Graduate School
There are many reasons to think about further education:
- You are part of a pre-professional program that requires additional schooling (law, medicine, etc.)
- You met a professor or took a class that ignited an academic or research interest that you want to pursue further
- You entered your undergraduate program with the intent to eventually go on to a graduate program
- Most positions in your career field of interest require further education
- ... as well as many others!
Factors to Consider
Commitment
Depending on your choice of study, earning your graduate degree can take anywhere from 1 to 8 years.
Cost
Many college graduates have debt to repay from earning their undergraduate degree. Attending graduate school could mean incurring more loans and debt.
Location
If you decide not to earn your degree online, oftentimes it will involve you moving to another city, state, or country. Before you submit your application, ask yourself if living in that area for a period of time will suit your needs.
Timing
While some people plan to attend graduate school directly after earning their undergraduate degree, some programs actually discourage it. For MBA programs, the average matriculation age is 28, and applicants come in with an average of 5 years of professional work experience. Admissions committees consider the professional experience a strength rather than a weakness. Professional experience requirements (if any) will vary depending on the program. Check these requirements ahead of time. It may be more of a challenge to leave a job and commit to graduate school full-time. Programs may also have different options for full-time employees. Program flexibility will vary by subject matter and school.
