What is Grad School and Why Should You Go?

This may seem like an unnecessary question, especially if you’re already here to search for a program. Grad school looks different to different people. Maybe you’re an undergrad student who wants to jump right into grad school after graduation, or you’ve been in the workforce for a while and think grad school may advance your career. Or perhaps you’re just tired of your current career and thinking about getting a graduate degree to switch careers entirely.

When deciding whether you want to go to graduate school, it’s important to take a few things into consideration. For example, will a master’s degree advance your career and salary? If you’re in the business, health care or education fields, then the answer is probably yes. If you’re in the film industry or a music major, the answer may be no. That’s not to say anyone from any major can’t or shouldn’t get a master’s or Ph.D. degree, but it may well depend on your future goals and plans.

When making your decision, consider the following:

• Will a graduate degree provide promotion opportunities within your current career?
• Will it afford you a salary increase within your current career?
• Will your current employer contribute some or all to your advanced education? If not, can you afford a graduate degree?
• Does your current lifestyle (e.g., full-time job, family) allow you the time needed to go to graduate school and complete the assignments?
• If you want to change careers completely, will a graduate degree help in acquiring a new job in a new field?
• If you’re an undergraduate student considering going straight into graduate school, will that second degree increase your chances of getting a job when you’re finished?

Wherever you fall in the grad school decision-making process, we’re here for you at the beginning of your process, and we’ll continue to support you throughout your journey.