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Graduate Research Student skills for your resume and career

Graduate Research Student Example Skills

Graduate research students need a variety of hard skills to succeed. According to Jan Levine , Professor of Law and Director, Legal Research & Writing Program at Duquesne University, "research skills are important, conveying what was found is even more important." This means that graduate research students should be proficient in laboratory equipment, Python, C++, and data collection. They should also know how to analyze data and use statistical analysis software like SPSS.

In addition to hard skills, graduate research students must possess soft skills. According to Mario Jimenez Chacon , Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin - Green Bay, "interpersonal skills, work ethic, the ability to work in teams, flexibility, and communication skills are all fundamental soft skills." Researchers need to be able to work with others, communicate their findings effectively, and be flexible in their approach to research.

15 graduate research student skills for your resume and career

1. lab equipment.

Lab equipment refers to tools and instruments used in research and scientific investigations. Graduate research students use lab equipment in various ways, such as manufacturing prototypes, synthesizing proteins, analyzing data, and preparing and calibrating equipment. They also use lab equipment for experimentation, such as HPLC and CD spectroscopy, and for maintaining supplies and reagents.

  • Manufactured prototype for ergonomic and quality testing utilizing machine shop and test lab equipment.
  • Designed and produced lab equipment for wheelchair cushion experimentation.

2. Laboratory Equipment

Laboratory equipment refers to the tools and machines used in scientific research. Graduate research students use laboratory equipment in a variety of ways, such as maintaining and calibrating it, using it for experiments and data analysis, and ordering new equipment. They also train others in its proper use.

  • Maintained laboratory equipment and supplies and liaise with other laboratory teams, and principal investigators regarding laboratory results and reports.
  • Perform a variety of technical laboratory functions in the operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment such as calibrating and troubleshooting.

Python is a programming language used for data analysis, development, and scripting. Graduate research students use Python for a variety of tasks such as data visualization, exploiting big data, and conducting simulations. They also use Python to track the health of plants, identify nodes of higher importance, and analyze data. As Dr. Sharon Locke Ph.D. , Director, Center for STEM Research, Education, and Outreach, Professor, Department of Environmental Sciences, ISSP Sustainability Excellence Associate at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, puts it, "Environmental science students who have not shied away from taking courses requiring math and computational skills indicate a student is willing to persist in a challenging area. This might be demonstrated by using statistical software such as R and Python or working with large databases."

  • Performed analysis on large volume of data containing simulations of numerical models of continuous gravitational waves written in MATLAB and Python.
  • Utilize applied data science methodology and python programming to exploit big data and database management systems and support components.

C++ is a programming language. Graduate research students use it to implement algorithms and create software. They also use it for system automation, visualization, and simulation. Some even use it to analyze data from detectors. One graduate research student used C++ to develop a wireless sensor network.

  • Implemented both sequential and distributed Minimal Dominating Set algorithms in C++.
  • Achieved 10% to 14% of IPC improvement by implementing my algorithm, in C++, for the IQ-capping technique.

5. Chemistry

Chemistry is the study of the building blocks of matter and how they interact. Graduate research students use chemistry in various ways, such as conducting experiments, synthesizing compounds, and analyzing materials. For example, a graduate research student in organic chemistry may use microwave technology as a green chemistry tool to synthesize potential anti-tuberculosis drugs. They may also perform laboratory analysis, including wet chemistry and stable isotopes, to physically and chemically characterize soils. As Hansjakob Werlen Ph.D. , Professor and German Studies Coordinator at Swarthmore College, puts it, "If your degree is not in a particular high-demand field, such as computer science or organic chemistry, consider positions that, while not exactly matching the field of your degree (e.g. in management, health care), provide job opportunities where strong language and writing skills are in demand while the specifics of the position can be learned."

  • Provided training and instruction to an undergraduate student in research techniques and higher-level approaches to organic chemistry problem solving.
  • Completed 12 credit hours of biology and chemistry laboratory courses, including introduction to laboratory safety and hazardous materials.

6. Cell Culture

Cell culture is the process of growing cells in a laboratory. Graduate research students use cell culture to study and manipulate cells for various research purposes. They perform experiments, gather data, and analyze it. They also use cell culture to develop and maintain stable cell lines. For example, they may use mammalian cell culture techniques to study protein expression, purification, and other cellular processes.

  • Assisted in collection and interpretation of data obtained and encouraged efficient cell culture techniques.
  • Perform experimentation and data analysis on varied environmental effects on yeast strain cell cultures.

Choose from 10+ customizable graduate research student resume templates

R is a statistical programming language widely used by graduate research students in analyzing data and creating visual representations. They use R to clean, organize, and model data, as well as create tables and charts to compare findings. As Dr. Jeffrey Hughes , Deputy Director at the University of St Andrews, puts it, "R is a powerful tool that allows the student to work with data and to learn by doing."

  • Analyzed final data collected using R statistical software.
  • Used Excel and R to analyze population, housing, employment and land use conditions as well as make projections.

8. Data Analysis

Data analysis is the process of collecting and extracting information from data to draw meaningful conclusions. Graduate research students use data analysis in various ways, such as conducting experiments, managing research databases, and interpreting results to communicate with the scientific community. As Dr. Kenneth Klemow Ph.D. , Professor and Chair of Biology at Wilkes University, puts it, "Data analysis skills command relatively high salaries."

  • Used data analysis and visualization techniques to effectively communicate the results of the research to the larger scientific community.
  • Analyze data Characterize catalysts via infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy Skills Used Data Analysis Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

9. Analyze Data

To analyze data is to examine and interpret information in order to draw conclusions or make decisions. Graduate research students use analyze data in their job by collecting and examining data, organizing it into graphs, tables, and charts, and using software to store, process, and analyze data. Shiri Noy Ph.D. , Assistant Professor at Denison University's Department of Anthropology & Sociology, emphasizes the importance of analyze data for graduate research students, "Knowing how to collect, systematize, and analyze data, whether that be archival documents, statistical datasets, or interview data, for example, is something that is very appealing to employers."

  • Analyze data and disseminate to other biological and ionizing radiation exposure experiments groups.
  • Utilize computerized electronic data processing equipment to gather and analyze data.

10. Research Student

A research student is a student who conducts research on a project or topic. Graduate research students use research students to assist with conducting experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. They work closely with other research students to design and execute experiments, and they also mentor undergraduate research students. They also present their findings to other research students and faculty.

  • Graduate Research Student, Department of Radiation Oncology, Laboratory of Cancer Biology, Case Western Reserve University
  • Authored a technical paper on corrosion research with a team of interdisciplinary research students.

11. Molecular Biology

Molecular biology is the study of the structure and function of cells and organisms at the molecular level. Graduate research students use molecular biology to conduct experiments, analyze data, and understand the mechanisms of biological systems. They apply techniques such as PCR, DNA extraction, and protein purification to answer questions in fields like genetics, biochemistry, and synthetic biology. They also use molecular biology to study resistance mechanisms and develop new drug targets.

  • Completed interdisciplinary courses and attended seminars covering all aspects of pharmaceutical sciences before transitioning into the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry department.
  • Provided research support to students on behalf of multiple DNA laboratories designed to introduce students to biotechnology and molecular biology.

12. Protein Purification

Protein purification is the process of isolating a specific protein from a complex mixture. Graduate research students use protein purification to develop essential laboratory skills or to prepare proteins for structural analysis. They perform protein purification using techniques such as affinity and size-exclusion chromatography. They also use HPLC protein purification machines and SDS gel for purification.

  • Developed essential laboratory skills including DNA extraction, protein purification and protein crystallization.
  • Performed protein purification using NTA column.

13. Data Collection

Data collection is the process of gathering data for analysis or research. Graduate research students use data collection in various ways, including surveys, fieldwork, and laboratory research. They may also train others in data collection methods and use software tools to organize and analyze data. As Harriet Phinney Ph.D. , Associate Professor at Seattle University, puts it, "Empirical data collection... is an important hard/technical skill for Graduate Research Students."

  • Performed data collection, used SWAT model for analysis and applied results to regional economic development planning process.
  • Prepared research summaries, including data collection or analysis, and handled complex and confidential information with discretion.

RT-PCR is a technique that uses polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify and detect RNA. Graduate research students use RT-PCR in various ways, including to detect specific RNA molecules, quantify gene expression, and study the regulation of gene expression. They also use RT-PCR to analyze and quantify fluorescence of imaged cells, perform site-directed mutagenesis and sequence analysis, and create cDNA from RNA.

  • Assisted graduate student lab personnel with advanced molecular techniques such as RT-PCR, fluorescent microscopy, and IFA staining.
  • Used ImageJ photo software to analyze and quantify fluorescence of imaged cells, RT-PCR gel plate analysis.

15. Synthesis

Synthesis is the process of combining two or more substances to create a new material. Graduate research students use synthesis in various ways, such as creating biological molecules for pharmaceutical drugs, optimizing processes, and isolating key intermediates for the synthesis of analogs. They also work on developing new methods, such as stereo-selective synthesis, and use advanced techniques and instrumentation to purify, isolate, and characterize compounds.

