Super! You have been accepted into the masters degree you applied for. The future of your career certainly looks promising. Now the question is, what will it take to complete the degree on time and with little stress? Let us look at this step-by-step. Returning to school is certainly a longterm commitment which requires months or years of sacrifice and good planning. The good news is that it is possible to take some actions that will make your time in the program more manageable.
Step 1 - Develop your program of study early. In most masters degree programs you need about 36 hours or more to complete your degree. Clarify this information with your department or graduate coordinator. Most graduate schools also have a program of study form for you to complete, to guide you in the program. Each semester or quarter, be sure to enroll in the minimum number of course. If you don't some programs might think you have dropped out of the course. Also, be sure to review future courses and when they are offered so that you don't miss out when they are offered.
Step 2 - Take and finish your courses. However, plan your course load carefully and do not take on too much. Contact your adviser as they are the ones who are there to help you successfully complete your degree. It is a good idea to make an appointment with them at least one each semester to discuss your milestones and any difficulties that you might have in the program.
Step 3 - Pull together your thesis advisement committee. If your department requires you to write a thesis, or research project you may need the input of several faculty members. Consult with your advisor on whom would best serve on your committee to guide you in your research.
Step 4 - Learn more about your new career. While in the program, learn more about the new profession or career you will be embarking on. This could be in the form of internships, research assistant, through your courses, or conducting your own research.
Step 5 - Prepare your thesis. If your department requires you to write a thesis, work with your advisor or committee do develop this. This can be challenging and time consuming but if done well you will be proud of your accomplishments. If you are not required to do a thesis, find out if a comprehensive exam or portfolio is required instead. Some program do give you choices, so find out what they are.
Step 6 - Start doing research on available jobs. Put together a professional portfolio that can include your CV, artifacts, references etc. Highlight your qualifications and best products. Also, you want to keep a log of potential jobs you might apply to so that as you go through the program you will make informed decisions. Do not wait until you graduate to start this research, so that if it takes a while to locate your ideal job you will not become frustrated.
Step 7 - Apply for graduation. At some point during your program of study, apply for graduation. Be sure to check the deadlines. Some come up very early in the program, and you certainly do not want to miss that.
If flexibility is important for you, you might consider taking online classes or enrolling in programs that have options such as evenings and weekends. While it is important to graduate, it is even more important to ensure that the program you graduate from is accredited. No sense graduating with a degree that no one will recognize.
Step 1 - Develop your program of study early. In most masters degree programs you need about 36 hours or more to complete your degree. Clarify this information with your department or graduate coordinator. Most graduate schools also have a program of study form for you to complete, to guide you in the program. Each semester or quarter, be sure to enroll in the minimum number of course. If you don't some programs might think you have dropped out of the course. Also, be sure to review future courses and when they are offered so that you don't miss out when they are offered.
Step 2 - Take and finish your courses. However, plan your course load carefully and do not take on too much. Contact your adviser as they are the ones who are there to help you successfully complete your degree. It is a good idea to make an appointment with them at least one each semester to discuss your milestones and any difficulties that you might have in the program.
Step 3 - Pull together your thesis advisement committee. If your department requires you to write a thesis, or research project you may need the input of several faculty members. Consult with your advisor on whom would best serve on your committee to guide you in your research.
Step 4 - Learn more about your new career. While in the program, learn more about the new profession or career you will be embarking on. This could be in the form of internships, research assistant, through your courses, or conducting your own research.
Step 5 - Prepare your thesis. If your department requires you to write a thesis, work with your advisor or committee do develop this. This can be challenging and time consuming but if done well you will be proud of your accomplishments. If you are not required to do a thesis, find out if a comprehensive exam or portfolio is required instead. Some program do give you choices, so find out what they are.
Step 6 - Start doing research on available jobs. Put together a professional portfolio that can include your CV, artifacts, references etc. Highlight your qualifications and best products. Also, you want to keep a log of potential jobs you might apply to so that as you go through the program you will make informed decisions. Do not wait until you graduate to start this research, so that if it takes a while to locate your ideal job you will not become frustrated.
Step 7 - Apply for graduation. At some point during your program of study, apply for graduation. Be sure to check the deadlines. Some come up very early in the program, and you certainly do not want to miss that.
If flexibility is important for you, you might consider taking online classes or enrolling in programs that have options such as evenings and weekends. While it is important to graduate, it is even more important to ensure that the program you graduate from is accredited. No sense graduating with a degree that no one will recognize.
About the Author:
Sophie Peters is an webmaster for MBA degrees and project management training. Receive information on graduate and business degrees.
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