Consult the IB/CBS/university graduate studies website
Ask questions
Before agreeing on a position, talk or email current and past graduate students in your potential advisor's lab to get feedback on advising style, work conditions, expectations and support, etc...
What is the difference between a course- and thesis- based degree?
Course-based
Training for specific job skills
Theoretical - practical
More prescribed by the program
Surveys of techniques
Thesis-based
Training for career skills (e.g. active project management and problem-solving skills)