Figure out your professional goals and what you want from the master's program you enter. Master's programs tend to be highly specialized, offering degrees in particular aspects of one career field, such as educational psychology or teaching English as a Second Language students. Once you know what you want from your education, you'll be better equipped to find the program that's right for you.
Talk with a career counselor at your undergraduate university about your options. Explain what you want from the program and the career you wish to pursue. The career counselor can help you start making a list of possible programs, as well as pinpointing what's most important to you in the program you plan to follow.
Visit each university you are considering to learn more about its program. The achievements of the faculty, for example, can give you a better idea of what the program focuses on, such as research or publishing. Talk with the head of the program, some professors and students if possible. Some universities may even allow you to sit in on a class or two.
Learn more about the thesis or capstone project that is required for each master's program. This project also gives you an idea of what that program will be focusing on in terms of the education and practical experience you receive.
Assess your financial situation and life options. People attending master's programs are more than just students. They're often adults with jobs, spouses, families and other responsibilities. Consider the cost of each program you're looking at carefully, as well as the location and possible demands on your time.