How Does Grad School Work? Everything You Need To Know

Graduate school combines rigorous coursework and in-depth research to help students gain specialized knowledge and technical skills in their chosen field to help them advance professionally and academically.

Advanced degrees range from master's to doctoral and cover various disciplines. Understanding the types of degrees and the steps for enrollment can help grad students choose the right program.

What Is Grad School?

Grad school is an advanced education that provides students with an opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of a specialized discipline and earn a degree that showcases their knowledge and skills. Graduate coursework that makes up master's and doctoral degrees combines research and practical experience to prepare students for advancing in their careers.

What Is a Master's Degree?

A master's degree enhances your skills and provides you with a deeper understanding of your area of professional focus to provide you with advanced career opportunities and higher pay. Master's programs take about two years to complete, or less with accelerated programs, due to the extensive coursework and capstone project or thesis that generally serve as completion requirements.

Steps for Enrolling in Graduate School

Graduate students can follow these steps to choose and enroll in an accredited master's, doctorate, or PhD program.

Determine What Graduate Program You Would Like To Study

The first step to enrolling in grad school is getting a clear view of your academic and professional goals. Consider your interests, skills, and what kind of career you want to apply them to.

Make Sure You Are Eligible

Graduate programs have GPA, test scores, and undergraduate degree requirements to attend. Talking with one of the school's academic advisors can help you prepare to apply and ensure you will meet the requirements.

Take the GRE or GMAT Exam

Taking standardized tests like the GRE and GMAT is a common requirement for grad school. Studying and completing test prep materials can help you feel more prepared and confident

GRE Exam

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a general, standardized test that covers analytical writing, and verbal and quantitative reasoning to evaluate your readiness for graduate-level academic work.

GMAT Exam

The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) is an exam for graduate business programs. It evaluates an applicant's potential for success by assessing their skills in analytical writing and quantitative, verbal, and integrated reasoning.

Apply for Graduate School

Applying for graduate school requires you to submit materials that highlight your prior education and professional experience. This can include letters of recommendation, test scores like the GRE and GMAT, bachelor's degree and high school transcripts, and a resume with a personal statement.

Complete a Graduate School Interview

A graduate school interview is your opportunity to highlight your strengths and show why you are a great candidate for the program. They may ask about your undergrad classes, academic achievements, and career aspirations that have led you to apply to grad schools.

Enroll in Graduate School Courses

Academic advisors, who work with first-year students, can help you plan out your course of study and enroll in graduate school courses. Once enrolled you can begin utilizing campus resources and joining peer study groups to help you stay organized and prepared when you start your program.

Is Grad School Worth It? Benefits of Going To Grad School

Graduate studies can benefit your career by equipping you with the knowledge and skills to achieve higher positions and put you at an advantage professionally.

Benefits include:

• gain an in-depth understanding of your field
• advance in your career
• earn a higher salary
• contribute to your industry with research
• learn critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• collaborate and network with peers and faculty members

Types of Graduate Degrees

Masters Degrees

Master's degrees, which are usually completed in 2 years or less, allow you to access more career opportunities with higher pay and advance in your specific field. Different types cover numerous subjects to deepen your understanding of your field with comprehensive coursework and a final project, such as a capstone or thesis.

Master of Science

Master of Science (MS) degrees focus on advancing your technical skills and knowledge in different scientific and technical fields like:

• computer science
• engineering
• nursing

MS programs involve extensive coursework and industry research.

Master of Arts

Master of Arts degrees covers liberal arts and social science fields with comprehensive coursework in your chosen field of:

• psychology
• sociology
• history
• numerous other humanity-based fields

Professional Master's Degrees

Professional master's degrees like a Master of Business Administration (MBA), prepare graduates to advance into specific roles in the industry. These degree programs use practical projects and case studies to emphasize the student's understanding.

Doctoral Degrees

Doctoral degrees are the highest level of academic programs and prepare graduate students for advanced professional roles.

Doctor of Philosophy

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is available in numerous disciplines and prepares graduates for specialized professional roles. PhD students focus on a specific field of study, conducting research that concludes with a dissertation to contribute new knowledge to their field.

Doctor of Education

The Doctor of Education (EdD) is an advanced degree for education professionals that focuses on improving the field by applying research to educational systems, preparing them for leadership positions.

Doctor of Business Administration

The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree focuses on business and advanced management theories and how they can be applied to advanced positions in the business industry.

Doctor of Medicine

The Doctor of Medicine (MD) is a degree for physicians of various specialties that focuses on diagnosis, treatment, and patient care through medical coursework and clinical training.

Juris Doctor

A Juris Doctor (JD) is a law degree that covers legal practices and knowledge to prepare students for passing the bar exam to become attorneys and judges.

How To Choose the Right Graduate School Program

Choosing the right program is necessary for aligning your graduate education with your career goals and personal interests.

Examine Your Skillset and Passions

Evaluating your strengths and skills can help you decide if a program will complement your abilities and passions, which is important for your motivation and academic success.

Determine What Your Career Goals Are

Defining your career goals ensures that you choose a program that aligns with your professional objectives and career plans.

Consider Your Financial Situation

Programs range in tuition prices depending on the type of school. Considering your financial situation helps you plan and prepare to pay for grad school.

Some ways to pay for grad school are:

• student financial aid
• scholarships
• federal grants
• employee tuition reimbursement
• fellowships
• working part-time or full-time

FAQs About Graduate School

The process of enrolling in graduate school can be complex and often confusing. Here are some answers to questions about what to expect in master's and doctoral programs.

How Hard Is Graduate School?

Graduate school is harder and more challenging academically than an undergraduate program. The coursework is more advanced with extensive research and rigorous coursework.

Is Graduate School Better Than Undergraduate School?

Graduate school is better because it gives students specialized knowledge and helps them gain skills to advance in their careers and reach higher-level opportunities.

Does Work Experience Make Up for a Low GPA on My Graduate School Application?

Relevant work experience that demonstrates your skills and current knowledge of your field can sometimes compensate for a low GPA.

What Are the Different Types of Graduate Degrees?

As explained in the sections above, master's degrees include MS, MA, MBA, and others. Doctoral degrees include PhDs and doctors of medicine, education, business, and law.

How Should I Prepare for a Graduate School Interview?

Practicing common interview questions and familiarizing yourself with the program can help you prepare to discuss your academic and professional experiences and goals.