  • Participated in projects involving the synthesis of biological molecules widely used in pharmaceutical drugs and naturally occurring in the human body.
  • Developed experience of solid or solution state synthesis, and familiarized with different furnaces and other instruments mentioned above.

12 Graduate Research Student Resume Examples

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What hard/technical skills are most important for Researchers?

Professor of Law and Director, Legal Research & Writing Program, Duquesne University

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List of graduate research student skills to add to your resume

Graduate Research Student Skills

The most important skills for a graduate research student resume and required skills for a graduate research student to have include:

  • Lab Equipment
  • Laboratory Equipment
  • Cell Culture
  • Data Analysis
  • Analyze Data
  • Research Student
  • Molecular Biology
  • Protein Purification
  • Data Collection
  • Research Data
  • GEL Electrophoresis
  • Literature Reviews
  • Poster Presentation
  • Electrophoresis
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Conduct Research
  • Research Paper
  • Research Findings
  • Independent Research
  • Summer Research
  • Research Study
  • Scholarship
  • Water Samples
  • Mass Spectrometry
  • Experimental Design
  • Research Conference

Updated February 16, 2024

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Graduate Research Student Related Skills

  • Assistant Research Scientist Skills
  • Doctoral Student Skills
  • Graduate Assistant Skills
  • Graduate Researcher Skills
  • Graduate Student Internship Skills
  • Laboratory Internship Skills
  • Laboratory Researcher Skills
  • PHD Researcher Skills
  • Postdoctoral Research Associate Skills
  • Postdoctoral Scholar Skills
  • Research Associate Skills
  • Research Fellow Skills
  • Research Internship Skills
  • Research Laboratory Technician Skills
  • Research Scientist Skills

Graduate Research Student Related Careers

  • Assistant Research Scientist
  • Doctoral Student
  • Graduate Assistant
  • Graduate Researcher
  • Graduate Student Internship
  • Laboratory Internship
  • Laboratory Researcher
  • PHD Researcher
  • Postdoctoral Research Associate
  • Postdoctoral Scholar
  • Research Associate
  • Research Fellow
  • Research Internship
  • Research Laboratory Technician
  • Research Scientist

Graduate Research Student Related Jobs

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What Similar Roles Do

  • What Does an Assistant Research Scientist Do
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  • What Does a Laboratory Internship Do
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  • What Does an PHD Researcher Do
  • What Does a Postdoctoral Research Associate Do
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  • What Does a Research Associate Do
  • What Does a Research Fellow Do
  • What Does a Research Internship Do
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PhD Transferable Skills

Translating your skills and experiences.

Transferable skills are skills you acquire or learn in one setting that can be applied or translated to new and different settings, environments, and activities. Doctoral students often fall into the trap of seeing their skills as applicable in only one setting, thus do not recognize that they are qualified for a wide variety of career paths. Don’t let this happen to you! In the table below you will find a list of skills most sought after by employers. In the final column of the table are examples of activities that demonstrate these essential skills. For several of the skills you can also take online assessments to identify which areas you still need to develop.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS: Adaptability , Analytic skills , Balance & resilience , Communication skills ( oral and written ), Conflict resolution/negotiation , Cultural/Intercultural , Discipline-specific skills , Ethics & Integrity , Follow-through/Ability to get things done , Fundraising , Independent (self-starter), Intelligence , Inter-/Multi- disciplinary , Interpersonal skills , Leadership (program) , Leadership (personnel/management) , Networking & collaboration , Organization , Outreach , Project management , Research , Self-direction/Entrepreneurial skills , Supervision , Technical skills (information technology), Work ethic

Essential Skills and Competencies for Graduate Students 1 :

1 Contents of table are adapted from Blickley, et al. (2012). “Graduate Student’s Guide to Necessary Skills for Nonacademic Conservation Careers.” Conservation Biology, 27:1. 2 Winterton, Delamare - Le Deist, and Stringfellow (2006). “Typology of knowledge, skills and competences: clarification of the concept and prototype.”

Additional resources on transferable skills:

  • Plan Your Work & Work Your Plan [PDF]
  • Graduate Student Skills (UIUC) [PDF]

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Empowering students to develop research skills

February 8, 2021

This post is republished from   Into Practice ,  a biweekly communication of Harvard’s  Office of the Vice Provost for Advances in Learning

Terence Capellini standing next to a human skeleton

Terence D. Capellini, Richard B Wolf Associate Professor of Human Evolutionary Biology, empowers students to grow as researchers in his Building the Human Body course through a comprehensive, course-long collaborative project that works to understand the changes in the genome that make the human skeleton unique. For instance, of the many types of projects, some focus on the genetic basis of why human beings walk on two legs. This integrative “Evo-Devo” project demands high levels of understanding of biology and genetics that students gain in the first half of class, which is then applied hands-on in the second half of class. Students work in teams of 2-3 to collect their own morphology data by measuring skeletons at the Harvard Museum of Natural History and leverage statistics to understand patterns in their data. They then collect and analyze DNA sequences from humans and other animals to identify the DNA changes that may encode morphology. Throughout this course, students go from sometimes having “limited experience in genetics and/or morphology” to conducting their own independent research. This project culminates in a team presentation and a final research paper.

The benefits: Students develop the methodological skills required to collect and analyze morphological data. Using the UCSC Genome browser  and other tools, students sharpen their analytical skills to visualize genomics data and pinpoint meaningful genetic changes. Conducting this work in teams means students develop collaborative skills that model academic biology labs outside class, and some student projects have contributed to published papers in the field. “Every year, I have one student, if not two, join my lab to work on projects developed from class to try to get them published.”

“The beauty of this class is that the students are asking a question that’s never been asked before and they’re actually collecting data to get at an answer.”

The challenges:  Capellini observes that the most common challenge faced by students in the course is when “they have a really terrific question they want to explore, but the necessary background information is simply lacking. It is simply amazing how little we do know about human development, despite its hundreds of years of study.” Sometimes, for instance, students want to learn about the evolution, development, and genetics of a certain body part, but it is still somewhat a mystery to the field. In these cases, the teaching team (including co-instructor Dr. Neil Roach) tries to find datasets that are maximally relevant to the questions the students want to explore. Capellini also notes that the work in his class is demanding and hard, just by the nature of the work, but students “always step up and perform” and the teaching team does their best to “make it fun” and ensure they nurture students’ curiosities and questions.

Takeaways and best practices

  • Incorporate previous students’ work into the course. Capellini intentionally discusses findings from previous student groups in lectures. “They’re developing real findings and we share that when we explain the project for the next groups.” Capellini also invites students to share their own progress and findings as part of class discussion, which helps them participate as independent researchers and receive feedback from their peers.
  • Assign groups intentionally.  Maintaining flexibility allows the teaching team to be more responsive to students’ various needs and interests. Capellini will often place graduate students by themselves to enhance their workload and give them training directly relevant to their future thesis work. Undergraduates are able to self-select into groups or can be assigned based on shared interests. “If two people are enthusiastic about examining the knee, for instance, we’ll match them together.”
  • Consider using multiple types of assessments.  Capellini notes that exams and quizzes are administered in the first half of the course and scaffolded so that students can practice the skills they need to successfully apply course material in the final project. “Lots of the initial examples are hypothetical,” he explains, even grounded in fiction and pop culture references, “but [students] have to eventually apply the skills they learned in addressing the hypothetical example to their own real example and the data they generate” for the Evo-Devo project. This is coupled with a paper and a presentation treated like a conference talk.

Bottom line:  Capellini’s top advice for professors looking to help their own students grow as researchers is to ensure research projects are designed with intentionality and fully integrated into the syllabus. “You can’t simply tack it on at the end,” he underscores. “If you want this research project to be a substantive learning opportunity, it has to happen from Day 1.” That includes carving out time in class for students to work on it and make the connections they need to conduct research. “Listen to your students and learn about them personally” so you can tap into what they’re excited about. Have some fun in the course, and they’ll be motivated to do the work.

Photo of student waving Cal flag

June 23, 2015

Learn How to Develop Research Questions and Proposals

By Patrick McMahon

A key set of research skills involve designing research questions and proposals, and building support for your research plans. Developing such skills can be relevant not only to research oriented careers, but also to careers where you are responsible for proposing or developing new projects, programs, products, services, or policies. Before you can propose effective research or other interventions, it is important to ensure you understand the problem space and what tools and resources will be available to you as you navigate the space. It is also often necessary to obtain approval and/or funding for a project before it begins.

Steps You Can Take

Write a research prospectus.

Doctoral students may be required to prepare a formal research prospectus as part of their progress to degree completion. Even if the prospectus is not required, there is intellectual and professional value to be found in writing one. A research prospectus, like a grant proposal, shows that you know how to define the scope of a project, understand the steps needed to complete it, and recognize the kind and scale of resources needed—skills valuable in academic and other professional careers.

Guidelines and expectations for the research prospectus vary by field, but many include or address the following types of categories: research problems, research questions, assumptions, theoretical issues, literature review, general research plans, anticipated difficulties, and anticipated contributions. Your department may retain a file of prospectuses submitted by previous students, or you may wish to consult more advanced students to track down samples.

