To Ph.D. or to M.D…That is the Question

Considering Graduate or Professional School?

Choosing to attend graduate or professional school is a big decision. It’s a process that takes time and persistence. Students who want to pursue post-undergraduate education must start planning early, as many factors go into a successful application. As you explore programs and start the application process, here are some useful tips to remember!

Take time to find the right program fit! 

Is something in your major or academic program drawing you to consider applying to graduate or professional school? Don’t be afraid to start the conversation with advisors or professors in your academic department and think about pathways that might be right for you. UMBC faculty were once where you are right now and will undoubtedly have great insight into the process or connections to programs that might interest you. Use your networks to your advantage! 

Once you research programs that interest you, try to visit those schools – check out in-person and virtual admissions/recruitment events put on by the institutions and connect with the campus. You’ll be able to explore the campus and learn about the surrounding area, housing options, and the studio/classroom/lab facilities. You should ask yourself: “Does the campus seem like the type of environment I would like to spend time in?” 

You’ll also have the chance to connect with program directors, faculty, and current graduate students. You’ll want to consider whether the program has a professor who shares your research areas of interest. Meeting current students is significant if your program will use a “cohort” model – meaning you will work with the same people throughout the program. 

Finally, research class options – some programs will provide more flexible schedule options, including evening, weekend, or online classes, while other programs may only offer classes throughout the day.

Graduate Admissions  

Some graduate and professional programs will require you to complete an entrance exam, like taking the SAT or ACT when applying to UMBC. You should always research to see if an entrance exam is required for your program. Check out the list below for common exams you might be expected to take: 

Dental School: DAT (Dental Admission Test)  

Business and Management Schools: GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test)  

Master’s and Doctoral Programs: GRE (Graduate Record Examination) *Most common graduate admissions exam*  

Law School: LSAT (Law School Admission Test)  

Medical School: MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) 

For graduate programs in the Visual or Performing Arts (such as Master of Fine Arts), you might need to prepare for an audition or portfolio submission of creative work. It’s important to research all the components necessary for any application and make sure you start the application process early!  

Letters of Recommendation – ask early and ask people who know you best! 

Most graduate or professional school applications will require you to submit letters of recommendation. Your recommenders should be individuals who know you well, such as a professor who taught you in several courses or a research mentor. 

Start by setting up a meeting to ask for a recommendation, which will help emphasize how important the letter is to you and give you the chance to provide context and answer questions your prospective recommender might have.  It is also helpful to provide relevant information to your recommenders such as an updated resume or any skills/abilities/notable accomplishments as it relates to your intended goals.

Plan to allow at least two months before the deadline to give your recommenders enough time to complete the recommendation. 

Funding Graduate or Professional School  

Another important aspect to consider is how exactly you will fund your graduate or professional school program. The UMBC Career Center does a great job of breaking down the different components of financing your graduate education. It’s vital to ensure you understand if there are scholarships, grants, financial aid, or graduate assistantships available through the program you are exploring.  

Graduate Programs at UMBC

You also don’t need to leave UMBC to find high-quality graduate education! The Graduate School at UMBC offers a variety of challenging programs to help you reach your academic and professional goals. Degree types include terminal doctorates, as well as Master’s degrees in the sciences, arts, public policy, and professional studies. Browse over 80 graduate degree programs here! Certain majors at UMBC also participate in our Accelerated Program, whereby students with at least a 3.0 GPA can apply to earn credits towards their Bachelor’s degree and a graduate certificate or Master’s degree. Learn more about UMBC’s Accelerated Program here.