What is a Statement of Purpose?
The Statement of Purpose is a letter to the admissions committee that outlines your career path, interest or intent in pursuing graduate studies. Please write and upload a 750- to 1,000-word written statement of introduction plus interest in the program that also outlines any experience, knowledge or skills you have that you believe would make you successful in the program.
The statement of purpose can be broken into five parts:
- Introduction
Use the introduction to give a brief overview of your background and your current career goals. This is also where you should hook in the audience. What makes you stand out from the crowd?
- Why are you applying?
In the second section, describe how you came to be interested in your field of study. Give a few examples of your profes
sional experiences in the field. Describe how this specific program can help you to reach your goals and further your career.
- Why are you the right candidate?
Do some research on the specific school and program you are applying to. How do your personality, goals and experiences align with the program and the culture of the school?
- Future goals
Here, write about your long-term goals—where you see yourself in several years. Note the difference between the goals you mentioned earlier in the SOP, which should be about goals closer to the present, such as what you hope to achieve upon graduation from the program. Show that you have a long-term vision in place and how the program will help you reach that vision.
- Conclusion
Restate your professional goal for attending the program, how the program is the perfect fit and how you are excited to contribute to the institution as a student and eventually as an alum.
For additional assistance or questions, please contact us at infosci-grad@arizona.edu.