Your Dartmouth graduate school statement of purpose is an essential part of your application materials, and a key to how to get into grad school. Every master’s and PhD program at Dartmouth graduate school will ask for a grad school statement of purpose or other type of admissions essay, but the intent remains the same. Your Dartmouth graduate school statement of purpose needs to answer the “why” you want to study and “how” a graduate degree at Dartmouth will benefit you. In this blog, we’ll look at some Dartmouth graduate school statement of purpose examples, plus the application requirements you need to know to get writing!
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Dartmouth Graduate School Statement of Purpose Examples
Dartmouth Graduate School Statement of Purpose Example #1
Master of Arts in Liberal Studies
I am delighted to submit my statement of purpose for admission to Dartmouth University's Master of Arts in Liberal Studies program. The interdisciplinary nature of this program, coupled with Dartmouth's commitment to academic excellence and intellectual exploration, aligns perfectly with my academic background, research interests, and personal aspirations.
I completed my undergraduate degree in History at New England College, where I developed a deep appreciation for the study of the human experience across time and cultures. My coursework provided me with a solid foundation in historical research methods, critical analysis, and effective communication. Through examining various historical periods, I gained insights into the complexity of human societies, their achievements, struggles, and the dynamic forces that have shaped them.
My academic journey has been marked by a genuine curiosity about diverse subjects and a desire to make connections across disciplines. This has led me to pursue a wide range of courses in literature, philosophy, sociology, and art history, among others. The multidisciplinary approach inherent in the Master of Arts in Liberal Studies program at Dartmouth University resonates deeply with my intellectual inclinations, as it offers a unique opportunity to explore the interconnectedness of knowledge and acquire a broad understanding of the liberal arts.
In addition to my coursework, I actively engaged in research projects during my undergraduate studies. One of my most rewarding research experiences involved investigating the social and cultural impacts of the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. Through archival research and analysis of primary sources, I examined the transformation of working-class communities, the rise of labor movements, and the effects of industrialization on the environment. This research experience allowed me to develop critical thinking skills, refine my research methods, and enhanced my ability to synthesize complex information.
My research interests span a wide range of topics within the liberal arts. I am particularly interested in exploring the intersections of history, literature, and philosophy. I am intrigued by how historical narratives shape our understanding of the present and how literary and philosophical works reflect and challenge prevailing social and cultural norms. I aim to examine the ways in which narratives are constructed and deconstructed, the influence of power dynamics on historical accounts, and the role of literature in capturing the human experience.
Furthermore, I am drawn to the exploration of identity, representation, and social justice within the liberal arts. I am eager to investigate the complexities of race, gender, and class as they manifest in literature, art, and social structures. I believe that an interdisciplinary approach is essential for understanding and addressing the systemic inequalities and injustices prevalent in our societies. Through research, I hope to contribute to ongoing conversations surrounding equity and inclusivity and explore how the liberal arts can foster meaningful dialogue and positive social change.
Dartmouth’s Master of Arts in Liberal Studies program offers an ideal platform to further pursue my research interests and intellectual growth. The program's emphasis on interdisciplinary inquiry, small class sizes, and close faculty mentorship will provide me with the necessary tools and support to undertake rigorous research projects. I am particularly excited about the opportunity to collaborate with renowned faculty members and engage in vibrant discussions with fellow students who share my passion for knowledge and intellectual exploration.
I am confident that the program will provide me with an enriching and transformative educational experience. I am eager to immerse myself in the interdisciplinary nature of the program, collaborate with esteemed faculty, and engage in rigorous research that addresses the complexities of the human condition.
Dartmouth Graduate School Statement of Purpose Example #2
Master’s in Computer Science
I am excited to submit my statement of purpose for admission to Dartmouth University's Master's program in Computer Science. With its esteemed faculty, rigorous curriculum, and vibrant research community, Dartmouth University offers the ideal environment for me to further enhance my academic knowledge, technical skills, and research expertise in the field of computer science.
My academic background has prepared me well for advanced studies in computer science. I completed my undergraduate degree in Computer Engineering at University of California, Berkeley, where I gained a strong foundation in computer science fundamentals, including data structures, algorithms, programming languages, and computer architecture. The diverse coursework provided me with a holistic understanding of the field and instilled in me a passion for solving complex problems through innovative technological solutions.
During my undergraduate studies, I actively engaged in research projects that allowed me to delve deeper into specific areas of computer science. I worked as a research assistant in the UC Berkeley Robotics Lab, where I contributed to the development of a collaborative robotic system capable of complex manipulation tasks. This experience not only enhanced my technical skills in areas such as computer vision and machine learning but also nurtured my ability to work in a team, manage projects, and communicate research findings effectively.
My research interests in computer science are focused on the intersection of artificial intelligence and human-computer interaction. I am particularly intrigued by the potential of machine learning and natural language processing to improve user experiences and facilitate intelligent interactions between humans and machines. I am eager to explore how advancements in these areas can be applied to create innovative solutions in fields such as healthcare, education, and human-computer interfaces.