Write Grant and Fellowship Proposals and Secure Funding

Mastering the skill of grant writing is vital to the completion and promotion of your research, as well as to success in a variety of academic and professional careers. To support their research, graduate students at Berkeley often write proposals for University or external funding, including from organizations such as the American Association of University Women [AAUW], the Fulbright program , National Institutes of Health [NIH], National Science Foundation [NSF], Social Science Research Council [SSRC], and many more. By learning to frame your project for different audiences and purposes, you will develop a vocabulary for both the academic and professional applications of your research methods and findings. Establishing a successful grant history will in turn prove your ability to attract sponsors and build financial support for the work you undertake—a highly desirable skill in both academic and professional careers. Workshops on writing research grant proposals are offered by  the Graduate Writing Center.

  For a list of major University and extramural funding sources, see “ Graduate Fellowships and Awards ,” Berkeley Graduate Division. For more lists of funding opportunities, you can also refer to the UCLA GRAPES database , the  Berkeley Research Development Office , and the  Berkeley Sponsored Projects Office . In addition, university centers such as the  Geospatial Innovation Facility  or Digital Humanities at Berkeley  typically offer more targeted information about funding sources for students working in those fields.

Berkeley also offers a variety of  mentoring programs , including one—the  SMART (Student Mentoring and Research Teams) program—which is directly designed to facilitate graduate research by offering funding and undergraduate research assistance on a proposed project. Another, Berkeley Connect , is a year-long competitive research fellowship for graduate students in designated departments to advance their research while mentoring groups of undergraduate students.

The UC Berkeley Research Development Office provides a general list of  proposal-writing resources  that also contains specific information about preparing   proposals for major grants  from institutions like the NIH and NSF. Field-specific grant-writing resources are often provided by professional associations. 

See also these resources:

  • How to succeed in grant writing: “ Grant-Writing Tips for Graduate Students ,” by Lisa Patrick Bentley ( Chronicle of Higher Education, 2010)
  • Tips on the pitfalls of grant writing: “ How to Fail in Grant Writing ,” by Elizabeth Jakob et al. ( Chronicle of Higher Education, 2010)
  • On the “outreach” grant proposal: “ How to Write an Outreach Grant Proposal ,” by Karen M. Markin ( Chronicle of Higher Education, 2006)

Learn to Avoid Bias in Research

Issues of bias are prevalent in research and the production of knowledge. All graduate students, regardless of discipline, should learn about bias in quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. Take some time to research bias in your own field of research. For example, if your work uses computational tools, it is important to learn about the prevalence of bias in algorithms and computer code, which you can learn about in this report created by the Civil Liberties Union for Europe . You can also learn about bias in medical research (see, for example, the article titled “Reducing Bias and Improving Transparency in Medical Research” or about researcher bias in qualitative research methods (see, for example, the article titled  “Interviewing the Investigator.” ) 

Learn more about bias in academia and diverse career paths, how to intervene to create equitable and inclusive environments, and how to avoid bias in the Equity and Inclusion competency of this guide. 

Attend Research Talks, Colloquia, and Seminars Both Within and Beyond Your Discipline

Attending research talks, colloquia, and short seminars is a useful way to gain a sense of other disciplines and their research approaches without committing to a semester-long course or expending the energy required to survey the literature of a field. The  UC Berkeley Events  calendar—searchable by day, week, or month—is a good place to look for the many events that occur each day on campus. You may also wish to look on the websites of specific departments, centers, or concentrations related to your interests, as well as local institutions like museums and libraries.

Attending research talks, colloquia, and seminars also provides great opportunities for networking with potential future colleagues, mentors, and employers. For more on how (and why) to build networking skills, see the Career Exploration and Preparation competency in this guide.

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Tips for Online Students , Tips for Students

The Best Research Skills For Success

Updated: December 8, 2023

Published: January 5, 2020

The-Best-Research-Skills-for-Success

Every student is required to conduct research in their academic careers at one point or another. A good research paper not only requires a great deal of time, but it also requires complex skills. Research skills include the ability to organize, evaluate, locate, and extract relevant information.

Let’s learn how to develop great research skills for academic success.

What is Research?

We’ve all surely heard the term “research” endlessly. But do you really know what it means?

Research is a type of study that focuses on a specific problem and aims to solve it using scientific methods. Research is a highly systematic process that involves both describing, explaining, and predicting something.

A college student exploring research topics for his science class.

Photo by  Startup Stock Photos  from  Pexels

What are research skills.

Research skills are what helps us answer our most burning questions, and they are what assist us in our solving process from A to Z, including searching, finding, collecting, breaking down, and evaluating the relevant information to the phenomenon at hand.

Research is the basis of everything we know — and without it, we’re not sure where we would be today! For starters, without the internet and without cars, that’s for sure.

Why are Research Skills Important?

Research skills come in handy in pretty much everything we do, and especially so when it comes to the workforce. Employers will want to hire you and compensate you better if you demonstrate a knowledge of research skills that can benefit their company.

From knowing how to write reports, how to notice competition, develop new products, identify customer needs, constantly learn new technologies, and improve the company’s productivity, there’s no doubt that research skills are of utter importance. Research also can save a company a great deal of money by first assessing whether making an investment is really worthwhile for them.

How to Get Research Skills

Now that you’re fully convinced about the importance of research skills, you’re surely going to want to know how to get them. And you’ll be delighted to hear that it’s really not so complicated! There are plenty of simple methods out there to gain research skills such as the internet as the most obvious tool.

Gaining new research skills however is not limited to just the internet. There are tons of books, such as Lab Girl by Hope Jahren, journals, articles, studies, interviews and much, much more out there that can teach you how to best conduct your research.

Utilizing Research Skills

Now that you’ve got all the tools you need to get started, let’s utilize these research skills to the fullest. These skills can be used in more ways than you know. Your research skills can be shown off either in interviews that you’re conducting or even in front of the company you’re hoping to get hired at .

It’s also useful to add your list of research skills to your resume, especially if it’s a research-based job that requires skills such as collecting data or writing research-based reports. Many jobs require critical thinking as well as planning ahead.

Career Paths that Require Research Skills

If you’re wondering which jobs actually require these research skills, they are actually needed in a variety of industries. Some examples of the types of work that require a great deal of research skills include any position related to marketing, science , history, report writing, and even the food industry.

A high school student at her local library looking for reliable sources through books.

Photo by  Abby Chung  from  Pexels

How students can improve research skills.

Perhaps you know what you have to do, but sometimes, knowing how to do it can be more of a challenge. So how can you as a student improve your research skills ?

1. Define your research according to the assignment

By defining your research and understanding how it relates to the specific field of study, it can give more context to the situation.

2. Break down the assignment

The most difficult part of the research process is actually just getting started. By breaking down your research into realistic and achievable parts, it can help you achieve your goals and stay systematic.

3. Evaluate your sources

While there are endless sources out there, it’s important to always evaluate your sources and make sure that they are reliable, based on a variety of factors such as their accuracy and if they are biased, especially if used for research purposes.

4. Avoid plagiarism

Plagiarism is a major issue when it comes to research, and is often misunderstood by students. IAs a student, it’s important that you understand what plagiarism really means, and if you are unclear, be sure to ask your teachers.

5. Consult and collaborate with a librarian

A librarian is always a good person to have around, especially when it comes to research. Most students don’t seek help from their school librarian, however, this person tends to be someone with a vast amount of knowledge when it comes to research skills and where to look for reliable sources.

6. Use library databases

There are tons of online library resources that don’t require approaching anyone. These databases are generally loaded with useful information that has something for every student’s specific needs.

7. Practice effective reading

It’s highly beneficial to practice effective reading, and there are no shortage of ways to do it. One effective way to improve your research skills it to ask yourself questions using a variety of perspectives, putting yourself in the mind of someone else and trying to see things from their point of view.

There are many critical reading strategies that can be useful, such as making summaries from annotations, and highlighting important passages.

Thesis definition

A thesis is a specific theory or statement that is to be either proved or maintained. Generally, the intentions of a thesis are stated, and then throughout, the conclusions are proven to the reader through research. A thesis is crucial for research because it is the basis of what we are trying to prove, and what guides us through our writing.

What Skills Do You Need To Be A Researcher?

One of the most important skills needed for research is independence, meaning that you are capable of managing your own work and time without someone looking over you.

Critical thinking, problem solving, taking initiative, and overall knowing how to work professionally in front of your peers are all crucial for effectively conducting research .

1. Fact check your sources

Knowing how to evaluate information in your sources and determine whether or not it’s accurate, valid or appropriate for the specific purpose is a first on the list of research skills.

2. Ask the right questions

Having the ability to ask the right questions will get you better search results and more specific answers to narrow down your research and make it more concise.

3. Dig deeper: Analyzing

Don’t just go for the first source you find that seems reliable. Always dig further to broaden your knowledge and make sure your research is as thorough as possible.

4. Give credit

Respect the rights of others and avoid plagiarizing by always properly citing your research sources.

5. Utilize tools

There are endless tools out there, such as useful websites, books, online videos, and even on-campus professionals such as librarians that can help. Use all the many social media networks out there to both gain and share more information for your research.

6. Summarizing

Summarizing plays a huge role in research, and once the data is collected, relevant information needs to be arranged accordingly. Otherwise it can be incredibly overwhelming.

