{"id":2573,"date":"2023-04-04T08:51:56","date_gmt":"2023-04-04T15:51:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/?page_id=2573"},"modified":"2026-08-04T17:26:36","modified_gmt":"2026-08-05T00:26:36","slug":"exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/grad-school-advising\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\/","title":{"rendered":"Exploring graduate degrees and programs"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <figure id=\"attachment_7614\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-7614\" style=\"width: 1024px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-7614 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/40\/2023\/11\/alphabet-1024x685.jpg\" alt=\"printer's letter blocks\" width=\"1024\" height=\"685\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-7614\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo by <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/@amadorloureiro?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash\">Amador Loureiro<\/a> on <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/photos\/letter-wood-stamp-lot-BVyNlchWqzs?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash\">Unsplash<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n                        \n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--accordions \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--accordions\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      <div class=\"header-container\">\n\n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--section-title\">\n\n    \n  <h2>\n          The ABC&#8217;s of degree programs\n      <\/h2>\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--description\">\n\n    \n  <p><strong>Exploring graduate programs across the US and abroad can be exciting and daunting at the same time! <\/strong>\u00a0Programs vary by institution and within specific fields. Please take time to carefully research and consider the diverse programs and curriculum to determine which is the best fit for your academic and career goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n      \n    <\/div>\n  \n      <ul>\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-1-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-controls=\"section-1-1-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">MA (Master of Arts)<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-1-EHRK0DysCR\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-1-EHRK0DysCR\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <ul>\n<li><strong>Focus:<\/strong> MA programs typically focus on disciplines within the humanities and social sciences, such as literature, history, sociology, psychology, and fine arts. These programs often emphasize research, critical thinking, and analysis of theories and concepts.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Curriculum:<\/strong> MA programs often have a more flexible curriculum, with a focus on coursework and research in the chosen field of study.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Research:<\/strong> MA programs may require a thesis or capstone project, but this can vary depending on the institution and the specific program.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Length:<\/strong> Usually two years<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-2-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-controls=\"section-1-2-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">MS (Master of Science)<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-2-EHRK0DysCR\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-2-EHRK0DysCR\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <ul>\n<li><strong>Focus:<\/strong> MS (Master of Science): MS programs are commonly found in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. They tend to emphasize technical and practical knowledge, problem-solving, and often involve laboratory work or quantitative research.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Curriculum:<\/strong> MS programs may have a more structured curriculum, with an emphasis on technical or scientific coursework, laboratory work, and possibly a thesis or research project.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Research: <\/strong>MS programs often require a research-based thesis, project, or internship, which is typically more common in STEM fields.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Length:<\/strong> Usually two years<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-3-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-controls=\"section-1-3-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">MBA (Master of Business Administration)<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-3-EHRK0DysCR\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-3-EHRK0DysCR\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <ul>\n<li><strong>Focus:<\/strong> A professional degree primarily focused on business and management.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Curriculum: <\/strong>Covers a broad range of business disciplines, including finance, marketing, operations, and strategy. Typically does not require a thesis but may involve group projects, case studies, and internships.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Careers:<\/strong> Management, entrepreneurship, or leadership roles in various fields.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Length:<\/strong> Usually two years<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-4-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-controls=\"section-1-4-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">MFA (Master of Fine Arts) <\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-4-EHRK0DysCR\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-4-EHRK0DysCR\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <ul>\n<li><strong>Focus:<\/strong> Primarily awarded in creative and fine arts disciplines, such as visual arts, writing, theater, and music.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Curriculum:<\/strong> Typically includes studio work, projects, and a portfolio or thesis.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Careers:<\/strong> Commonly pursued by aspiring artists, writers, actors, and musicians.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Length:<\/strong> Usually two years<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-5-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-controls=\"section-1-5-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">MSW (Master of Social Work)<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-5-EHRK0DysCR\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-5-EHRK0DysCR\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <ul>\n<li><strong>Focus:<\/strong> Specifically designed for individuals interested in social work and the human services sector.