Required Coursework
Course Offerings
A Typical Course Load
Program Flexibility in Coursework
Preliminary / Qualifying Exams?
What is the structure in each program?
How many times can you retake the exam?
It is proposal-based? written? oral? combination?
Do you need to take area exams?
Graduate Student Manual
Have you looked at the policies in the manual?
What are major dates and deadlines in the department?
Mentor/Mentee Contract
Does your mentor have a clear outline of expectations?
Does your mentor offer Individual Development Plans (IDPs)?
What is an IDP? (Link)
Lab Equipment and Facilities
Does the department have access to the facilities you need for your research?
Financial Support for Conferences
Does the department give Travel Awards?
Departmental Graduate Student Organization
Is there an active GSO for your department?
Do they offer professional development? social activities?
Lab Culture vs Department Culture
How does the advisor's atmosphere compare to the overall feel of the department or college?
Interdisciplinary Opportunities.
Coursework in other departments.
Collaborations in other departments.
Professional Development Opportunities.
Workshops (Grant Writing, Funding, etc.)
Seminars
Conferences
On-campus writing help
Financial Support for Conferences.
Does the college give Travel Awards?
Graduate Student Organizations - both professional and social.
Professional societies, volunteering, intramurals, etc.
Library Resources
Is there a writing center?
What resources does the Library have for online articles?
Fitness and Recreation
Cultural Centers
Mental Health Services
Health Services
Is therapy covered under student insurance?
Insurance
Do you get a stipend?
Is insurance different if you are on a fellowship vs assistantship?
Do you have to go to the on-campus facility or can you see a local doctor / telehealth?
Housing
Cost, Availability, Commute to Campus
Cost of Living
Overall, can you support the lifestyle you want with your graduate income?
Accessibility / Location
Are you near an airport?
Do you need a car?
Are you in a city? town? rural area?
Local Demographics