Out of school for 2 years - going back for M.S.

Graduate School
1

<p>Hi folks,</p>

<p>Here is my situation. I have been out of school for two years at an IT job and I'd like to go back to school next year to pursue a Master's degree. </p>

<p>My greatest fear is that my application may not look very impressive compared to that of other applicants. I'd like some guidance on things that I can do to improve my chances and suggestions on grad schools/programs to apply to (safety, match, reach).</p>

<p>B.S. in Computer Science from Carnegie Mellon University, 3.38 GPA
I've been studying for the GRE for about two months and will be taking it later this year - Looking for 165+ on math and 160+ on verbal
Did not do research in undergrad so most of my references will probably come from my employers. Would this be okay?
I am looking to apply to a terminal Masters, or a course-based Masters. My interests are either in robotics or human-computer interaction and stuff along those lines.<br>
Do you think having my own personal projects would help?</p>

<p>Well, there you have it. I know I'm not very impressive at all but if you would please give me constructive criticism on schools that I should be considering and steps that I can take now, I would greatly appreciate it.</p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

2

<p>Most academic programs want to see most of your references come from professors. The idea is that you need people who can attest to your academic ability - your ability to succeed in classwork. You may want to get at least 2 letters from professors. If your employer’s recommendation is really outstanding, make them the third. If this is a research-based program and you have an interest in going into a research career, then 3 academic references is best, but if your goal is go back into the workforce, then the 2 + employer should be okay.</p>

<p>Having personal projects can help depending on what they are. If they are relevant to the program’s goals and related to what current professors are doing, they can be very helpful.</p>

<p>You can also take a graduate course or two in CS at your local university to show that you can handle graduate level work.</p>