Pre-PhD in the CASA
Pre-PhD Mission and Goals
Georgia State University’s CASA provides centralized programming to generate interest and promote activities in pursuit of doctoral degrees. Undergraduates need support in recognizing and establishing characteristics that contribute to successful progress to and through a doctor of philosophy programs (Ph.D.) in their areas of interest.
The CASA also aims to sustain contact with alumni to facilitate post-PhD career success. Three main goals drive this pre-PhD programming: 1) help students identify and solidify their interests and eligibility for graduate school; 2) provide academic mentoring and support that keeps students on track toward successful graduate school applications and career progressions, both directly to students and indirectly through faculty development; and 3) expand research opportunities on all campuses.
Sample Pre-PhD Opportunities
Get Yourself Recruited Into Pre-PhD Programming
- Early ID: Be sure to take your first-year survey and get to know your course instructors
- Ask CASA leaders about various research opportunities associated with the CASA
- Stay up to date with our CASA calendar of events – academic opportunities panels, career discovery programs, alumni “like-me” features, and workshops on faculty interactions, graduate school applications, financing your education, etc.
Find Your Mentors
- Schedule appointments with CASA leaders to talk about your goals and set your timelines
- Seek advice on GRE test prep programs
- Build your mentoring team with faculty, staff, and other professionals who bring diverse career perspectives
Get Involved
- Check-in at the CASA every week and make it your home
- Join Georgia State clubs and professional societies related to your major
- Look for opportunities to develop your scholarly interests, such as Signature Experience classes, upper-level seminars, and internships
Pre – PhD Facts/ Figures
- Humanities majors completing PhDs (after 2008 graduation): 6
- STEM majors completing PhDs (after 2008 graduation): 73
- All majors completing PhDs (after 2008 graduation): 155