Steps to researching post-graduate program options

Choosing a post-graduate program option is not a simple task, but it’s truly an important one. You’ve already decided that you want to leverage your existing education and gain a specialization to help you land your dream job, but now what? Here are a few steps to consider when researching your post-graduate program options: 
 

1. Consider what career path you want to pursue. The first and foremost important step is to decide the career path you want to take. Ask yourself these questions: What does my dream career look like? What skills do I need to accomplish my goals? What experience do I need? What will help make me stand out in the workforce crowd? Once you have answered these questions, you can start mapping your pathway to achieving academic and career success. 

2. Determine what type of graduate program best fits you. You’ll need to decide whether you’d like to pursue a Graduate Certificate or a Master’s Degree. Both post-graduate options offering a unique academic background, so it’s important to note the differences and find out which is the best fit for you. Read this blog to find out more about how Graduate Certificates and Master’s Degrees differ. 
    

3. Find out which schools have programs to help you reach your career goals. Now that you’ve narrowed down your career path and which type of post-graduate program best fits you, research post-secondary schools that have what you’re looking for. Consider the location of the institution, class sizes, scholarships or funding available, what kind of experiential learning you’ll receive, how long the program will take you to complete, flexible delivery options and even career services after you graduate. Try to narrow down your choices to three choices at most, so you don’t get too overwhelmed with the rest of the research process. 
    

4. Talk to faculty members and ask lots of questions. To ultimately help you make your final choice on the post-graduate program you’ll take, one of the best sources of information is the program’s faculty members. Where can you speak with faculty members? Make sure to check out the post-secondary school’s event schedule and see if they host open houses or other recruitment events. Open houses typically host program sessions where you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the program as well as ask your questions to faculty members. You may even have the opportunity to check out the spaces in which you’ll be studying and what resources and tools that you’ll get to utilize. 

5. Talk to past students about the post-grad programs you’re considering.  Another great source of information is to speak with graduates who have taken the programs you’re interested in. Ask faculty members to connect you with past students who would be willing to tell you all about their experience and how it’s helped them land their careers. 
    

6. Review the admission requirements and what you need to finalize your application. Once you’ve decided on a post-graduate program and finalized which school you want to go to, it’s time to review the admission requirements carefully to ensure you meet the criteria. Are there any subjects that you may need a refresher on? Are there any post-admission requirements that you’ll need to work toward? Do you need any documentation for your application to prove your eligibility? If you feel like you have everything you need, then you’re all set to apply and get started on reaching your career goals.