Graduate school involves specialized, concentrated study in one area. Some of the hallmarks of graduate education are:

  • Research-Investigate and contribute to your chosen field of knowledge through collaboration with faculty and peers.
  • New knowledge-Study the latest information at the frontier of your discipline.
  • Expertise-Build and refine knowledge base and become a subject area expert.
  • Problem solving-Apply advanced theories developed in the classroom to real world situations.
  • Internships-Supplement classroom training with real-world professional experience.
  • Professional interaction-Develop faculty mentored relationships and learn how to network with colleagues.

Types of Masters-Level Education

Professional (e.g. MSW, MBA, Ed.M., MPH, M.Arch., MLS, MM, MUP)

  • Focuses on skills to practice a profession
  • Leads to a terminal degree
  • One to three years full-time study

Research (e.g. MA, MS)

  • Thesis project or comprehensive exam required as the capstone experience
  • Leads to much higher salaries in some fields, such as engineering
  • One to two years full-time study

Types of Doctoral-Level Education

Professional (e.g. MD, JD, DDS)

  • Focuses on skills to practice a profession
  • Three to four years full-time study
  • Some are entry-level (no bachelor's degree) 6-year programs (e.g. Pharm. D, DPT)
  • At the University at Buffalo, these degrees are offered by the institution's respective professional schools

Research (e.g. PhD, EdD, AuD)

  • Focuses on the development of a strong discipline-specific theoretical base
  • Coursework and research
  • Four to six years of full-time study
  • Written and oral examinations
  • Dissertation

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Graduate Program

Offerings - Does the institution offer the degree program you want?

Quality of faculty- A quality program begins with quality faculty. It may be worthwhile to attend a less prestigious institution to work with an exceptional faculty member.

Reputation - Check the rankings specific to your field of interest, not just the overall institution rankings.

Facilities - Investigate the quality and number of laboratories, research and computer facilities, and libraries.

Housing - Determine if there are residences for graduate students.

Alumni and current students - Establish what undergraduate institutions alumni and current students attended and their level of success after completing the graduate degrees.

Location - Certain majors lend themselves to specific locations and environments - plus, you need to consider what is convenient for your lifestyle.

Cost - Determine availability of assistantship or fellowship money relative to the cost of tuition and living expenses.

Internships - Assess the quantity and quality of internship opportunities.

Time to Completion - Question your chosen department about the average time it takes students to complete their degree.

Placement and career services - Consider the placement record for graduates of your program of interest.