7. Categorizing

Not only does information need to be summarized, but also arranged into categories that can help us organize our thoughts and break down our materials and sources of information.

This person is using a magnifying glass to look at objects in order to collect data for her research.

Photo by  Noelle Otto  from  Pexels

What are different types of research, 1. qualitative.

This type of research is exploratory research and its aim is to obtain a better understanding of reasons for things. Qualitative research helps form an idea without any specific fixed pattern. Some examples include face-to-face interviews or group discussions.

2. Quantitative

Quantitative research is based on numbers and statistics. This type of research uses data to prove facts, and is generally taken from a large group of people.

3. Analytical

Analytical research has to always be done from a neutral point of view, and the researcher is intended to break down all perspectives. This type of research involves collecting information from a wide variety of sources.

4. Persuasive

Persuasive research describes an issue from two different perspectives, going through both the pros and cons of both, and then aims to prove their preference towards one side by exploring a variety of logical facts.

5. Cause & Effect

In this type of research, the cause and effects are first presented, and then a conclusion is made. Cause and effect research is for those who are new in the field of research and is mostly conducted by high school or college students.

6. Experimental Research

Experimental research involves very specific steps that must be followed, starting by conducting an experiment. It is then followed by sharing an experience and providing data about it. This research is concluded with data in a highly detailed manner.

7. Survey Research

Survey research includes conducting a survey by asking participants specific questions, and then analyzing those findings. From that, researchers can then draw a conclusion.

8. Problem-Solution Research

Both students and scholars alike carry out this type of research, and it involves solving problems by analyzing the situation and finding the perfect solution to it.

What it Takes to Become a Researcher

  • Critical thinking

Research is most valuable when something new is put on the table. Critical thinking is needed to bring something unique to our knowledge and conduct research successfully.

  • Analytical thinking

Analytical thinking is one of the most important research skills and requires a great deal of practice. Such a skill can assist researchers in taking apart and understanding a large amount of important information in a short amount of time.

  • Explanation skills

When it comes to research skills, it’s not just about finding information, but also about how you explain it. It’s more than just writing it out, but rather, knowing how to clearly and concisely explain your new ideas.

  • Patience is key

Just like with anything in life, patience will always take you far. It might be difficult to come by, but by not rushing things and investing the time needed to conduct research properly, your work is bound for success.

  • Time management

Time is the most important asset that we have, and it can never be returned back to us. By learning time management skills , we can utilize our time in the best way possible and make sure to always be productive in our research.

What You Need to Sharpen Your Research Skills

Research is one of the most important tasks that students are given in college, and in many cases, it’s almost half of the academic grade that one is given.

As we’ve seen, there are plenty of things that you’ll need to sharpen your research skills — which mainly include knowing how to choose reliable and relevant sources, and knowing how to take them and make it your own. It’s important to always ask the right questions and dig deeper to make sure that you understood the full picture.

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Tools to Promote Grad Student Success: Research Skills

Please find this post at: https://clairekampdush.com/2014/08/28/tools-to-promote-grad-student-success-research-skills/.

I am still on the topic of self-regulated learning and graduate education. Today I want to discuss another tool that graduate students need for success: research skills. The art of conducting research has many components. First, students need to formulate research questions, preferably research questions that are going to be incremental, if not significant, additions to the field. This is a hard skill to teach, and one students really want to learn how to do. In fact, I was just on a panel at a first-year graduate student orientation, and a student asked – how do I come up with good research questions?  There is no easy answer to this question. But, I have a few ideas of how we can help grad students gain skills related to formulating research questions.

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On the topic of how to consume research, I think most students come into graduate school thinking they need to read every word of every article, and that they need to read every single article on their topic. Students will eventually realize that this is impossible. We might save them time by recommending ways to figure out which articles they should read in their entirety (i.e. classic articles in their field, articles that they are directly building on with their research) and which articles they can skim (i.e. articles for class that our outside of their field, articles that they are using just for a particular citation). We also need to help them understand when they have enough of a grasp of their area to begin to move towards research questions. I try to cover how to consume research early in the grad student proseminar I lead (see a syllabus here), but grad students can go years without really understanding how to consume research in an effective, efficient way. It feels overwhelming to get to know a field when you are a beginning grad student, so the earlier grad programs and advisors can give tips for consuming research, the better. Advisors are also the best individuals for helping a student know when they are ready to go to the hypothesis building phase, and have read enough. I have seen students fall in this trap where they think they don’t know the literature well-enough to formulate and test research questions, even after years in graduate school, and these students tend to flounder and not get the publications needed to land jobs.

Once you consume the research in your area and have a research question, you need to gather/find data and test that research question. That is where data collection and statistical skills come in. I think most grad programs do a good job of teaching these skills, so I am not going to spend a lot of time on this topic. But, these are critical skills as well. If you are looking for a grad program and students do not seem prepared in terms of research and statistical skills, or the students and faculty are not publishing in the top journals in the field, then you might look elsewhere. If you are already in this type of program, seek out other opportunities to gain these skills, even if they are in a different graduate program. Most big research universities, which are most likely to have grad programs, have these opportunities available. Take advantage of them even if they are not in your graduate program.

The final critical skill for research is writing. But, I have already covered that extensively in other posts . Oftentimes, students forget that good writing is an essential research skill. But, without the ability to clearly and logically communicate ideas, your research will likely have a hard time finding its way into a journal, or if it does find a journal, it will be a lower impact journal where fewer people will see it, meaning it will have less impact on the field. So, don’t forget about those writing skills!

Have a great week, and I would love to hear some your ideas about research skills that you think are essential for graduate student success!

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Research Skills

Research awards.

  • Thomas L. Reynolds Graduate Student Research Award
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  • Subject Librarians  - Contact your librarian for in-person, in-depth, subject-specific research assistance.
  • Graduate Resources Guide   - This guide from Atkins Library provides information and resources to support Graduate Students in their research.
  • Citation and Style Guides  - Here you will find links to the major style guides, as well as a list of free online citation tools and EndNote workshops.
  • Publishing Information   - Especially information about Open Access publishing.
  • Niner Commons  - Our institutional repository, where all theses and dissertations are deposited, as well as many works by faculty, staff, graduate students, and undergrads.
  • Interlibrary Loan (ILL)  - If the Library doesn’t have something you’re looking for, Interlibrary Loan (ILL) can try to get it for you for your research or private study. Students, faculty, and staff of UNC Charlotte can use ILL to borrow almost anything from other libraries for free. 
  • Ask Atkins FAQs  - Atkins Library provides a section of Frequently Asked Questions dedicated to graduate students providing information about library resources. 

Research Integrity Office  - Committed to upholding the highest standards of research integrity and is responsible for investigating allegations of misconduct including plagiarism, falsification, and fabrication of research materials.  

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  • Ways to prepare for grad school

Enhancing Research Skills in Graduate School: Effective Methods and Resources

  • June 28, 2023

Janelle Cox

Home Educators Blog

Enhancing research skills is a primary goal for many graduate students . Having strong research skills is crucial not only for conducting research but also for developing your intellectual and academic growth. These skills can also come in handy for almost everything you do, especially once you’re in the workforce. You can improve your skills by understanding how to organize your information, staying up to date on current trends in your field of study, honing your analytical and critical thinking skills, and more. By implementing these strategies you’ll be able to expand your knowledge and improve your research skills.

The Importance Research Plays in Graduate School

Research plays a vital role in graduate school as it establishes the foundation of your academic and intellectual growth as well as contributes to the knowledge you have in the specific field you are studying. Through research, you can dive deeper into your interests and explore any unanswered questions about the field of study you are conducting. Engaging in research enables you to attain expertise in your field and establish a reputation as a knowledgeable authority, enhancing your credibility along the way.

The rigorous research that you conduct in graduate school equips you with the skills that will prepare you for your future career in your given field. Additionally, research allows you to connect with other researchers or professionals in your field. This allows you to network and build relationships with people that may benefit your career in the future. If people notice that you have strong research skills, then it may open doors for you for further opportunities in the future.

Enhancing Research Skills

Throughout your academic career in graduate school, you may have many opportunities to develop your research skills. Here are a few effective methods to help enhance your skills.

Organize your Information

One of the ways that you can enhance your research skills is by being organized. As you process and collect your information you must find ways to organize it so it will be easier to retrieve it. You can start by categorizing different resources and putting them into folders or “bookmark” them on your computer. Outline your objectives, key findings, and any questions you have to help you create a roadmap of where you want your research to go. Part of graduate schoolwork is collecting and analyzing data so keeping this organized will help you retrieve it when needed. Additionally, adopting organizational strategies will save you time and help you streamline your entire research process.

Stay Up to Date With Current Trends in Your Field

Staying informed about the latest developments and current trends in your field of study can only benefit your research. By staying up to date with the latest theories, studies, and methods, you’ll be able to identify what areas of your field need further investigation, giving you more research ideas. Knowledge of current research also shows that you’re aware of your field’s current state, demonstrating your passion and dedication to your area of study. By staying informed you’re enhancing your research skills and the quality of your research.

Read, A LOT!

