In this article, we analyzed research studies in the field of graduate education. In particular, we explored the issue of inequity in graduate education through three key lenses of social science analyses. Furthermore, we analyzed selected quantitative research studies that undertook a comparative examination of aggregate trends in enrollment and completion of graduate programs across race, ethnicity, and gender. We examined selected social theories that help surface the intergenerational and social nature of predictors of participation in graduate school. Finally, we reviewed selected diversity programs in which the issue of inequity was addressed. Highlighted in our discussion is the importance of graduate education to both individuals and society, the underrepresentation of ethnic minority students in the graduate education pipeline and degree holding population, student support and diversity programs and initiatives, and the variety of research studies conducted in higher education with regard to minority participation and success.