Selecting a Graduate School
Become familiar with faculty and their research.
Talk to faculty members and take a look at recent books and articles written by them. Also, take into account the academic reputation and ranking of the department you are interested in at the college or university that you are considering. A school may be ranked highly overall, but the department you are interested in may not be. Consider a university or college because of its departmental ranking, not just its overall ranking. Make sure you know why it is highly ranked.
Consider the cost and availability of financial aid.
Keep in mind the entire cost of attending a school in that community and compare that amount with the available support. Some schools may be out of your price range and may not offer sufficient aid.
Investigate the environment of the university or college.
Is there an environment of support for graduate students? Are there groups or other support services for a diverse population of graduate students? Graduate school is hard enough without outside obstacles. Don't walk into any surprises.
Consider the geographic location.
Remember that you may be in a setting for more than a couple of years. You will work best in a comfortable environment.
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