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Graduate School Applications

Introduction

Postgraduate degree programs (or "grad school") prepare students for in-depth expertise and advanced research in a specific discipline, which can lead to exciting new career opportunities; however, applying to grad school requires careful planning, thoughtful reflection, and a clear understanding of your goals throughout the process.

It's important to remember a successful application requires more than just submitting forms—the process involves showcasing your strengths, experiences, and aspirations in a strategic way that aligns with the goals and objectives of your chosen program. In this module, we'll explore each stage of the application process, from choosing your program to preparing your application materials, to help you build a strong case for your future in graduate school.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this module, you will:

  • Research and identify graduate programs that align with your goals.
  • Craft personal statements that clearly articulate your motivation.
  • Learn strategies to secure strong academic and professional references.
  • Create strong application materials to maximize your success.

To apply for a Master's program, candidates generally need to hold a four-year Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree. It's essential to carefully review the specific admission requirements for each university or program of interest, as these criteria may vary.
This module is part of the Academic Skills Hub series from Sheridan's Learning Services; however, this module is not eligible for Co-Curricular Recognition (CCR). Learn more about which modules are eligible on the Hub's Co-Curricular Recognition (CCR) Guide.

Disclaimer: This guide was developed with support from generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools such as ChatGPT, which assisted in drafting content and brainstorming ideas. All AI-generated content was reviewed, edited, and verified by Learning Services staff for accuracy and relevance, with additional research where needed. We also encourage students to conduct their own research into various graduate programs and consider how AI may impact their academic and career paths.