Apply to Graduate School
Graduate study in engineering and computer science can open doors to advanced careers, research opportunities, and personal growth鈥攂ut the process of choosing and applying can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through key decisions, from exploring programs to preparing your application, so you can find the right path and set yourself up for success.听
1. Why Graduate School?听
The first step is asking why. Strong reasons include advancing toward a specific career path, deepening expertise, increasing financial potential, or contributing to your field. Avoid weak reasons such as outside pressure, following friends, delaying "the real world," or simply trying to 鈥減rove yourself.鈥
2. Master鈥檚 or Ph.D.?
A master鈥檚 usually takes 2鈥3 years, may require self-funding, and often leads to strong industry roles. A Ph.D. typically lasts 4鈥6 years, is research-intensive, and is usually funded. It鈥檚 a great option for students interested in research, academia, leadership, or entrepreneurship. Your decision should match both your goals and the norms of your discipline.
3. Exploring Programs and Schools
Rankings aren鈥檛 everything. Check department websites for program details, degree milestones, funding, and student support. Look for profiles of current students and alumni鈥攖hese give you insight into life in the program and career outcomes.
4. The Role of Faculty Advisors
Your faculty advisor will have the biggest impact on your graduate school experience. Research their mentorship style, lab alumni, publications, and expectations for students. Don鈥檛 get dazzled by the project鈥攎ake sure the person is a good fit.
5. Building Connections with Faculty
Connections matter. Join research projects, attend conferences, and participate in preview days. When reaching out by email, keep it short, reference their work, and explain what you can contribute. If you don鈥檛 hear back, follow up politely.
6. Crafting a Strong Application
Most applications include GRE scores, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Stay organized with deadlines and requirements鈥攅ach program may have different expectations. Preparing early is key. You will need to prepare and take the GRE while also in school, so budget your time wisely. 听
7. Letters of Recommendation
The best letters come from faculty you鈥檝e done research with or employers in your field. Give them plenty of notice and provide a list of your accomplishments, your CV, and the schools you鈥檙e applying to. Make it easy for them to write you a strong letter. Connect with your CU Engineering faculty and the Engineering Career Hub advising team to review your personal statement and application materials.听
8. Writing the Personal Statement
Your statement is where you stand out. Go beyond career goals鈥攕how grit, highlight faculty you鈥檇 like to work with, and demonstrate what you鈥檒l contribute to the program. Avoid clich茅s and focus on telling your authentic story.
9. Interview Weekends
Campus visits and interview weekends are about fit. Be professional, connect with peers, and ask about cost of living, neighborhoods, and student life. Use these visits to imagine yourself as part of the community.
10. The Happiness Factor
Success in graduate school isn鈥檛 just academic鈥攊t鈥檚 about balance. Do current students seem happy? Do faculty support hobbies, vacations, and work-life balance? Choose a program where you can thrive both professionally and personally.
With a well-reasoned plan for research, study, and career return-on-investment, graduate study in engineering and computer science can be an amazing professional experience that elevates your professional trajectory. Connect with your CU Engineering faculty and Engineering Career Hub advisors for guidance!听