Graduate & Professional School

Pursuing an advanced degree is a meaningful step—and it doesn’t have to happen immediately after earning your bachelor’s degree. Many students choose to gain work experience first, explore different paths, and return to graduate or professional school when they’re more certain of their professional goals. 

Whether you plan to apply right away or years down the road, Drake’s Career Services teams is here to help you understand your options and support you through the process.  

Graduate School vs. Professional School: What’s the Difference? 

Graduate programs are typically academic in focus and often emphasize theory, research, and the creation of new knowledge. These include master’s degrees, such as an MA, MS, or MFA, and doctoral degrees, such as a Ph.D. or Ed.D. Students in graduate programs often go on to careers in academia, research, public policy, or specialized industry roles. 

Professional programs are designed to prepare you for specific careers that require licensure or hyper-specialized training. These include degrees like the JD (law), MD (medicine), DVM (veterinary medicine), PharmD (pharmacy) and others such as the MBA (Master of Business Administration) or MPH (Master of Public Health). While professional programs still involve rigorous coursework, the focus is on practical skills, applied knowledge, and professional readiness. 

Not sure which path fits you best? Career Services can help you explore both options based on your interests and goals. 

What You’ll Need to Apply 

Graduate and professional school applications vary, but most require some combination of the following: 

• A formal application for admission 
• Some schools require two applications: one to the school and one to the specific program 
• Official transcripts from every school you have previously attended or earned college credit from 
• This might include high school dual-credit courses if you earned college credit through a specific community college, but does not include credits earned through AP courses. 
• Entrance exam scores if necessary 
• These include the GRE, LSAT, MCAT, etc. 
• Application fee  
• Letters of recommendation 
• A resume or CV, or a personal or goal statement 
• A statement of philosophy regarding your area of interest 
• Assistantship application 
• Application interview 
• Written essay 

Requirements for admission into each program can differ significantly. Review your program’s admission materials and expectations to plan accordingly. 

Timelines 

Every program has its own application cycle, but many students start preparing about a year or two before their anticipated starting date. This gives you time to talk with faculty, request information from schools, and explore funding options like assistantships if needed. 

During the summer or early fall in the year before your anticipated start, begin drafting your personal statement, register and take required entrance exams, and reach out to potential recommenders.  

In the fall, focus on finalizing and submitting your application(s), applying for financial aid, and updating your resume and/or portfolio. 

In the spring leading into your anticipated start, you should be reviewing offers, making decisions, and sending thank-you notes or emails to those who helped you along the way. 

This is not a strict timeline, and it’s okay if yours looks different. Many people apply later in life or apply multiple times. Our Career Services team is here to help you at any stage. 

Choosing the Right Program 

When researching programs, think beyond the basics. Consider the school’s reputation and accreditation, the competitiveness of the program, and whether it offers the specialization and faculty expertise you’re looking for. 

Location, cost, funding availability, program format, and alumni outcomes are all factors that matter, too. Reach out to current students or faculty in your prospective program when possible. These first-hand accounts can help you make an informed decision. 

It’s also helpful to ask questions like: 

• Will I be able to work while enrolled? 
• Does the faculty have research or professional expertise that aligns with my goals? 
• How long will the program take to complete? 
• Is the program in-person? Online? Hybrid? 
• Will this program move me meaningfully toward the kind of life and career I want? 

Writing a Strong Personal Statement 

Your personal statement or your statement of goals is a key part of your application. This is where you get to tell your story—not just what you’ve done, but why it matters and where it’s taking you. 

A strong statement connects your background to the field, shows clear motivation, and demonstrates writing skill and self-awareness. Each school may ask for something slightly different, so it’s important to read the prompts carefully and tailor your essay accordingly. 

Career Services can help you brainstorm, revise, and refine your statement so it reflects who you are and what you hope to contribute.