Extensive reading is an important component of enhancing your research skills because it exposes you to various perspectives in your field. Immerse yourself in books, scholarly articles, studies, podcasts, research papers, videos, and anything relevant to your field of study. Be actively engaged while reading by taking notes, using visual aids, highlighting, underlining, or relating material to your own experiences to help make it more meaningful to you. Consider different viewpoints as you read different pieces to help you gain a comprehensive understanding and perspective of the research field you’re studying.

Perfect your Analytical and Critical Thinking Skills

Sharpening your analytical and critical thinking skills will only benefit your research abilities. These essential skills enable you to evaluate data, identify bias , and make informed decisions about the data you are researching. By honing these skills, you are empowering yourself to conduct well-informed impactful research. To enhance these skills, challenge the validity of the information by asking questions and seeking evidence. Actively listen during lectures, participate in class discussions, and regularly seek feedback to gain insight and refine your skills.

Master Research Methodologies

Invest the time to learn effective research methods because it enhances your research skills. Mastering methodologies such as quantitative and qualitative approaches as well as having a firm understanding of each methodology will help you with your specific research projects in graduate school . Discussing these methods with professors and peers and attending workshops or classes can also help to enhance your skills.

Collaborate with Mentors and Peers

Teaming with experienced mentors and classmates is another great way to enhance your research skills. Both mentors and experienced classmates can provide you with valuable guidance and special insight into the most effective research practices. Mentors have extensive knowledge in their field which you can learn from to develop a deeper understanding of your research. Whereas with your peers you can engage in discussions and learn different perspectives that may challenge your assumptions. Collaborating with mentors and peers allows you to learn new techniques and methods and provides you with constructive feedback that may improve your research and help enhance your research skills.

Learning to enhance your research skills in graduate school will be a journey. However, the process will equip you with the tools you need to excel academically and professionally. By learning to organize your information, staying up to date with current trends, reading, sharpening your analytical and critical thinking skills, learning different research methods and connecting with mentors and peers, you will have the opportunity to nurture and develop your research proficiency. By embracing these methods, you can position yourself as a valuable contributor in your respective field of study.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

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Proactive Grad

6 Essential Graduate Student Skills to Make the Most Out of Your First Year

Aruna Kumarasiri

  • November 27, 2021
  • PRODUCTIVITY

graduate student skills

Research is hard! If you’re working on anything modest, chances are it’s already been done. If you’re trying to make a real difference in your field of research, you’ll most likely fail and then fail again. However, allowing failure to affect you personally and getting overly depressed is not a smart decision. Instead, you can adopt some graduate student skills to help you deal with your frustrations.

When you finish college, you are entering into a much harsher world. Some students do not fully prepare for the psychological and financial changes that will follow.

So, It’s always better to know where to look and what changes you should make in your life as a graduate student to be more productive and, most importantly, “stress-free”. Some of these graduate student skills will help you to get the best out of your degree.

Communicating with your academic supervisor

It is arguably more of a need when pursuing a doctorate than a Master’s degree, but it is a vital graduate student skill to master.

My supervisor deserves a lot of credit for being so organized and concerned about my success, but here’s what I could have done differently as a mature student to make our interactions more effective.

  • Establishing engagement standards in advance and maintaining them; for example, keep efficient communication when writing emails. Do not wait more than 24 hours to reply to an email.
  • Try to meet your supervisor in person at least every two weeks. Some of the issues can not be resolved via email, so you have to be productive to meet your supervisor in person and clarify everything as they come.
  • Seek feedback on your work frequently; it helps you to keep things in perspective.

Time management skills

It’s challenging to manage a social life while reading literature, working on your thesis research, taking classes, teaching. However, it is as important to have a good social life so you won’t get fed up halfway through your graduate studies, and that is why time management is one of the top graduate student skills.

When you’re doing research, you’re usually left to your own ways to find things out. When procrastination sets in, you must carefully manage your work-time to avoid wasting so much time. It would be best to keep your professional and personal lives separate; for some researchers, the PhD can quickly become their entire existence, as they are constantly working.

According to a recent mental health survey, more than 38% of academics felt overwhelmed by their work So, it’d always be a good idea to find your people and some hobbies outside of your research.

Knowing when to stop

This is what my advisor humorously calls to as graduate student syndrome: the urge to read a broader and more distantly relevant collection of literature before beginning a project or writing a paper, often to an excessive degree.

When someone is just starting their degree, this behaviour is more common and predictable. Maintaining a positive relationship with your supervisor is the best way to resolve the problem.

We enjoy learning new things and have a strong desire to understand how things work together, which is why we are graduate students in the first place. However, we must put the literature aside and begin our tests at some time.

Knowing when to stop reading and start working is vital to academic productivity, even if you don’t feel like you understand “everything” (because you’ll never have time to read everything).

Having a well-defined goal in terms of research.

It’s not surprising that not having a goal will make your confidence level go pretty low over the years of your research, and it shouldn’t be. First and foremost, it’s better to start with a specific goal though it should not be much narrow. Because research is always a non-linear leaning process. You dont know where you will end up.

But, as a rule of thumb, it’d be better to know what skills you should gain out of your degree to get ready for the next level. Not only does it help you do better in graduate school, but it’ll also help you to make better connections with your peers. Developing a long-term goal takes time and proper thinking, so it is labelled as one of essential graduate student skills. So, there’s nothing wrong with investing time to come up with a reasonable goal.

Most graduate students have little to no idea what they want to do when they finish their degrees. They didn’t have any plans before starting their PhDs either. I barely meet PhD students at academic conferences who know exactly what they want to do after graduation. And those that identified their objectives early on have a notable competitive advantage over others.

Presentation skills

The stereotypical agreement on a researcher’s ability to present is not pleasant. Most people believe that academics struggle to deliver a good presentation, which is not an incorrect claim. This may happen when researchers are more concerned with conducting research than presenting it. It is just as essential to present and publish research as it is to conduct it. Because there’s no point in doing research if you can’t communicate what you’ve discovered. Nobody benefits from not-published research.

Academic conferences are important venues for academics to share ideas and critique one another’s work. The goal of a presentation should be to convey a message and have people remember your work. Instead, most PhD candidates (and most academics) simply read a constant flow of text and large equations without providing the audience with a “take-home” message. That should not be the case.

Understanding the audience is the most critical aspect of any presentation. You should arrange your presentation to focus on the audience and allow you to “transfer your knowledge” to someone else.

Social skills

The majority of people who went to graduate school were top of their class, extremely intelligent, and not particularly gregarious. Many people select research because they believe it does not necessitate much interaction. However, to be successful in academics, you must be sociable, create connections and a network, and be charming and well-liked.

Final words

The majority of students have all of the necessary graduate student skills to succeed; otherwise, they would not be accepted into the program in the first place.

A certain level of motivation is required to read the literature, participate in projects, seek assistance from classmates, instructors, and teaching assistants, and work diligently.

Also, rather than assuming that something is impossible or difficult right away, it is important to study, put ideas on paper, seek advice from advisors, or get your hands dirty.

It’s important to fail now and then, and most smart graduate students learn things the hard way in their first year.

Images Courtesy – School photo created by freepic.diller – www.freepik.com , Certificate vector created by pch.vector – www.freepik.com

Aruna Kumarasiri

Aruna Kumarasiri

Founder at Proactive Grad, Materials Engineer, Researcher, and turned author. In 2019, he started his professional carrier as a materials engineer with the continuation of his research studies. His exposure to both academic and industrial worlds has provided many opportunities for him to give back to young professionals.

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Leveling Up: Essential Skills You’ll Develop in Graduate School

At Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, graduate students unlock the essential skills and knowledge needed for future career success and more!

graduate student research skills

  by Ashley Mueller / APRIL 3, 2024

As the leader in aviation and aerospace education, we know the value of networking and developing industry connections. That’s why Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University  focuses on students’ personal and professional growth. Graduate school offers you the unique opportunity to expand your expertise and acquire the necessary knowledge for today’s evolving job market.

Here, we highlight some of the essential skills you’ll develop and leverage throughout your graduate studies and beyond!

Collaboration and Teamwork

Collaboration is foundational for achieving success both personally and professionally. The graduate school journey offers numerous opportunities to join cross-functional teams, work alongside peers and expert faculty and dive into collaborative projects. Learning to collaborate in a team setting enhances the ability to work sufficiently in diverse environments and fosters creativity and innovation.

Communication and Networking

Being able to effectively communicate and network is essential in academic and workplace environments. Embry-Riddle provides countless opportunities to enhance these skills through industry internships, research-driven courses, Industry/Career Expos , networking opportunities and more. By engaging in these events, you will expand your professional networks, open doors to career opportunities and be on a pathway for long-term success.

Leadership and Mentorship

As you make progress in your graduate studies, you may have a chance to mentor undergraduate students, supervise research projects or lead teams. These experiences cultivate leadership skills such as mentorship, management, critical thinking and decision-making. Developing these skills as a leader prepares you for roles in your respective field.

Research and Analytical

One of the essential skills emphasized in graduate school is the ability to conduct and analyze complex research. Whether your interests lie in applied science, aviation, business, computers and technology, engineering, security, intelligence and safety or space, an Embry-Riddle graduate degree equips you with the expertise to evaluate, design experiments, collect data and draw meaningful conclusions. These skills are not only crucial for academia but are highly sought-after skills in various industries.