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Curriculum: <\/strong>Combines academic coursework with supervised fieldwork and practical training.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Careers:<\/strong> Counseling, advocacy, and working with individuals and communities in need including healthcare, community services, non-profits, and education as well as the private sector.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Accreditation:<\/strong> Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) \u2014 Board of Accreditation (CSWE-BOA)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Length:<\/strong> Usually two years exploring clinical hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-6-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-controls=\"section-1-6-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">DSW (Doctor of Social Work)<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-6-EHRK0DysCR\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-6-EHRK0DysCR\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <ul>\n<li class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\" data-start=\"82\" data-end=\"383\"><strong data-start=\"82\" data-end=\"92\">Focus:<\/strong> DSW programs are focused on preparing experienced social workers for advanced clinical practice, leadership, supervision, program administration, and social work education. The primary goal is to enhance professional practice and improve services for individuals, families, and communities.<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"385\" data-end=\"594\"><strong data-start=\"385\" data-end=\"402\">Dissertation:<\/strong> DSW programs typically require a capstone project, applied research project, or practice-focused dissertation that addresses a real-world issue in social work practice, leadership, or policy.<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"596\" data-end=\"926\"><strong data-start=\"596\" data-end=\"622\">Research vs. Practice:<\/strong> DSW programs emphasize advanced clinical practice, leadership, and the application of evidence-based practices over original research. Students engage in scholarly inquiry to improve professional practice, but research expectations are generally less extensive than those of PhD programs in Social Work.<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"928\" data-end=\"1336\"><strong data-start=\"928\" data-end=\"946\">Accreditation:<\/strong>. Prospective students should verify that the program is offered by an institution with a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited MSW program and review the curriculum, faculty, and licensure outcomes when evaluating programs.<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1338\" data-end=\"1783\"><strong data-start=\"1338\" data-end=\"1349\">Length:<\/strong> Typically two to four years of study, depending on whether the program is completed full-time or part-time. Applicants are generally expected to have earned an MSW from a CSWE-accredited program, and many programs prefer or require post-MSW professional experience.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-7-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-controls=\"section-1-7-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">PsyD (Doctor of Psychology)<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-7-EHRK0DysCR\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-7-EHRK0DysCR\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <ul>\n<li><strong>Focus:<\/strong> PsyD programs are focused on preparing students for careers in clinical psychology. The primary goal is to train practitioners who provide psychological services to individuals and groups.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dissertation:<\/strong> PsyD programs typically require a doctoral project or dissertation related to clinical practice.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Research vs. Practice:<\/strong> PsyD programs emphasize clinical training and practice over research. Students do engage in research, but it is typically less extensive than in PhD programs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Accreditation:<\/strong> <span class=\"hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline\"><span class=\"whitespace-normal\">American Psychological Association Commission on Accreditation<\/span><\/span> (APA-CoA)<\/li>\n<li><strong data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"19\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Length:<\/strong> Typically four to six years of full-time study after completing a bachelor\u2019s degree. The length varies by program and includes coursework, clinical training, supervised practicum experiences, internships, and a doctoral project or dissertation. Students who enter with a master\u2019s degree may be able to complete the program in a shorter timeframe, depending on the institution and transferred credits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-8-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-controls=\"section-1-8-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">PhD (Doctor of Philosophy)<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-8-EHRK0DysCR\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-8-EHRK0DysCR\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <ul>\n<li><strong>Focus:<\/strong> PhD programs are more versatile and can be found in various fields, including the sciences, humanities, and social sciences. They are research-focused and intended to produce faculty and researchers.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dissertation:<\/strong> PhD programs typically require an original and substantial dissertation based on independent research.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Research vs. Practice:<\/strong> PhD programs place a strong emphasis on conducting original research and contributing to an academic body of knowledge. Graduates often pursue careers in research, academia, or leadership positions in various industries<\/li>\n<li><strong>Accreditation:<\/strong> Depends on industry<\/li>\n<li><strong>Length:<\/strong> Typically five years<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-9-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-controls=\"section-1-9-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">EdD (Doctor of Education)<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-9-EHRK0DysCR\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-9-EHRK0DysCR\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <ul>\n<li><strong>Focus:<\/strong> EdD programs are primarily designed for individuals pursuing careers in education and related fields. The emphasis is on practical applications and leadership in educational settings.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dissertation:<\/strong> EdD programs often require a doctoral project or dissertation that addresses a specific issue or challenge in education.