Deciding to attend graduate school is a big decision and should not be taken lightly. It takes more commitment than many people realize. Even full time graduate students with few outside activities can be shocked by the amount of work required and the other expectations that can go with a graduate program. Graduate programs with an emphasis on academic careers (MA and PhD programs) often require substantial involvement in professional organizations, conference attendance and conference presentations, publishing, and research—on top of a crazy amount of course work. Some programs actually require full time attendance too, so juggling non-academic commitments (family, work, social life, and various other things) can seem nearly impossible.
On the other hand, not all graduate programs are tailored for academic careers. Some are absolutely geared for business and other professional credentials. And, plenty of programs can be completed on a part-time basis. Online programs are also growing, so location is less of an issue. However, all graduate programs are expensive, often more than double the cost of undergraduate credits. Some graduate programs have funding available, but competition can be high because those funds are normally very limited. In some cases, an employer might offer tuition assistance, but employer assistance is not the norm. For many people, loans or paying out of pocket might be the only options available.
Given the cost and commitment, it’s extremely important to consider whether or not an advanced degree is the right choice at the right time. Unlike many undergraduate degrees, which can be applied in different roles, graduate programs tend to be more specialized and prepare people for something specific. If I earned a Master’s Degree in Family Therapy (just an example) it would be expected that I search for jobs in that field. Sending application materials to unrelated positions would look very strange from an employer perspective. In fact, if I earned that degree and decided I did not want to practice therapy after all, it could be hard to change paths depending on my prior work experience. In a tough economy, it could be even harder.
So, when considering whether or not to pursue an advanced degree, there are key questions to ask: Why do I want this degree? I mean really, honestly, why? Is it because I have a passion or because it will help me advance in my current career? If so, those are good reasons. Or, is it because I am unsatisfied with my current job and figure an advanced degree is the only option to get ahead? This is not necessarily a good reason unless there is a genuine desire to go into or advance in a specific field. Seeking a graduate degree to avoid going on the job market or to avoid paying undergraduate loans is not advisable and can have negative consequences later on.
A graduate degree can be useful under the right circumstances. Under the wrong circumstances, it can be very much the opposite. Make an informed decision before jumping in.