Time Management and Organization

Balancing coursework, research projects, work responsibilities and personal commitments requires strong time management and organizational skills. Graduate school teaches you how to prioritize tasks, set deadlines and maintain a productive workflow. These skills are invaluable for handling complex projects and meeting deadlines in any professional setting.

Set for Success

While the knowledge you receive in graduate school is crucial, the skills you develop along the way will serve you well in your future career and beyond and equip you with a diverse set of skills that are valuable in both your personal and professional lives. Graduate school at Embry-Riddle will set you on the path to success in whatever career you choose to pursue.

Join the community of soaring Eagles and start earning your graduate degree from Embry-Riddle.

Submit your application today!

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How to Choose a Graduate School: 7 Tips for Success

How to Choose a Graduate School: 7 Tips for Success

So you’ve made the decision to go to grad school. You’ve weighed your options , researched the benefits of a graduate education , and discovered the value of having an advanced degree . Now it’s time to choose which program to pursue—a task that can seem overwhelming given the number of options available.

But the process doesn’t have to be so daunting. There are actions you can take to make choosing a graduate degree program more manageable—exciting, even. As you take the next step toward your personal and professional goals, take note of the following tips to help you choose a graduate school and degree program best suited for you.

Difference Between Grad School and Undergrad Programs

Before you start searching for the right graduate school for you, it’s essential to know what to expect for this new career trajectory you’ll be embarking on. Unlike an undergraduate program, grad programs are highly specialized and much more advanced in your field of study.

Prospective graduate students can expect a far more individualized experience as they work closely with students and professors. Due to this specialization, entering a graduate program will be an investment of time that’ll ultimately help elevate your expertise and career choices.

Tips for Choosing a Graduate School

graduate student research skills

1. Take inventory of your passions and motivations.

Pursuing a graduate education is a big investment, so it’s critical to understand the unique “ why ” behind your decision. What do you hope to achieve by going back to school? Whether you’d like to gain more specialized knowledge, change careers, earn a promotion, increase your salary potential, or achieve a lifelong personal goal, make sure the program you choose will help get you there.

Examine the curricula and course descriptions of various degree programs, and assess how each offering aligns with your passions and interests. Graduate school is challenging, but it will feel more manageable if you’re working toward something that matters to you. Understanding your expectations and what you want to get out of the program is the first step in choosing a degree that will be a good fit.

2. Do your research and explore your options.

Once you’ve determined your motivations for returning to school, leave yourself time to research the types of degree programs available in your preferred area of study and the opportunities each can create.

Resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook can give you a sense of typical career paths by industry, along with the educational degree requirements for each. The handbook also provides market growth forecasts and earning potential to help inform your decision.

It’s also important to note the structure and focus of each program. Even in the same discipline, a program’s focus can vary among institutions. Does the curriculum emphasize theory, original research, or a more practical application of knowledge? Whatever your goals may be, make sure the program’s focus aligns with the educational experience that will provide you with the most value. Career changers, for example, who likely don’t have industry experience, might prefer a program with access to hands-on learning opportunities or a path for completing prerequisites like Northeastern’s Align and Bridge programs.

While conducting your research, don’t be afraid to utilize your professional network. Speak with colleagues who have pursued an advanced degree in your industry and reach out to alumni of the institutions you’re considering. Listening to their experiences as a graduate student and in the job market post-degree can help you gauge if the program is in line with your goals.

3. Keep your career goals in mind.

After exploring your range of program options, consider your career goals and how each specific graduate program can help you get there.

If you’re seeking a specialized area of focus, be sure to examine the program concentrations offered at each institution. One graduate program in education might prepare you to specialize in higher education administration or elementary instruction, while other institutions may offer concentrations in special education or classroom technology. Make sure the program you choose reflects your career interests.

Alternatively, if you’re unsure of exactly where your career path may take you, you may want to consider a broader degree that can give you flexibility in its application. Some degree programs, such as a Master of Business Administration , teach skills that can be applied across multiple professions. If this is the path you’d prefer to pursue, pick a degree that will remain relevant as you move around in your career.

Examine the types of credentials professionals in the industry possess and research the types of skills potential employers are looking for. Check to see that the degree program offers opportunities to learn and develop those same skills. You’ll want to make sure the program you’re investing your time in will arm you with the knowledge you can actually apply in the real world.

Some professions also require board certification and/or state licensure. For example, someone interested in becoming a ​​project manager must complete 35 hours of relevant training before gaining eligibility to sit for the certification exam. You’ll want to ensure that the graduate program you ultimately decide on is fully accredited and will help you meet any certification or licensure requirements.

Location is also an important factor to consider when thinking about potential employment opportunities after graduation. Individuals interested in financial services may consider schools in a major banking center, such as Charlotte , while those pursuing a technology career might look for programs in Silicon Valley .

Further, if your goal is to work for a specific company, do your research to determine where graduates of the programs you’re looking at are working. Universities often have corporate partnerships in which employers recruit graduates to work at their organization. Check to see if your dream company partners with any nearby universities.

4. Make sure the program fits your lifestyle.

While aligning your career goals, make sure the degree program you choose will realistically fit within your lifestyle, and determine what level of flexibility you need. There are many options available that will allow you to earn an advanced degree at the right pace and in the right format for you.

Some degrees can be earned in as little as 12 months, while others can take years. Determine how much time you’re willing to invest, considering your personal values, work and family commitments, and the type of graduate experience you’d like to have.

Full-time graduate studies are not for everyone. If you’re a working professional, you may benefit from the increased flexibility provided by a part-time degree program. You might also consider the benefits of online or hybrid graduate programs that provide access to worldwide institutions that may have otherwise not been an option.

5. Consider your finances.

Decide what you can afford for graduate school, and don’t forget to factor in both the up-front costs, such as tuition and textbooks, and hidden fees, like transportation and student activity costs. While your education is an investment, make sure you can cover the costs associated with earning your graduate degree.

Paying for graduate school can seem intimidating, but there are many different options available to you. While you narrow down your list of schools, be sure to check out the financial aid options at each institution. Along with scholarships , loans, and grants, some schools may offer assistantships or fellowships for graduate students.

For those who may already be working in their industry, your employer may offer tuition reimbursement , which pays for a predetermined amount of continuing education credits or college coursework to be applied toward a degree. Contact your company’s human resources department to determine whether tuition reimbursement is available to you and if your program of interest meets the eligibility requirements.

All of these options will help ease the costs associated with your education and could help you earn valuable experience to enhance your resumé. You may also want to consider your future earning potential and job opportunities when weighing your options—you want your degree to be worth the money, time, and energy you put into earning it.

6. Talk to admissions advisors, students, and alumni.

When determining your graduate school options, it’s important to talk to current students and alumni. Begin by creating a list of questions to ask, such as:

  • Do you have enough academic and career guidance?
  • What do you like and dislike about your program?
  • Are you happy with your professors?
  • Are there co-op and internship opportunities available to you?
  • How do you feel about the student community?
  • What do you wish you knew before enrolling?

What students and alumni tell you might surprise you and could be extremely valuable in determining the right graduate school for you.

Speak With a Student Ambassador

 Talk to an ambassador who’s been there and done that.

You can also speak with graduate admissions advisors to help you narrow your options. They have experience guiding students to make this type of decision and can provide you with the outcomes of past students whose goals were similar to yours. In speaking with the institution’s alumni and mentor network, you also have the opportunity to assess the type of connections you can make there and how they may help you get ahead after graduation.

7. Network with faculty.

Faculty can make or break your graduate school experience. Take the time to reach out to your potential professors and get to know them. Don’t be afraid to ask specific questions about their background to see if it aligns with what you want to learn.

Apply to universities that have one or more professors who focus on your area of interest and with whom you can imagine collaborating while earning your degree. Determine if they can help facilitate your growth, and go with a program where you’re comfortable with the faculty.

Applying to Graduate School

After narrowing down your options and determining which graduate programs align most closely with your career goals, lifestyle, and personal interests, you’re ready to begin the application process. It might seem intimidating, but applying to graduate school is simple so long as you remain organized and are well-prepared.

While the application requirements may look different depending on the institution and type of degree program you’re applying to, there are certain materials that you’ll likely be asked for as part of your grad school application. These include:

  • An application form
  • Undergraduate transcripts
  • A well-optimized professional resumé
  • A statement of purpose or personal statement
  • Letters of recommendation
  • GRE, GMAT, or LSAT test scores (if required)
  • An application fee

Do your research to determine what the application requirements are for your program of choice, and remain conscious of deadlines. 

Remember that Graduate School Is a Stepping Stone

When deciding which program to pursue, it’s important to remember that graduate school is a stepping stone toward your personal and professional goals—not the final destination. That said, the clearer you are on what you want to do following graduation, the easier it will be to find a program that aligns with your goals.

Start early, keep your search organized , and reach out for support. In the end, only you can decide which program will be best for you. No matter what program you choose to pursue, with commitment, resilience, and hard work, you can find success.

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Advanced degree holders earn a salary an average 25% higher than bachelor's degree holders. (Economic Policy Institute, 2021)

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High School Students Thrive as Researchers

Authentic exploratory research hones students’ investigation and analysis skills..