In addition to my academic pursuits, I have gained valuable work experience in the technology industry. I interned at Insights software development company, where I contributed to the development of a mobile application that streamlined business operations and improved efficiency. This experience allowed me to apply my technical knowledge in a real-world context, collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, and gain insights into the practical challenges and opportunities in software development.
Furthermore, I have actively sought out opportunities to expand my technical expertise and stay updated with the latest developments in the field. I have participated in online courses and workshops on topics such as deep learning, computer vision, and natural language processing. These experiences have not only enhanced my technical skills but also demonstrated my commitment to lifelong learning and continuous improvement.
My specific goals for pursuing a Master's degree in Computer Science at Dartmouth University are twofold. Firstly, I aim to deepen my technical knowledge and skills in areas such as machine learning, data mining, and human-computer interaction. I am particularly interested in exploring advanced algorithms and techniques for extracting insights from large-scale datasets and developing intelligent systems that can adapt to user needs and preferences.
Secondly, I am eager to engage in research at Dartmouth University and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of computer science. I am particularly interested in collaborating with faculty members and fellow students on research projects that address real-world challenges and have a positive impact on society. Dartmouth's strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and its vibrant research community provide an ideal platform for me to pursue innovative research that bridges the gap between computer science and other domains.
Dartmouth University's Master's program in Computer Science stands out to me due to its comprehensive curriculum, esteemed faculty, and emphasis on both theoretical foundations and practical applications. The opportunity to work closely with renowned faculty members and collaborate with fellow students who share my passion for computer science is incredibly appealing. I am particularly excited about the prospect of engaging in cutting-edge research and exploring interdisciplinary collaborations across Dartmouth's various research centers and initiatives. I am positive the program will provide me with an exceptional educational experience, enabling me to achieve my goals and make significant contributions in the field of computer science.
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Dartmouth Graduate School Statement of Purpose Requirements
Almost every Dartmouth graduate school program requires a statement of purpose, sometimes referred to as a proposal of study or grad school statement of career goals, depending on the program. Some programs simply ask for a grad school admissions essay, but the general purpose and content of these essays are the same. Dartmouth’s PhD programs also ask applicants to submit a grad school statement of purpose.
Essentially, the Dartmouth statement of purpose should answer the common questions “why do you want to join our graduate program?” or “why do you want to do a PhD?”
Here’s what should be covered in your Dartmouth graduate school statement of purpose, no matter which program you’re applying to:
- A brief description of your undergraduate studies and academic background
- Why you want to study at the graduate level
- Why you’ve chosen Dartmouth specifically
- What your academic and professional goals are, and how Dartmouth’s graduate program will help you realize them
Some research-focused programs at Dartmouth will ask you to include your research interests or how you plan to contribute to current research within the program. For these programs, your Dartmouth graduate school statement of purpose will be somewhat combined with a research interest statement. Whichever program you’re applying to at Dartmouth, be sure to check the specific questions being asked and address them in your statement of purpose.
It's important to note that your statement of purpose should not be a carbon copy of your research resume or graduate school resume. While you might reference the experiences included in your resume, the goal of your statement of purpose is to demonstrate to the admissions committee that you are prepared for graduate level study, that you are a good fit for Dartmouth’s graduate school programs and that attending the program will advance your career goals.
Quick Tips for Your Dartmouth Graduate School Statement of Purpose
FAQs
1. How do you write a good statement of purpose for grad school?
To write a good statement of purpose for grad school, focus on answering the key questions:
- Why do you want to study at the graduate level?
- How have you prepared for graduate study?
- Why this program?
- What will you contribute to our academic community?
- How will this program help you achieve your career goals?
Your statement of purpose should be concise, to the point and professional. Avoid restating your resume or other parts of your application.
2. Does Dartmouth graduate school require a statement of purpose?
Yes, Dartmouth’s graduate programs and PhD programs require applicants to submit a written statement of purpose. Some programs may refer to it as an admissions essay or proposal of study.
3. Does Dartmouth grad school require a personal statement?
Only some of the Dartmouth grad school programs require a personal statement instead of a statement of purpose. Typically, the health-related graduate programs ask for a personal statement, which is more narrative and personal, instead of having a heavy academic and professional focus.
4. How long should my statement of purpose be?
Dartmouth doesn’t provide a specific word count for your statement of purpose for grad school, but it’s best to keep it between 500-750 words.
5. What does Dartmouth look for in a statement of purpose for grad school?
Dartmouth’s grad school programs are looking for students who are prepared for graduate level study, passionate about their chosen fields and who have clear professional goals. Some programs may also seek students with prior research experience and specific research interests and goals.
6. What’s the difference between a statement of purpose and a personal statement?
A grad school statement of purpose has an academic focus, uses professional tone and language, and is more to the point and concise. A personal statement has a narrative structure and is a bit more personable.
7. What is the acceptance rate for Dartmouth graduate school programs?
The acceptance rate for Dartmouth’s graduate school programs is just under 8%, so programs can be quite selective and competitive to get into.
8. How do you start a statement of purpose for grad school?
To being a statement of purpose for grad school, briefly introduce yourself and your academic background. Mention which graduate program you’re interested in and why you are applying. Lastly, Share what you studied as an undergrad, any specific research or field work you’ve participated in.
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