Skip to main content

Investigating graduate school

Graduate school is a specialized course of study. While an undergraduate education provides broad knowledge with some specialization in a major area, graduate school focuses exclusively on a specific area of study.

There are many types of graduate degrees.  The most common are master and doctoral degrees.

Master’s Degrees involve 1–2 years of full-time work to complete.
Typical degrees: Master of Arts, Master of Science, Master of Physical Therapy, Master of Social Work, Master of Public Health, and Master of Public Administration.

Doctoral Degrees involve 4–6 full-time years to complete.
Typical degrees: Doctor of Philosophy, Doctor of Education, Juris Doctor (law degree), Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, and Medical Doctor.

Each degree may be granted from a variety of programs. For example, a student may receive a Master of Science in Microbiology or a Master of Science in Psychology. Some degrees can be completed on a part-time basis over an extended period of time.

According to Green and Minton, authors of From Beyond the Ivy Wall (Little, Brown & Co), there are 3 basic reasons (or a combination of them) to go to graduate school:

  • A graduate degree is essential for going into certain professions.
  • A graduate degree impacts career advancement.
  • A graduate degree can give the personal satisfaction derived from advanced learning.

When making decisions about graduate school, talk to a faculty advisor and/or use Career Services resources including meeting with a Career Counselor, reviewing Blugolds Career Alumni Network (CAN), and talking to alumni who have completed graduate school.

Research graduate school options 

COB MBA hooding at Commencement

Finding a grad school

Find tips and resources here to best find and evaluate the graduate programs where you might want to apply.

What program is for me?
We want to hear from you

Please enter your name

Please enter a valid email address

Please enter a valid phone number

Please enter a message