What is grad school like? What are the requirements?

How is grad school different from being an undergrad? I know you do a thesis, but what all is involved in that? I'm really lost on all of this. I'm a first generation college student and I'm working on my undergrad degree right now in clinical laboratory science, and I know eventually I will want my master's probably in biochemistry. (I want to do laboratory research) so what all is required to get a master's degree?

What is grad school like? What are the requirements?
First of all, that's great that you want to go on to grad school! I'm working on my masters in music, so I can't help you with specifics on a degree in biochemistry, but I can tell you that grad school is different from undergraduate work because of the emphasis on scholarship and research. The professors expect a lot more out of you, but also treat you with more respect. For an average undergrad paper, your professors might want 10 sources, but graduate professors will want closer to 20. It's a wonderful environment to work in because everyone is excited about being there and serious about what they're doing. Good luck!
Reply:woo, what a question. All i can say is that things alter from university to university.


I am currently at OSU, basically what is required for a masters is a couple classes (grad level) some basic rotations in labs (meaning you try several labs throughout the first year until you find one you are comfortable with) and a thesis of some sort. Probably take you 2 to 3 years with the possibility of 4. I say go straight for the PhD and get out in 6.


The thesis is a written compilation of the work you have completed in the lab. The length and degree of specificity varies from department to department.





AS far as what is different. You may be asked to teach some classes, or at least grade papers. Also, you are required to work the minimum of 8 hours a day (class or no class). So not nearly as much free time as an undergrad has. Also, depending on your lab they may require working weekends.





The best thing you can do is find some schools with the degree you are looking for and talk to someone in admissions (better yet, a professor at the university) or find a student at the school.





Good Luck to you!
Reply:IT ALL DEPENDS ON YOUR MAJOR AND UNIVERSITY. I WILL BE GETTING MY MASTERS IN SOCIAL WORK AND SINCE MY UNDERGRAD IS ALSO IN SOCIAL WORK , I HAVE LESS REQUIREMENTS THAN SOMEONE WHO IS SEEKING A SOCIAL WORK MASTERS WITH AN UNDERGRAD IN PSYCHOLOGY.





EACH UNIVERSITY HAS DIFFERENT REQUIREMENTS. YOU MAY WANT TO CHECK WITH YOUR UNIVERSITY.





BEST WISHES TO YOU!