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EIU Career Services

Graduate/Professional School Prep

grad schoolIs grad school for me?

Graduate and professional schools are for people who need additional credentials beyond an undergraduate degree to reach their career goals. The decision of whether or not to extend your education should be made after careful weighing of options and examining your career goals.

 

  • What do I want to do after grad school?
  • Does it require an advanced degree?
  • Should I take a year off?
  • Am I better off getting practical experience instead?
  • Am I afraid of burnout?
  • Do I have job prospects?
  • Am I sure what I want to study?
  • Can I afford more schooling right now?
  • Admission Standards 
    Find out the program requirements: Are your grades acceptable? Are extra activities or work experience required? How is admission determined? Are exams required?
  • Geography 
    Choose a place where you'll feel comfortable and where you can afford living. If you plan to relocate with a significant other or a family, consider related factors such as the job market, children's schools, and the region's lifestyle. Is it a good fit?
  • Cost 
    Determine the cost of the program, including living expenses. Can you afford it? Is financial aid available and do you qualify? Are there any paid teaching or research positions available at the school?
  • Accessibility 
    Determine how easy it will be to get the classes you want and their availability at the time you need them. How is the commute? Is distance education offered?
  • Certification/Accreditation 
    It's vital that the program you choose be accepted in the field you are pursuing. Find out what accreditations, certifications, or licenses are necessary in your field and make sure your chosen program meets any national, state, or local guidelines.
  • Program 
    What does the program entail? Does it fit your needs and the needs of your chosen profession? Will it adequately prepare you for the next step?
  • Time 
    Find out how long it usually takes students to complete the program and determine if this timeline works for you.
  • Reputation 
    Look into the reputation of the program as well as the school. It is important that the program you choose is respected and well received.
  • Faculty 
    This goes along with reputation. Are the faculty respected in their fields? Are they current with the latest theories and trends?
  • Employment Statistics 
    Investigate the employment stats for graduates of this program. Are people being hired in their chosen field? What salaries are graduates being offered?

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Contact Information

Hours

Monday-Friday
8:00am-4:30pm

Career Services

Eastern Illinois University
1301 Human Services
Charleston, IL 61920
217-581-2412
careers@eiu.edu


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