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Research vs. Practice:<\/strong> EdD programs tend to be more practice-oriented, with an emphasis on solving real-world problems in education. While research is a component, it typically focuses on applied research.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Length:<\/strong> Typically three years<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-10-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-controls=\"section-1-10-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">MD (Doctor of Medicine)<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-10-EHRK0DysCR\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-10-EHRK0DysCR\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <ul>\n<li><strong>Focus:<\/strong> The MD program is for those interested in becoming medical doctors or physicians. It focuses on the study and practice of medicine, preparing students for clinical practice.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dissertation:<\/strong> MD programs do not typically require a traditional dissertation. Instead, medical students often complete residencies and internships to gain clinical experience.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Research vs. Practice:<\/strong> MD programs emphasize clinical training and patient care. While medical research is an essential part of the field, the primary focus is on diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases.<\/li>\n<li><strong data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"19\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Typical Length:<\/strong>\u00a0 Typically requires 4 years of full-time study after completing a bachelor\u2019s degree and prerequisite coursework. The program includes foundational medical sciences, clinical rotations, and hands-on patient care experiences. After earning an MD degree, graduates must complete residency training, which typically lasts 3\u20137 years depending on the chosen medical specialty, before practicing independently.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-11-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-controls=\"section-1-11-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">PharmD (Doctor of Pharmacy)<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-11-EHRK0DysCR\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-11-EHRK0DysCR\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-1\" dir=\"auto\" tabindex=\"0\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"a3f92252-de08-4f44-a266-4544b1712831\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-5-mini\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\">\n<div class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\">\n<ul data-start=\"237\" data-end=\"736\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\">\n<li data-section-id=\"2fvqg4\" data-start=\"237\" data-end=\"474\"><strong data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"10\">Focus:<\/strong> The PharmD program is for those interested in becoming licensed pharmacists. It focuses on medication science, patient care, and the safe and effective use of medications, preparing students for careers in pharmacy practice.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"2fvqg4\" data-start=\"237\" data-end=\"474\"><strong data-start=\"239\" data-end=\"256\">Dissertation:<\/strong> PharmD programs do not typically require a traditional dissertation. Instead, students complete clinical rotations and experiential training in settings such as community pharmacies, hospitals, and healthcare clinics.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"56qd01\" data-start=\"476\" data-end=\"736\" data-is-last-node=\"\"><strong data-start=\"478\" data-end=\"504\">Research vs. Practice:<\/strong> PharmD programs emphasize patient care and medication management. While pharmaceutical research is an important part of the field, the primary focus is on optimizing drug therapy, counseling patients, and improving health outcomes.<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"56qd01\" data-start=\"476\" data-end=\"736\" data-is-last-node=\"\"><strong>Accreditation:<\/strong> Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE)<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"56qd01\" data-start=\"476\" data-end=\"736\" data-is-last-node=\"\">\n<div class=\"\" data-turn-id-container=\"75e43b8e-4ba2-4b5e-aaf7-c13a9301b047\" data-is-intersecting=\"true\"><strong data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"19\" data-is-only-node=\"\">Length:<\/strong> PharmD (Doctor of Pharmacy) programs typically require 4 years of professional study after completing undergraduate prerequisite coursework. Most students complete approximately 6\u20138 years of education total (including prerequisite undergraduate coursework). The program includes classroom instruction in pharmaceutical sciences, patient care, and extensive clinical rotations in settings such as hospitals, pharmacies, and healthcare clinics.<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"z-0 flex min-h-[46px] justify-start\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"pointer-events-none -mb-px h-px w-full opacity-0\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n              <li>\n          <button type=\"button\" class=\"accordion-trigger \" id=\"heading-1-12-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-controls=\"section-1-12-EHRK0DysCR\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n                          <span class=\"item-title\">JD (Juris Doctorate)<\/span>\n            \n                      <\/button>\n\n          <div id=\"section-1-12-EHRK0DysCR\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"heading-1-12-EHRK0DysCR\" class=\"accordion-panel\">\n\n                            \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--rich-text \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--rich-text\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      \n<div class=\"f--field f--wysiwyg\">\n\n    \n  <p>A JD is the degree designated for those preparing for a legal career.\u00a0 Please view information on JD&#8217;s in our <a href=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/pre-law\/\">&#8220;Pre-Law&#8221; section of this website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n            \n                      <\/div>\n        <\/li>\n\n          <\/ul>\n  \n  \n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n                            \n  \n    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div\n  class=\"cc--component-container cc--cta-cards-collection \"\n\n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  >\n  <div class=\"c--component c--cta-cards-collection\"\n    \n      >\n\n    \n      <div class=\"header-container\">\n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--section-title\">\n\n    \n  <h2>\n          Resources for Researching Graduate Programs\n      <\/h2>\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n                  \n<div class=\"f--field f--description\">\n\n    \n  <p>Start researching graduate programs with the following resources.