What Are Some Differences Between Graduate and Undergraduate School?

Undergraduate

Graduate

A variety of courses outside the field are required as general education requirements. Classes are broad and are the sole means of evaluation for graduation.

Students complete an in-depth study of one field. The primary means of evaluation for graduation is a research project or thesis, which is judged by a faculty committee.

Student may remain enrolled and continue progress on their degree even if GPA falls below a 3.0.

A minimum GPA for continuing enrollment is a 3.0.

Some courses are very large. Involvement with faculty is largely at the initiation of the student.

All courses are small, and involvement with faculty is direct and extensive. Students enter an extended research apprenticeship with one faculty member.

Degree takes 4 years to complete.

Usually only 1 year of coursework is completed. Degree completion times vary between 2 and 6 years.

Students are expected to work independently, and produce high quality results, as measured by a GPA.

Students are expected to work independently and produce high quality results, as measured by research, publication, and presentations judged by senior peers.

You learn what is already known.

You learn to add to the body of existing scientific and technical knowledge.