Prepare for Graduate School
Graduate school is not just a continuation of your undergraduate education. Graduate programs are available across nearly every field and generally fall into three categories:
Specialist Degrees – Advanced professional programs beyond a master's degree that prepare students for certification or licensure.
Doctoral Degrees – Research-focused programs that prepare graduates for leadership, teaching, or advanced professional practice and typically take 5–7 years.
Master's Degrees – Typically completed in 1–2 years and designed for career advancement or preparation for doctoral study.
Graduate School: Before applying, consider:
Will graduate school improve your career opportunities or earning potential?
Does your career require an advanced degree?
Would gaining work experience first better support your goals?
Research your field, speak with professionals, and meet with a career advisor to determine the best path for you.
Research programs to determine which degree aligns with your academic and career goals.
Helpful Next Steps:
- Conduct informational interviews with professionals.
- Research career requirements and explore graduate programs and admission requirements.
- Meet with a career advisor to discuss your options