Graduate School

GRADUATE SCHOOL

Graduate school is an advanced program of study that involves obtaining specialized knowledge in a concentrated or specific field. Graduate degrees are offered on three levels: Masters, Specialist, and Doctorate.

Masters degrees are offered in multiple fields of study, however some universities offer only doctoral programs in particular fields. A masters degree program can take between 1 and 3 years to complete. Some masters degrees are designed to lead to a doctorate degree while others are terminal degrees for a given profession.

Specialist degrees are typically completed in addition to a masters program and provide additional training and experience beyond what is required for the masters degree. This type of degree prepares students for professional certification or licensing.

Doctorate studies typically require the pursuit of original research for an academic program and take anywhere from 5-7 years to complete.

For further information regarding professional schools such as medical school, law school, and MBA programs refer to the professional school section.

Questions to ask before deciding on graduate school

Graduate school is a big decision that should be approached in a thoughtful way. Ask these questions first before sending off your applications: 

• Will graduate school assist me in meeting my career goals?
  • Some careers require additional education beyond a bachelor’s degree. If you have a career in mind, you can check the requirements for the career on O*Net and BLS.
  • Advanced degrees do not always lead to increased income and job prospects.Occasionally an advanced degree makes you too specialized and therefore less attractive. Full time experience is often preferred.
• What will I specialize in, and will my interest in that topic remain strong? 
  
  • Graduate school work is often highly specialized. Choosing your field means researching the same thing every day for 2-7 years. 
• Am I ready to re-enter school?
  • Committing to years more academic and research work can be intensive and strenuous. If you are not sure you’re well prepared, you can take a gap year(s) between graduation and your matriculation into graduate school. 

Reasons you may want to attend graduate school 

• Have a clear intent of what career you want to pursue and an advanced degree is required for entrance.
• Desire to immerse yourself in the study of a specific academic discipline.
• Desire to practice in a specialized career.
• Desire for a complete career change.
• Desire for career/salary advancement that requires a graduate degree.
• Desire to switch from practitioner to administrator.
• Need for professional licensing in your career.

How to prepare for graduate school

Detailed Graduate School Application Timeline

This timetable is approximate, but offers steps that you need to think about no later than the summer before your senior year. It is a good idea to start as soon as possible!