Pre-Graduate School

Overview

At Rice, a large number of students consider attending graduate or professional school. Often they seek to gain additional knowledge in a field of interest, expand career opportunities and increase earning potential, or work closely with experts in a particular discipline. In fact, in response to the 2012 Senior Exit Survey, 36% of Rice graduating seniors indicated that they would attend graduate or professional school immediately after graduation. Another 47% indicated that they would pursue advanced study at some point in the future.

Before making the decision to attend graduate school, carefully reflect on your reasons for continuing your education.

Weigh the time commitment, financial considerations, personal adjustments and sacrifices, and readiness to pursue graduate level work.
Assess the value of a graduate degree in terms of earning potential, entry into a profession, advancement, and competitiveness.
Seek guidance from faculty, alumni, professionals in the field, academic and career advisors, and current graduate students.

PLEASE READ IF YOU ARE SCHEDULING A PRE-GRADUATE ADVISING APPT.
As you prepare for your pre-graduation advising appointment, we encourage you to take a few steps to ensure a productive and efficient meeting. If you are interested in Pre-Master's programs, please schedule a pre-graduation advising appointment.
For those interested in PhD programs, we recommend meeting with a Major Advisor specializing in that area. Rice Major Advisor List
To ensure a productive and efficient advising session, please consider the following steps:

Be Specific in Your Requests: Arrive with clear questions or topics you would like to discuss. This will allow us to focus on your specific needs and provide the most relevant guidance. (Please state what you would like to discuss in the comment section)
Conduct Research in Advance: Please research your post-graduation options ahead of time. This includes familiarizing yourself with application processes, deadlines, and program requirements.
Bring a List of Schools/Programs: If you are considering further education, come prepared with a list of schools or programs that interest you. This will enable us to tailor our advice and ensure we address all pertinent details.

Resources around Campus to utilize:

Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies (GPS)-If interested in Research Programs, 4+1 programs, grad-level inquiries
Center for Career Development (CCD)- If interested in Career exploration and professional development
Social Sciences Research Institute (SSRI)- If interested in Graduate student funding
Rice Research Experiences for Undergrads (REU)- If interested in Research opportunities