Graduate School Is another degree worth it?
Another degree? YES! Is Graduate Study for You? Is Graduate Study for You? Future career/job path Investment How do I pay for it?
Degree Options Master’s degree MEng, MASc Other programs Ex: School of Engineering Practice MBA Doctorate (PhD) “Professional” schools Medicine, law
Degrees at a Glance
Job Prospects Law, medicine MBA Project management MEng, MASc Entry-level vs. experienced (2 to 5 years) PhD Project management, R&D Academic (instructor; tenure-track)
When should I begin? Level 3 (or next-to- final year) Recommendation letters
Research Searchable database Searchable database Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada (AUCC) Additional sources
Who decides? Committee of faculty members/professors in the department to which you are applying Goal is to spend the least amount of time reviewing applications Interview?
What do I need? Personal statement Recommendation letters Transcript Curriculum Vita (CV)
Personal Statement BRIEF description of undergrad academics and activities FOCUS ON: Demonstrate that you have researched the department Make connections with research/teaching that is being conducted by current faculty How you will benefit the department
Recommendation letters These MAY be read first by the committee Standard number is two, from faculty members/professors Tips when requesting letters: Provide CV and transcripts Copy of personal statement Electronic copy
Trancripts “Secondary” role in deciding who is accepted into the program
Curriculum Vita (CV) Secondary role Examples McMaster’s Student Success Centre McMaster’s Student Success Centre
Important contacts Graduate secretary (administrative assistant) Faculty member – chair of graduate recruiting Faculty member – graduate studies advisor
Application process School of Graduate Studies/Graduate School Academic department Financial Aid
Other considerations Additional exams Professional schools Medicine, law, business Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
Questions? Schedule an appointment with an ECCS Career Counsellor Jessica Farrell, David Coughlin, Surviving grad school Surviving grad school
JHE A214