Just like choosing a career, choosing to continue your education is a major life decision. The Walter Center team is here to help you discern if graduate school is right for you, what programs best fit your needs, and ensure you're well-equipped for the challenge.
"Graduate school" is a general term for any education you pursue after earning a bachelor's degree. This can include master's programs (such as a Master of Social Work or Master of Arts), doctoral programs (such as a Ph.D. or Ed.D.), or professional programs, such as law school or medical school. Some programs are focused on original research and writing, while others prepare you for specific careers through hands-on experience or clinical training. Depending on the field, graduate school can take anywhere from one to several years to complete.
There are lots of good reasons to consider grad school:
Attending graduate school may not be the answer if:
Because graduate school requires significant investments of your time, energy, and often your financial resources, it's essential to be sure it will be a beneficial and rewarding experience. Our Career Coaches can help you explore whether earning a graduate degree is right for you.
Applying for grad school can seem like a daunting task—but the Walter Center team is here to help you take it step-by-step:
Just as choosing a career is a major life decision, so is deciding to continue your education. The Walter Center team is here to help you decide whether graduate school is right for you, which programs best fit your needs, and to ensure you're well-equipped for the challenge.
During your time at IU, explore your interests and develop your skills through opportunities such as internships, part-time jobs, research, volunteering, student organizations, and more! These experiences not only enhance your application but also help you clarify your academic interests.
Demonstrate your academic capability to graduate admissions committees by prioritizing your coursework, seeking support as needed, and taking classes that allow you to expand your knowledge of your field. GPA requirements vary by program, but faculty, academic advisors, and you research can help you learn more about these expectations.
In addition to their academic expertise, your professors can also serve as excellent resources for understanding and navigating the graduate school landscape. Start by attending office hours and do your best to stay in touch with your professors after taking their classes. You will likely need around three faculty members to serve as recommenders when applying to graduate programs.
