Grad School & Further Education

Furthering your education can be a great way to qualify for more advanced career opportunities, deepen your understanding of a subject, and broaden your community/network. While these are great benefits of graduate school, it is important to really understand what you wish to get out of the experience, as graduate school can be more self-guided and academically challenging in comparison to your undergraduate experience. This guide aims to get you started and equip you with resources to finance your education.

Furthering your education can mean many different things. Whether it is a master’s degree or a PhD, it is important to know the time commitment and goals of each one. This will help you know which one works best for you and your career goals. For a great starting point, check out gradschools.com's school directory.

When choosing a program, it is important to consider several factors that will help you decide if it is right for you:

• Identify your career goals: What is important to you and your development as an artist? What is your “why” when considering furthering your education?
• Faculty expertise: Do you have an interest in their work? 
• Alum careers: What are the alums of the program doing now? Do you see where they are as a goal for yourself?
• Alum network: Do alums engage with the program to educate current students? Will you be able to reach and connect with them?
• Location: Is the program in a city you can see yourself in? Do you see potential for growth there after school?
• Access to faculty and resources: Does the program have valuable resources for you to use (facilities, career services, childcare options, etc.)? Are you able to build relationships with faculty for career guidance?
• Lifestyle fit: Does the program offer classes on days and at times that fit your schedule? What adjustments would you need to make? Does the program offer flexibility for working professionals?
• Financial aid: Does the program offer financial support that fits your needs? Are there scholarships you qualify for? 

You have found your perfect program(s) and are ready to begin the application process. Application requirements vary by school and/or program. A great first step would be to review your preferred options and note their requirements and deadlines. You can also sign up for their admissions newsletter, if that is an option on their site. That way, you can receive information directly from the source. Here are some requirements to consider as you apply:

• Personal statement: We mentioned earlier the importance of having a “why.” This personal statement will help the admissions committee better understand your personal goals as an artist and determine whether you and their program are a good fit. Make sure to draw direct connections between your goals and what their program offers. 
• Portfolio: Your portfolio (visual or written) will be another way for the program to understand your skillset and fit. Make sure you utilize CAPX advising and resources to edit your portfolio.
• Letters of recommendation: Did you make a connection with a current or past faculty member who can speak to your abilities? Recommendations will provide the admissions committee with an outside perspective on your personality and capabilities. Read the section on requesting letters of recommendation in CAPX’s resource on professional etiquette for more information.
• Relevant documents: You will also be expected to submit documents, such as a resume/CV and transcripts.

Just as important as finding the right program is securing financial support to attend it. Speaking with someone from the program will help you understand what aid they offer, such as scholarships, and how to apply for it. You can learn more about types of funding on the Federal Student Aid website.

If you would like support on your journey to finding and applying for graduate school, CAPX is here to help. Schedule an appointment on Handshake with an advisor to review your options.