Posted April 1, 2024 | Reviewed by Monica Vilhauer

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This post is Part I in a series.

I got to speak with students at Laguna Beach High School (LBHS) recently when giving a career talk there. They kept asking me advanced questions about conducting studies, writing, and science, and they spoke with passion about their own research projects. I was taken aback by how much these high school teens sounded like my adult college students and peers. They kept mentioning “AER”, and I had to learn more.

LBHS’s Authentic Exploratory Research (AER) Program is an independent research course inspired by Palo Alto Unified School District’s Advanced Authentic Research Program. In AER, students are paired with adult mentors (such as LBUSD staff, industry experts, and academics) who assist the teens in researching their own big questions in fields of their choice. Students spend about 60 hours per semester on coursework that includes both instruction and working on each project itself.

No such courses were offered at LBHS when I graduated there back in 1990, and I wonder how much sooner I could have enjoyed my career as a researcher if I had gotten to participate in AER as a youth. Though the program was introduced in 2019 by Laguna Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) Superintendent Jason Viloria, Ed.D., Jun Shen is the passionate teacher and edtech coordinator who runs it. I had the pleasure of partnering with Shen for an interview series where we’ll first explore how AER works before hearing from students about their experiences with AER honing skills for future success. Students’ feedback (in interviews to follow) and Shen’s answers (which follow each question below) can help others implement such a program.

Jenny Grant Rankin: What were the biggest challenges to implementing a successful AER program, and how did you tackle them?

Jun Shen: The biggest ongoing challenge is to find the balance between respecting the students’ individual freedom in their projects on one hand, and on the other, closely managing the students so they’d make adequate progress. Tackling this is an iterative process. Through the last four years, I have tried many different methods like online journaling, different grading rubrics and requirements, different communication protocols, and it seems to be steadily getting better.

JGR: When pairing students with adult mentors, how do you find and secure mentors who are appropriate for students' different interests?

JS: We have a dedicated Mentor Coordinator for AER, at first the ASB Director Jennifer Lundblad, then our District’s Career Education Coordinator Kellee Shearer. After students register for AER in March, we interview them in April and May to get a good feel for their field of interest, and Kellee spends the summer finding them mentors.

JGR: When speaking to your students about AER, I was impressed by the sophistication with which they discussed their studies. What was the most powerful strategy you used to help high schoolers understand research concepts that are hard for even college students to grasp?

JS: Most AER students are definitely wise beyond their years but I can’t claim credit for this one. It’s definitely a team effort, with a splash of selection bias thrown in. Most (though not all) students who take on the challenge of AER are already high-performing and highly-motivated students; thus, they’ve already learned a lot of the research and analysis skills in some of their other upper-level classes. In addition to that, we have a full-time Library Media Specialist, first Stephanie Gamache then Glen Warren, who works with the students to help them find what they need. Their mentor is another obviously valuable asset. As for me, I do very little whole-group, one-size-fits-all instruction about research and data analysis. Most of the students’ research methodologies are created individually with my advice.

JGR: What can you tell educators who are nervous about giving students so much independence and freedom in a course?

JS: First, be curious. If you love learning new things, then you’ll have a great time with your students as you explore some obscure topics together. The more you communicate that you’re personally invested in their study, the harder they will work with you. Second, it won’t be perfect your first year and that’s OK. Looking back, my first year running AER was rather lackluster, with a sizable portion of students dropping out or barely finishing their projects. Every year we learn our lessons and improve the course for the following year. Third, don’t reinvent the wheel. We based our program on Palo Alto USD’s program and, year after year, have modified it to suit our culture and needs. Start with their or our curriculum and see where it leads you.

JGR: What else should readers know about AER?

JS: It’s one of the highlights of my career. I’ve always been that kid who watched as many Discovery Channel Documentaries as I could because I loved learning about everything. I never thought that I’d get to geek out with kids about Aerospace Engineering and Fashion Design in a high school teaching job!

I’ve always been that kid, too. It’s heartwarming to learn how AER can be as rewarding for staff as it is for students, who we’ll hear from next. To continue reading, look for Part II.

Jenny Grant Rankin Ph.D.

Jenny Grant Rankin, Ph.D., is a Fulbright Specialist for the U.S. Department of State.

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Public Health Sciences Learning Objectives

Public health sciences students graduate with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace, public health sciences major - learning objectives.

Students in the Public Health Sciences major graduate with the following skills and abilities: 

  • Describe the concept of population health and the basic processes, approaches, and interventions specific to the needs and concerns of populations. 
  • Evaluate the source and quality of health information and data as related to individual and community health. 
  • Demonstrate mastery in public health communication skills including oral communication and written communication for both lay and expert audiences.
  • Assess the values and perspectives of diverse individuals, communities, and cultures, and describe how these factors influence health behaviors, choices, and practices. 
  • Engage in collaborative, team-based, and interdisciplinary approaches for improving population health. 
  • Identify public health tools and evidence-based strategies to respond to public health issues in a global world.
  • Gain awareness of and exposure to the broad and diverse range of areas of study within the field of public health, and identify and explore areas that are of personal interest.

The Public Health Sciences major is accredited by the Council for Education on Public Health

Courses in the Public Health Sciences major provide instruction in the following domains and competencies, developed by the Council for Education on Public Health. 

Foundational Domains

  • The concepts and applications of basic statistics 
  • The foundations of biological and life sciences 
  • The history and philosophy of public health as well as its core values, concepts, and functions across the globe and in society 
  • The basic concepts, methods, and tools of public health data collection, use, and analysis and why evidence-based approaches are an essential part of public health practice 
  • The concepts of population health, and the basic processes, approaches and interventions that identify and address the major health-related needs and concerns of populations 
  • The underlying science of human health and disease, including opportunities for promoting and protecting health across the life course 
  • The socioeconomic, behavioral, biological, environmental, and other factors that impact human health and contribute to health disparities 
  • The fundamental concepts and features of project implementation, including planning, assessment, and evaluation 
  • The fundamental characteristics and organizational structures of the U.S. health system as well as the differences between systems in other countries 
  • Basic concepts of legal, ethical, economic, and regulatory dimensions of health care and public health policy and the roles, influences, and responsibilities of the different agencies and branches of government 
  • Basic concepts of public health-specific communication, including technical and professional writing and the use of mass media and electronic technology

Foundational Competencies

  • Communicate public health information, in both oral and written forms, through a variety of media and to diverse audiences 
  • Locate, use, evaluate, and synthesize public health information

Accreditation

The Public Health Sciences major at UMass Amherst is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health, which is an independent agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit schools of public health, and public health programs outside schools of public health.

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graduate student research skills

What to Know About Undergraduate Research

Many students don’t consider undergraduate research when searching for a co-op or internship, but it can have the same benefits – if not better – than those traditional options. This blog will detail the benefits of undergraduate research, including skills you can gain, types of research, and how to find opportunities.

Benefits of Undergraduate Research

The field of research is the heart of innovation and is responsible for the continuous advancement of medical care, artificial intelligence, space exploration, and so much more. Similar to an industry internship or co-op, participating in a research lab gives students the opportunity to gain experience, build a relevant skillset, and learn about their field. Unique to research, though, is the development of critical thinking skills. Because they’re constantly looking for new answers, methods, or ideas, researchers build very strong critical thinking skills, which are highly desired in the world of engineering. Other skills like independence and collaboration are also specially attained in research because you are responsible for designing/completing your own experiments and analyzing the results with multidisciplinary teams. Beyond technical and interpersonal skills, research also provides the opportunity to present and publish your work. Whether you present your research at a conference or publish it in a research journal, being an author on a formal technical document is an amazing qualification to have when applying for a position – in both industry and academia!

How to Find Opportunities

Research opportunities may be posted on job boards, like Handshake or LinkedIn, but you’re more likely to find them elsewhere. There are two main types of research opportunities you will find: on-campus at Ohio State and at other institutions. Ohio State professors love to take on undergraduate students and frequently have positions available. The best way to find professors and information about their research is on the department website (i.e., biomedical engineering ). Many departments have professors separated by research interest, so it is very easy to search within a field you are interested in. From here, you can reach out by email to professors to ask them about open positions (I like to format it similar to a cover letter, but ECS can help draft an email with you!). On-campus research can be completed during the school year while still taking classes or during the summer, where you can take on more hours. On the contrary, off-campus research is more similar to an internship, where you can work full-time over the summer or take a co-op during an academic term. Specifically during the summer, many universities offer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REUs) where you typically live on that universities campus. 

Ultimately, there are a plethora of research opportunities here at Ohio State and across the nation, which are frequently available for younger students without prior experience. Getting involved in research can help you build a unique and relevant skillset that’ll make you stand out on job applications while also getting hands-on experience in advanced topics. Research experience is just as impactful as internship or co-op experience, so start your search today!

“Don’t wait for opportunity, create it.” - George Bernard Shaw

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NS 7030 Seminar in Nutritional Sciences

Course description.

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2023-2024 . Courses of Study 2024-2025 is scheduled to publish mid-June.

