Graduate students need to meet higher academic standards than undergraduates, experts say. To thrive in graduate programs, they also need purpose, focus, and enthusiasm. “Graduate school is more focused and professional than college,” Michelle Wackerman, dean of admissions at Columbia University’s School of Professional Studies in New York, wrote in an email. "Students don't often change majors, and courses are geared toward specific fields or areas of study." Should You Go to Graduate School? How to Decide
While this type of higher education can be fulfilling and valuable, it is not right for everyone people. "If a student is not sure what they want to do, graduate school may not be a wise idea because it does not offer the same opportunities for career exploration as a bachelor's degree," said Jillene Seiver, senior lecturer and associate director of psychology at Eastern Washington University School of Psychology, wrote in an email.
Those who find the academic workload of a bachelor's degree program extremely challenging may not be prepared for the rigors of graduate school. But higher education experts say college alumni who excelled as undergraduates often have a love of learning, which can make them well-suited for graduate programs. However, experts say even people who do well in college should consider whether a graduate certificate will help their careers before applying to graduate school.
The key to success in graduate school is a sense of purpose, says Jody Britten, co-founder of SheLeadsEdu, which provides career advice and training to women working in education. Graduate students are most successful "when they know what they are passionate about...if they are going to grad school because they feel they need to go to grad school or they don't know what they are going to or they just want to join Salary, that’s when there’s no reward,” said Britton, who holds a Ph.D. in the field of education. "We don't see them completing their degrees then." What are the different types of graduate programs?
There are many graduate certificates, some of which can be obtained quickly, while others require a significant amount of time. Colleges sometimes offer short-term, non-degree post-baccalaureate certificates and diplomas that can be completed in a few months. In contrast, master's programs last at least one academic year, and doctoral programs typically require several years of study.
A master's degree education builds on the knowledge gained through a bachelor's degree. A master's degree usually precedes a doctorate, as the latter is usually the most advanced certificate within the discipline.
There are two types of PhD degrees. Applied PhDs focus on leveraging existing knowledge to solve real-world problems and prepare future industry leaders. Research PhDs address unsolved problems in a specific discipline and train future scholars. “Graduate school can mean many things,” Pierre Huguet, CEO of admissions consulting firm Hamp;C Education, wrote in an email. "There's a big difference between starting an MS or MA program, going to law school or business school, and starting a 5- to 7-year doctoral journey."