So you’re thinking about a Professional or Graduate degree?
Graduate school can be a powerful next step—but it’s not always the right one. Whether you’re considering a Master’s, PhD, MBA, or other advanced degree, the UNC Career Center can help you explore your options, clarify your goals, and prepare strategically for the application process when the time is right for you.
Start Here: Three Key Questions to Ask Yourself
- What are my long-term career goals?
- Does graduate school move me closer to those goals — or is it a detour?
- Do I need a graduate degree for the work I want to do?
- Some fields require one, others reward real-world experience more.
- Is now the right time?
- Applying too early, without clear goals or experience, can cost time and money.
There’s No One “Best” Program—And No One Can Choose It for You
There is no master list of top programs for every student. The right program for you will depend on your goals, academic background, and professional interests. Career Center coaches can help you think through your options—but we can’t (and won’t) tell you where to apply.
Instead, we recommend reverse-engineering your search:
Start with People, Not programs
One of the most effective ways to explore graduate programs is to look at the people doing the kind of work you’d like to do and to see how they got there.
Use tools like LinkedIn or HeelsEngage to:
- Find professionals in roles that interest you
- Explore where they went to graduate school and what degrees they earned
- Look for common pathways or degrees across similar positions
Start Closer to Home
Don’t overlook the incredible knowledge and access you already have right here at UNC. Many of your professors, research mentors, and teaching assistants went through graduate school themselves—and they can offer practical advice on how to navigate the process.
- Is there a faculty member, principal investigator (PI), or graduate TA whose work you admire?
- Look up their academic background (often listed on their department webpage or CV)
- Attend their office hours or request a meeting to ask how they chose their grad program and what they recommend for students exploring the path
- Ask what they know about the landscape of programs, funding models, and what makes a strong applicant in your field
Faculty are often deeply connected within their disciplines—and many are excited to support curious students who are early in the exploration process.
Build a Competitive Profile During Undergrad
You don’t need to have everything figured out. But if graduate school is a future possibility, here’s how you can start preparing now:
| Focus Area | What You Can Do at UNC |
| Explore research | Join a lab, pursue an independent project, or apply for SURF funding. Resource: Office of Undergraduate Research |
| Gain relevant experience | Internships, teaching roles, campus jobs, or student leadership Resources: Handshake, Heel Life, LinkedIn |
| Build faculty relationships | Engage in class, visit office hours, and consider asking about research opportunities |
| Strengthen communication | Visit the Writing Center or share your work at a campus symposium Resource: The UNC Writing Center |
| Track your progress | Maintain a document with your roles, skills, awards, and achievements Resource: The Career Center |
When You’re Ready to Apply
Each graduate program has its own process and requirements, but most applications include:
- A personal statement or statement of purpose
- Resume or academic CV
- Letters of recommendation (typically 2–3)
- Transcripts
- GRE or other standardized test scores (if required)
- Writing samples, portfolios, or program-specific supplements
Reminder: Deadlines often fall between October and January, but can be as late as June for some programs.
How the Career Center Can Support You
While we can’t tell you which program to choose or what will guarantee admission, we can help you:
- Reflect on whether graduate school is the right next step
- Approach program research and networking strategically
- Discuss your written materials from an admissions story and strategy perspective
- Plan clear, actionable next steps that align with your goals
For detailed writing feedback — including structure, tone, and clarity — we encourage you to also visit the UNC Writing Center. Working with both a Writing Center tutor and a Career Coach will give you well-rounded support as you prepare your applications.
After reviewing this page and reflecting on your goals, The Career Center invites you to schedule a Pre-Grad advising appointment through Handshake.
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