Interested in Graduate School?
Graduate schools are looking for individuals who have shown promise in their respective field, but need mentorship and increased knowledge to jump to the next level. Graduate school is not like undergraduate study; while undergraduate education helps you absorb a broad body of knowledge; graduate school is designed for students to study a specific topic in-depth. Generally a thesis or demonstrated practical experience in the field will be required to graduate; doctoral programs require a dissertation.
Research Graduate Programs
There is no perfect graduate program, just a perfect program for you. Determine what you most value in higher education. Create a list of qualities that you want in a program and then prioritize the list.
Items to consider should include:
- Accreditation/Approved Programs
- Potential Advisors/ Mentorship
- Research Opportunities/Interests
- Program set up (day/evening program, prerequisites, centers and institutes)
- Cost, including cost of living, tuition (in state/out of state/private/international)
- Location (in relation to family/friends/networks)
- Transportation options
- Type of degree offered (MA, MS, MEd, MBA, MN, MD, PhD, etc.)
- Field work or practical experience
After you prioritize your list, search for University programs that match your criteria. Seek advice from your current professors, web resources, WOIS, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and professional associations to find potential schools and programs. Read recent journal articles in your field, join a professional organization, and attend Graduate School Fairs to collect further information. Contact the program advisor to discuss your questions and visit the campus and talk to students currently in the program.
List of UW Bothell Graduate Programs
Application Materials
Personal Statement Essay
Each essay needs to be customized to the specific program and error-free. You will want both an expert in your field (faculty) and an editor to read the essay to make sure it well written and addresses the writing prompt. For help in writing essays, make an appointment with the Writing Center.
Transcripts
You will need at least one official transcript from each institution you have attended, some institutions require transcripts be sent to the Department and the Graduate School Admissions office. UW Bothell transcripts are available from the Registrar.
Letter of Recommendation
Generally you will need 3-4 Letters of Recommendation; you will want at least one of your recommenders to be in your field of study. Some schools have specific forms, others require a letter on formal letterhead; follow directions to ensure your recommendations will be read.
Resume or Curricula Vitae (CV)
Standardized Entrance Exam
Some programs require scores from an entrance exam, others do not. Below is a list of the most common exams with what fields typically require each test.
Other Information
Tips for students still completing an undergraduate degree:
- Start early on the application process: Start researching programs and prepare for any standardized test in advance.
- Ask for Letters of Recommendation from your Professors now while enrolled and your work in fresh in their mind.
- Keep writing samples (scholarly or creative) or a portfolio of your research.
- Get involved in undergraduate research, conference presentations and professional publications.
- Submit your application 30 days before the official deadline. You can then verify that all of your application material arrived and you will have time to submit anything missing.
Deadlines:
- Deadlines for programs vary; application deadlines for fall term can be as early as November of the previous year.