1. Before your graduate:

• Take the GRE (general, and the subject if necessary, check with the department)

• Contact and establish faculty/professional references:

  • Give your references all of the information they will need to write a complete and thoughtful letter of recommendation (resume, transcripts, statement of purpose).

  • Waive your rights to see the letter of recommendation (confidential letters carry more weight).

  • Give your references plenty of lead time for writing the letters.

  • Keep the information up to date.

• Gain independent research experience if you can, this will help your decide if you want to continue with graduate (research) education.  Your research sponsor (advisor) will be able to address your research potential and aptitude in their letter of recommendation.  Acknowledge support by any federal agency (e.g. NSF).

2. When you decide to apply:

• Masters or Ph.D?

• Choosing a graduate school. Factors to consider:

  • School that offers both the M.S. and Ph.D. degree programs, or schools that offer only the M.S.

  • location (for fieldwork, or general preference)

  • facilities

  • advisor

  • financial aid: T.A., R.A., versus financial assistance

3. How to apply:

• Before applying:

  • get information about program and list of advisors (Web)

  • read papers by several advisors to see if area of research is of interest

  • write to several potential advisors; don't define your interests to narrowly or too broadly.