\u00a0 \u00a0Each site presents information in a different way- start with the one you are most comfortable with and use others to supplement your research.\u00a0 <em>Speaking of research, we developed this <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheets\/d\/1mw_Pgb688WWDxVKDKATE52FqAwGcru1H\/edit?usp=sharing&amp;ouid=100788348400866220648&amp;rtpof=true&amp;sd=true\">school research spreadsheet<\/a> to help you stay organized- take a look!<\/em><\/p>\n<p>After you find programs you like, start digging deeper by going directly to specific websites of the programs of interest, learning more about the programs&#8217; faculty and alumni employment post-graduation, etc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n      \n      \n    <\/div>\n  \n      <div class=\"cards-container\">\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheets\/d\/1mw_Pgb688WWDxVKDKATE52FqAwGcru1H\/edit?usp=sharing&#038;ouid=100788348400866220648&#038;rtpof=true&#038;sd=true\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>Graduate School Research Spreadsheet<\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">A customizable spreadsheet template to help students organize and compare graduate programs, track application requirements, deadlines, faculty interests, funding opportunities, and other important research notes.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/cso.collegesource.com\/\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>CollegeSource Online<\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">A comprehensive database containing college catalogs and institutional information that can help students research academic programs, course requirements, and degree options.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.usnews.com\/best-graduate-schools\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>U.S. News &#038; World Report \u2013 Graduate School Rankings<\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">A graduate school ranking resource that provides rankings, program information, and research tools for exploring graduate programs across disciplines.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.princetonreview.com\/grad\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>The Princeton Review \u2013 Graduate School Resources<\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">Provides graduate school search tools, program information, test preparation resources, and advice for students exploring graduate education options.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gradschools.com\/\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>GradSchools.com \u2013 Graduate Program Search<\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">A database of graduate programs that allows students to search for master\u2019s, doctoral, certificate, and professional programs by subject area and location.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.niche.com\/graduate-schools\/\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>Niche \u2013 Graduate Schools<\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">A resource providing graduate school profiles, rankings, student reviews, and information about academic programs and campus experiences.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gograd.org\/\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>Go Grad \u2013 Graduate Study Abroad Options<\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">A resource focused on graduate study opportunities abroad, including international degree programs, scholarships, and guidance for students considering graduate education outside the United States.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.collegexpress.com\/\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>CollegeXpress \u2013 College &#038; Graduate School Search<\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">A college and graduate school search resource that helps students discover programs, scholarships, rankings, and educational opportunities. Students can search by country, institution type, and academic interests.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/catalogue.usc.edu\/\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>USC Graduate Degrees<\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">Official USC academic catalog featuring graduate degree programs, admission requirements, curriculum information, and program details across USC schools and departments.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/academicprograms.usc.edu\/progressive-degree-programs\/\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>USC Progressive Degree Programs<\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">Information about USC\u2019s progressive degree programs, which allow eligible undergraduate students to begin graduate coursework while completing their bachelor\u2019s degree.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.teachingdegrees.com\/\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>TeachingDegrees.com <\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">A resource for exploring graduate programs in education, teaching, and related fields, including degree options and career information for aspiring educators.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.accreditedschoolsonline.org\/\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>Accredited Schools Online<\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">A resource for researching accredited colleges and graduate programs, including online and campus-based degree options, accreditation information, and program comparisons.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"https:\/\/nces.ed.gov\/collegenavigator\/\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) \u2013 College Navigator<\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">A U.S. Department of Education resource that provides searchable data on colleges and universities, including enrollment, programs offered, tuition, admissions, and institutional information.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n      \n        <div class=\"card\">\n\n                            <a href=\"http:\/\/Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) Directory\" >\n            \n                                    <h3>Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) Directory<\/h3>\n                \n                                    <span class=\"card-description\">A resource for verifying recognized higher education accrediting organizations and researching accreditation information for colleges and universities, including international institutions.