About Graduate Studies
Graduate Education at BYU
Graduate education is distinguished by advanced, systematic study and depth of experience—depth in knowledge, understanding, scholarly competence, inquiry, and discovery. Graduates are equipped to teach and transmit knowledge within their disciplines, to conduct research and produce creative works, to apply their learning in the everyday world, and ultimately to extend service to their disciplines and to humanity.
Although variety in focus, methodology, and implementation is expected across the spectrum of graduate programs at BYU, strong programs are characterized by selective admission of highly qualified students, a graduate faculty committed to excellence, and rigorous programs of study conducted in a context of faith.
A few fundamental principles characterize all strong graduate programs and emerge from and complement The Mission of Brigham Young University and The Aims of a BYU Education. These principles are listed below.
- Mastery of the subject matter. Graduate education facilitates mastery over the content and skills of the discipline at a level appropriate to the degree sought.
- Critical thinking. Graduate education develops and refines critical thinking skills, including a thorough knowledge of the assumptions of the discipline and an understanding of viable alternative assumptions.
- Theoretical understanding. Graduate education provides an understanding of the theoretical bases of the field of study. It grounds application and performance in theory.
- Proficiency in research and/or creative activities. Graduate education develops proficiencies that advance the knowledge and activities of the discipline. These proficiencies include good writing skills, as well as the ability to present original insights and creative expressions.
- Spiritual discernment and moral integrity. Graduate education facilitates the growth of integrity and wisdom and the integration of faith into the pursuit of knowledge within the discipline.
- Service orientation. Graduate education instills responsibility to return the special benefits of graduate training to the larger community.
- Wide representation of perspectives. Graduate education presents an intellectually and culturally rich encounter with the discipline. Study and inquiry are conducted in a context sensitive to ethnic and cultural differences.
Although the implementation of these principles is primarily the responsibility of departments and colleges, the university Graduate Council and the Dean of Graduate Studies provide guidance and support.
The Mission of Graduate Studies
Interesting Facts:
- BYU was established in 1875
- The first graduate degrees were awarded in 1919
- BYU has 92 graduate programs in 47 departments
- History of the Former President's Home