UTRGV’s Brownsville Main Entrance Emilio Suarez
UTRGV graduate programs are available for students who are interested in continuing the academic journey. The university offers over 60 masters and doctoral programs across all disciplines.
Senior Graduate Student Recruiter Ana Chapa said the newest additions are a master of science in marketing and an upcoming master of science in finance, along with the programs in the college of health professions such as the doctor of physical therapy and occupational therapy doctoral programs.
Chapa said flexibility and value makes UTRGV graduate school stand out.
“We have online programs, accelerated programs, as well as the traditional on campus options,” Chapa said. “We really try to design programs for a wide spectrum of student needs.”
For students interested in applying, Chapa said most programs require a completed bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA of 3.0, a resume and letters of recommendation.
Chapa said one common mistake students make is waiting too long to build relationships with professors.
“I’ve seen a lot of students who don’t reach out to their professors about letters of recommendation until the deadline,” Chapa said. “So I think just making sure that you’re applying on time and that you’re communicating with your recommenders is a big one.”
UTRGV also hosts events to help students explore their options, including upcoming graduate fairs in Brownsville and Edinburg.
For students worried about affordability, Chapa says financial aid , scholarships and assistantships are available. Assistantships allow students to gain experience while earning a stipend.
Master of Science in Dietetics Program Arianna Garcia said her decision was driven by both career goals and local opportunities.
Garcia is working toward becoming a registered dietitian, a path that now requires advanced education.
“In order to become a registered dietitian, you need a master’s degree,” Garcia said.
She described graduate school as a fast paced and demanding experience with a strong focus on research and real world application.
“It is very evidence-based compared to undergraduates,” Garcia said. “It is very hands-on as well, so we gain experience through real world practice.”
Garcia said smaller class sizes and supervised experiential learning gives students the chance to build professional connections and gain field experience early on.
As she’s progressed through the program, Garcia said her mindset has shifted especially in how she approaches problems.
She also points out that graduate school can come with moments of self doubt, but emphasized the importance of confidence.
For more information visit UTRGV’s graduate admissions website.
This is Emilio Suarez for Vaquero Radio
