Choosing a Grad School | Welcome to CSO

Before you begin applications, it's crucial to deeply reflect on two major decisions:

What field or specialization you want to pursue
Which programs (not just universities!) are the best fit for your goals

General Tips for Choosing the Right Program

Graduate school is a major investment of time, energy, and money. Make your decision based on fit, not fame. Here's what to consider:

✅ 1. Academic & Career Alignment

Ask:

What specific issues or questions do I want to explore?
What types of jobs do I want after this degree?
Will this program equip me with the right skills, mindset, and network?

🎓 Remember: A Master's in "Development Studies" can vary widely across institutions — some emphasize economics, others sociology or fieldwork. Always go beyond the program title.

✅ 2. Program Focus & Curriculum

Thoroughly explore the:

Core & elective courses
Faculty expertise
Capstone/thesis/project options
Research centers and labs
Special tracks or concentrations
Balance of theory vs. applied learning

📌 Tip: Many students regret applying to programs they didn't properly research — avoid this by reading course lists, checking recent student projects, and browsing faculty profiles.

✅ 3. Post-Graduation Outcomes

Explore:

Where do graduates work/study next?
Are there practical components (e.g., internships, placements)?
Is there a strong alumni network?

💼 Look for programs that prepare you for the career you want — not just ones that sound impressive.

✅ 4. Funding Opportunities

Check:

Are scholarships or assistantships available?
Is funding guaranteed or competitive?
What is the cost of living in the location?

🎯 Programs that support you financially also tend to invest more in your academic success.

✅ 5. University & Country Context

Do visa or post-study work rules suit your goals?
Is the academic culture collaborative or competitive?
Can you work part-time or gain experience during the program?

🌍 Context matters — not just for academics, but for your wellbeing, network, and future plans.

💡 Use AI to Support Your Program Search

Try these prompts:

"List Master's programs in Psychology with a focus on trauma-informed practice."

"Compare the MPA at LSE and the MPP at Oxford — what are the key differences?"

"Find Development Studies programs with fieldwork opportunities in South Asia."

These can help you go beyond rankings and explore real content.

📚 Explore Field-Specific Graduate Study Guides

(similar to: Graduate Studies Guidebooks | Advising at LUMS)

Final Reminders

Choose a program that excites you — not just one that seems "safe" or "popular."
Take time to compare program focus areas; even within the same university, two programs can be completely different.
Don't just rely on university rankings — focus on program content, community, and outcomes.
Reach out to alumni and attend info sessions to hear from real experiences.

🤝 CSO Can Help

📆 Book a 1-on-1 advising session for guidance on field/program selection

🎓 Keep a lookout for our Grad Study Launchpad events (sign up to get specialized reminders for these here)

📘 Browse our Field-Specific Guides to get started