Frequently Asked Questions

1️⃣ What are some of the reasons I should consider graduate and/or professional school?

2️⃣ What is different about applying to grad vs. undergrad?

3️⃣ What is the difference between a Master’s Degree & Doctoral Degree? Which is right for me?

4️⃣ What should I know about Cal Poly grad programs?

5️⃣ How can I afford more school? What are funding options?

7️⃣ What can I do now to strengthen my application? What does my timeline look like?

8️⃣ What other advice can you share with me?

Deciding to Apply

Network

Attend the California Forum for Diversity in Graduate Education

Use informational interviews

An informational interview is an informal conversation with someone who knows about a work area that interest you. It is a research tool that you can use, in addition to exploring the internet and examining position descriptions, to understand what may be a good fit for you. The objective is to obtain information and advice. It is also a chance to build rapport.

You might interview:

Faculty
Alumni