<\/span>\n                \n                            <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n          <\/div>\n  \n\n  <\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":50,"featured_media":0,"parent":1858,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-2573","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Exploring graduate degrees and graduate programs<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Exploring graduate degrees and programs - Discover resources to help research and explore graduate degree programs, including master\u2019s, doctoral, and professional degrees. Find resources to compare programs and evaluate graduate schools to help you make an informed decision.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/grad-school-advising\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Exploring graduate degrees and graduate programs\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Exploring graduate degrees and programs - Discover resources to help research and explore graduate degree programs, including master\u2019s, doctoral, and professional degrees. Find resources to compare programs and evaluate graduate schools to help you make an informed decision.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/grad-school-advising\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Dornsife Career Pathways\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/uscdornsifecp\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-08-05T00:26:36+00:00\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/grad-school-advising\\\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/grad-school-advising\\\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\\\/\",\"name\":\"Exploring graduate degrees and graduate programs\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2023-04-04T15:51:56+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-05T00:26:36+00:00\",\"description\":\"Exploring graduate degrees and programs - Discover resources to help research and explore graduate degree programs, including master\u2019s, doctoral, and professional degrees. Find resources to compare programs and evaluate graduate schools to help you make an informed decision.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/grad-school-advising\\\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/grad-school-advising\\\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/grad-school-advising\\\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Graduate School\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/grad-school-advising\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"Exploring graduate degrees and programs\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/\",\"name\":\"Dornsife Career Pathways\",\"description\":\"USC Dornsife Career Services\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Dornsife Career Pathways\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/40\\\/2023\\\/09\\\/USC-Career-Pathways-300by100.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/sites\\\/40\\\/2023\\\/09\\\/USC-Career-Pathways-300by100.jpg\",\"width\":300,\"height\":109,\"caption\":\"Dornsife Career Pathways\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/dornsife.usc.edu\\\/careerpathways\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.instagram.com\\\/uscdornsifecp\\\/\"]}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Exploring graduate degrees and graduate programs","description":"Exploring graduate degrees and programs - Discover resources to help research and explore graduate degree programs, including master\u2019s, doctoral, and professional degrees. Find resources to compare programs and evaluate graduate schools to help you make an informed decision.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/grad-school-advising\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Exploring graduate degrees and graduate programs","og_description":"Exploring graduate degrees and programs - Discover resources to help research and explore graduate degree programs, including master\u2019s, doctoral, and professional degrees. Find resources to compare programs and evaluate graduate schools to help you make an informed decision.","og_url":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/grad-school-advising\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\/","og_site_name":"Dornsife Career Pathways","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/uscdornsifecp\/","article_modified_time":"2026-08-05T00:26:36+00:00","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/grad-school-advising\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\/","url":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/grad-school-advising\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\/","name":"Exploring graduate degrees and graduate programs","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/#website"},"datePublished":"2023-04-04T15:51:56+00:00","dateModified":"2026-08-05T00:26:36+00:00","description":"Exploring graduate degrees and programs - Discover resources to help research and explore graduate degree programs, including master\u2019s, doctoral, and professional degrees. Find resources to compare programs and evaluate graduate schools to help you make an informed decision.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/grad-school-advising\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/grad-school-advising\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\/"]}]},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/grad-school-advising\/exploring-graduate-degrees-and-programs\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Graduate School","item":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/grad-school-advising\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Exploring graduate degrees and programs"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/#website","url":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/","name":"Dornsife Career Pathways","description":"USC Dornsife Career Services","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/#organization","name":"Dornsife Career Pathways","url":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/40\/2023\/09\/USC-Career-Pathways-300by100.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/40\/2023\/09\/USC-Career-Pathways-300by100.jpg","width":300,"height":109,"caption":"Dornsife Career Pathways"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/uscdornsifecp\/"]}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2573","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/50"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2573"}],"version-history":[{"count":130,"href":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2573\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":116531,"href":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/2573\/revisions\/116531"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1858"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/dornsife.usc.edu\/careerpathways\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2573"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}