem obvious, it’s a good idea to begin the search for a graduate program with an honest assessment of what you hope to accomplish by earning a Master of Science in Criminal Justice or similar degree. Are you simply hoping to earn more money on the job? Do you plan on pursuing a PhD in the future and want some time spent on research? Perhaps you hope to land your dream job with some extra credentials under your belt. Be as specific as possible and be realistic in what you desire out of your career; this will help solidify whether attending school is right for you.
2. Choose a field of study
Say you have your goals in order. The next step is to figure out what you want to study. In planning for graduate school, you should start by getting a sense of the different careers that are available within your chosen field. A quick online search can provide you with some general information, but it’s helpful to speak with a few professionals in the field as well.
3. Meet some faculty members
Once you’ve narrowed down certain fields, it’s time to get more information on specific schools and programs. This will help you delve further into what you want out of a program and whether your choice of graduate school makes sense for you. Set up meetings with as many individuals as possible and learn what courses are offered, as well as the typical career paths for graduates.
4. Consider cost
Your return on investment is something to think about when choosing a graduate program. Although this typically isn’t an easy thing to calculate, it may help to look at your total expense once the degree is complete in comparison with your salary increase or increase in job opportunities. As mentioned before, be sure to consider the financial aid available; research tuition costs and student aid awards before making any final decisions.
5. Choose a school that fits you
Personal preference takes a lot into account when it comes to graduate school. You should be confident in your choice to continue with your education, as not all schools are created equal and some programs are better than others. Take an honest look at the faculty and facilities of each program you’re considering and choose one that feels right.
6. Talk to current students
Lastly, consider the opinions of current graduate students in the program of interest. While some may prefer staying anonymous, others may not have any problem speaking with you about their experiences or offering advice on how to get ready for your new studies.
7. Consider location
Grad school can be harder if you’re not happy with where you live. If you’re planning on going to grad school in a different state, you’re going to want to consider several factors, primarily, if you will like living there.
For example, you might be a Delta-8 enthusiast. However, Delta-8 is not legal in every state. If you enjoy Delta-8 edibles such as Hometown Hero’s lab-tested and infused Delta-8 gummies, then you’re definitely going to want to go to grad school in a state where Delta-8 is legal.
Conclusion
As you can see, it’s easy to get bogged down with the details of choosing a good graduate program. However, it is possible to make a smart choice that will have positive implications for your future. Be sure to consider all of the above steps as you plan your next move.
