Learning about Graduate School

Find out if graduate school is right for you.

Learning about Graduate School

Have you considered more school after college?

Maybe you love learning, conducting research, or want to develop a specialty, a graduate program may be what you are looking for!

Keep Reading to Learn:

  • The purpose of graduate school
  • The diverse options of pursuing a graduate degree

What is graduate school?

Graduate degree programs offer advanced training (beyond a bachelor’s degree) in a specific academic discipline or profession. It emphasizes focused studies in a specific discipline; work experience through internships, teaching, or research; production of original research.

How long does graduate school take?

Master’s Degree – 1 to 3 years

Professional Degree (J.D., DPT) – 3 to 5 years

Ph.D. – 5 to 8 years

Types of Graduate Degrees

Purple Box with white heading stating Master's Degree. White text reads The Master of Arts is the typical Master’s graduate program for humanities and social science disciplines. The Master of Science is the typical Master’s graduate program for scientific and quantitative disciplines.
Purple box with white text that reads Doctoral Degree PhD stands for Doctor of Philosophy. The Doctor of Philosophy prepares students to do academic work in their discipline—research and teaching—and for positions at universities and research institutions.
Purple box that reads Graduate versus Professional school A graduate degree provides advanced training in an academic discipline. A professional degree provides advanced training for a specific profession.

Next Steps

  • Make time to take inventory of your career goals and aspirations. Do your career goals require further education? Do you want to continue learning and growing through an academic program?
  • Connect with the Career Development Center to inquire further
  • Speak with faculty advisor or mentor to receive more guidance