This graduate nutrition course addresses the analytic and professional skills required to critique original research publications and make public presentations to a broad audience. Students critically analyze and interpret findings from research articles published in a wide variety of journals related to the field of nutritional sciences. Students present these critiques to a broad multi-disciplinary audience, and participate in the seminars presented by other students.

When Offered Fall, Spring.

Permission Note Enrollment limited to: graduate students.

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  Regular Academic Session.  

Credits and Grading Basis

1 Credit S/U NoAud (Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory (no audit))

Class Number & Section Details

 7619 NS 7030   SEM 101

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  • W 12:20pm - 1:10pm To Be Assigned
  • Aug 26 - Dec 9, 2024

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Instruction Mode: In Person Enrollment limited to graduate standing. Please contact DNS Student Services [email protected] with any questions about enrollment.

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IMAGES

  1. Research Skills

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  2. Research Skills Toolkit

    graduate student research skills

  3. Essential Research Skills for Students

    graduate student research skills

  4. College Research Skills Tutorial

    graduate student research skills

  5. PPT

    graduate student research skills

  6. Graduate Research

    graduate student research skills

VIDEO

  1. 4. Research Skills

  2. Doing ML Research as a Graduate Student

  3. How to be an Effective Research Adviser? PART 1

  4. Deep Dive into Search Coach and How it Improves Student Research Skills

  5. Undergraduate Research Experience Sharing 2021: Meeting with Undergraduate Researcher

  6. Find the Right Database for your Research

COMMENTS

  1. 15 Graduate Research Student Skills For Your Resume

    Continue reading to find out what skills a graduate research student needs to be successful in the workplace. The eight most common skills for graduate research students in 2024 based on resume usage. Lab Equipment, 10.7%. Laboratory Equipment, 6.2%. Python, 5.8%.

  2. PhD Transferable Skills

    Essential Skills and Competencies for Graduate Students 1: Skill. Definition of skill. ... Manage volunteers during graduate research. Organize an event outside of department or university. Research. The ability to define a problem, identify relevant resources, define parameters, synthesize and cite the work of others, prioritize and assign ...

  3. Empowering students to develop research skills

    Empowering students to develop research skills. February 8, 2021. This post is republished from Into Practice, a biweekly communication of Harvard's Office of the Vice Provost for Advances in Learning. Terence D. Capellini, Richard B Wolf Associate Professor of Human Evolutionary Biology, empowers students to grow as researchers in his Building the Human Body course through a comprehensive ...

  4. Learn How to Develop Research Questions and Proposals

    A key set of research skills involve designing research questions and proposals, and building support for your research plans. Developing such skills can be relevant not only to research oriented careers, but also to careers where you are responsible for proposing or developing new projects, programs, products, services, or policies. Before you can propose effective research or other ...

  5. How to Become a Graduate Student: A Guide for Researchers

    Becoming a graduate student is a rewarding but challenging goal that requires research skills, academic preparation, and personal motivation. Whether you want to pursue a master's or a doctoral ...

  6. The Best Research Skills For Success

    A librarian is always a good person to have around, especially when it comes to research. Most students don't seek help from their school librarian, however, this person tends to be someone with a vast amount of knowledge when it comes to research skills and where to look for reliable sources. 6. Use library databases.

  7. Tools to Promote Grad Student Success: Research Skills

    Today I want to discuss another tool that graduate students need for success: research skills. The art of conducting research has many components. First, students need to formulate research questions, preferably research questions that are going to be incremental, if not significant, additions to the field.

  8. PDF Measuring graduate students' teaching and research skills ...

    Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association, Denver, CO, April 30-May 4, 2010. Abstract. This study extends research on graduate student development by examining descriptive findings. and validity of a self-report survey designed to capture graduate students' assessments of their.

  9. Graduate Students' Teaching Experiences Improve Their Methodological

    Several small, qualitative studies report benefits of teaching for graduate student participants' research development. One found that 21 of 27 teaching assistants leading undergraduate labs reported positive benefits to their research skills as a result of their teaching experiences ().Another found that 33% of research advisors supervising participants in a National Science Foundation (NSF ...

  10. Research Skills

    Thomas L. Reynolds Graduate Student Research Award. Up to $1,500 for doctoral or master's students to assist with costs often overlooked in other funding sources. For more information on this and other funding alternatives, visit the Graduate School's Funding site. To apply for a fellowship, please visit the NinerScholars portal .

  11. Broadening the Definition of 'Research Skills' to Enhance Students

    Undergraduate and master's programs—thesis- or non-thesis-based—provide students with opportunities to develop research skills that vary depending on their degree requirements.

  12. PDF Performance-based assessment of graduate student research skills

    Significant, positive adjusted residual values along the diagonal indicated that the two criteria scored at the same level for a given proposal significantly more often than would be predicted by chance (e.g. a score of 2 on one criterion disproportionately co-occurred with a score of 2 on another criterion).

  13. How Mentorship Boosts Graduate Students' Research Skills

    A final benefit of mentorship is that it can help you plan your career path and prepare for the transition from graduate student to researcher. A mentor can help you explore your career options ...

  14. Performance-based assessment of graduate student research skills

    The development of research skills and scientific reasoning underpins the mission of graduate education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, yet our understanding of this process is mainly drawn from self-report and faculty survey data.

  15. Measuring Graduate Students Research Skills

    Thus, this study has been carried out to measure the outcome of research skills among its graduates. The purpose of this research is to measure the research skills of graduates from the university and hope to contribute existing knowledge on student development of research skills. 4. Method An instrument to measure research skills of graduate ...

  16. Enhancing Research Skills in Graduate School: Effective Methods and

    Enhancing research skills is a primary goal for many graduate students. Having strong research skills is crucial not only for conducting research but also for developing your intellectual and academic growth. These skills can also come in handy for almost everything you do, especially once you're in the workforce.

  17. What a Graduate Student Does: A Guide to Academic Activities

    Yes, Research - More intensive for a Doctoral student Conducting research is a core component of graduate studies. Students would learn how to design experiments or studies, collect and analyze ...

  18. Research Skills and Knowledge

    UF Research oversees compliance with the multiple requirements and guidelines that must be followed according to different funding sources to conduct research at UF.This includes the following: Training. Many of the required training modules (including lab safety, FERPA guidelines, and sexual harassment prevention) are available through myTraining.The trainings you will need to complete will ...

  19. Research Skills and Opportunities

    Graduate Student Research Opportunities. The Mason Impact prepares students to tackle significant global questions and challenges and offers students opportunities to explore research and creative activities, civic engagement, entrepreneurship, and global activities. Knowing what's available will strengthen your ability to mentor students and ...

  20. Broadening the Definition of 'Research Skills' to Enhance Students

    Undergraduate and master's programs—thesis- or non-thesis-based—provide students with opportunities to develop research skills that vary depending on their degree requirements. However, there is a lack of clarity and consistency regarding the definition of a research skill and the components that are taught, practiced, and assessed. In response to this ambiguity, an environmental scan ...

  21. 6 Essential Graduate Student Skills to Make the Most Out of Your First

    6 Essential Graduate Student Skills to Make the Most Out of Your First Year. Research is hard! If you're working on anything modest, chances are it's already been done. If you're trying to make a real difference in your field of research, you'll most likely fail and then fail again. However, allowing failure to affect you personally and ...

  22. (PDF) Measuring Graduate Students Research Skills

    A random selection of degree and graduate students graduating at the end of 2010/2011 was asked to fill a questionnaire to measure the outcomes in research knowledge and skills. The administration ...

  23. Measuring graduate students' global competence: Instrument development

    Graduate students are expected to participate in activities that require both research and English communication skills. For example, it is an important GC for non-native English-speaking graduate students to communicate in English at international conferences and in journal publications.

  24. Leveling Up: Essential Skills You'll Develop in Graduate School

    As you make progress in your graduate studies, you may have a chance to mentor undergraduate students, supervise research projects or lead teams. These experiences cultivate leadership skills such as mentorship, management, critical thinking and decision-making. Developing these skills as a leader prepares you for roles in your respective field.

  25. How to Choose a Graduate School

    Listening to their experiences as a graduate student and in the job market post-degree can help you gauge if the program is in line with your goals. 3. Keep your career goals in mind. ... Examine the types of credentials professionals in the industry possess and research the types of skills potential employers are looking for. Check to see that ...

  26. High School Students Thrive as Researchers

    Most (though not all) students who take on the challenge of AER are already high-performing and highly-motivated students; thus, they've already learned a lot of the research and analysis skills ...

  27. Public Health Sciences Learning Objectives

    Students in the Public Health Sciences major graduate with the following skills and abilities: Describe the concept of population health and the basic processes, approaches, and interventions specific to the needs and concerns of populations.

  28. What to Know About Undergraduate Research

    Benefits of Undergraduate Research. The field of research is the heart of innovation and is responsible for the continuous advancement of medical care, artificial intelligence, space exploration, and so much more. Similar to an industry internship or co-op, participating in a research lab gives students the opportunity to gain experience, build ...

  29. Class Roster

    This graduate nutrition course addresses the analytic and professional skills required to critique original research publications and make public presentations to a broad audience. Students critically analyze and interpret findings from research articles published in a wide variety of journals related to the field of nutritional sciences. Students present these critiques to a broad multi ...