Considering graduate studies?

Different expectations
Dealing with disclosure issues
The ins and outs of financial support

If you're currently in university and doing well, you may be thinking about graduate studies as a possible next step. Perhaps an MBA or law school beckons.

The stakes are higher in graduate school. There is more competition and far more stress. However, more and more students with psychiatric disabilities are choosing to enroll in graduate studies and are successful in their programs.

Different expectations

Graduate programs expect a great deal more independence and initiative from students than that required at the undergraduate level. You will need to assess your ability to work independently, without a lot of feedback and support.

The higher expectations and pressure may also mean that you have to take advantage of support that you did not feel the need for in your undergraduate years (e.g., the Disability Services Office, Counseling Services).

However, there also tends to be more flexibility in graduate programs - regarding deadlines, for example. This flexibility may help to balance some of the other pressures.

Dealing with disclosure issues

For many students applying for graduate studies, the decision about whether to disclose their disability becomes more complicated. The fear of stigma and discrimination may be higher, and with good reason. The intense competition for admission, and the competitive environment within the program, may not provide an environment conducive to support and academic accommodations.

It's wise to consult with the Disability Services Office of the university you are considering before you submit an application. Staff members will know the culture of the graduate programs within their institution and can advise you on how to handle the disclosure issue.

The ins and outs of financial support

Tuition fees for graduate studies, particularly professional programs, are steep. Graduate scholarships are available to both part-time and full-time students. Similar to the undergraduate level, it is also possible for a student with a disability to carry less than a full course load and retain full-time status. Talk to the Disability Services Office about the required documentation.

Employment as a teaching assistant is another standard source of income for graduate students. However, if you find teaching too stressful it may be possible to arrange for a research assistantship instead. Or you may find you can manage a teaching assistantship if you reduce your course load. Again, you will want to talk to the Disability Services Office well in advance, to determine the available options

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