Search Graduate Schools & Programs

Why Attend Graduate School?

Making the decision to go to graduate school is no easy task. In the coming weeks and months you will have to ask yourself a lot of questions, questions like: "Do I want to earn a master's degree or PhD?" "What field of study interests me most?" "What course of study will help me reach my long term career goals?" "How can I pay for this?" Since 1996 our team has been working to compile the most comprehensive listing of graduate programs available listing over 67,000 options, across master's degree programs, PhD programs, and certificate programs.

You can use our degree finder to search for programs by subject area, program format, and location.  When you find programs you are interested in select the "request info" button next to the listing, fill out our simple form and your information will be sent to admissions counselors at that school. Then those counselors will contact you with more information about their program.

If you're interested in learning more about what it means to be a graduate student, or you are interested in finding out more about financing options, check out our resources section and blog. We have enlisted the services of several subject matter experts to help us bring you information and tips about the grad school application process, and how to survive and thrive once you enroll in a graduate program.

Reason #1 to Attend Graduate School: Career Advancement

Some professions do not require graduate degrees, but it may be helpful career advancement. After a few years working in various business fields, it is common for people to pursue a Masters of Business Administration. Some people may choose to specialize in certain areas of the business world and pursue a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) or a Master of Taxation (MTax), just to name a few. In education, a teacher cannot become an administrator without earning a Supervisors Certificate or a Masters in Educational Leadership¹.

Reason #2 to Attend Graduate School: Potential Salary Increase

While advancing in a career could sometimes lead to higher pay, the attainment of a graduate degree also has the potential to increase a person’s earning potential in certain fields². For example, in the education field, the level of schooling one obtains could determine the pay scale they are on in combination with the amount of years one has worked³. If you are considering going to graduate school for this reason, be very careful to weigh the costs of education (including the loss of earnings if you go to school full time) with your potential salary after graduation. In particular, research the career center of the program you are interested in, to get a feel for the job opportunities available.

Having a Graduate Degree PAYS!

Reason #3 to Attend Graduate School: Requirement for Employment

For some careers, in order to even be considered for employment, an applicant must hold a graduate degree in their respective area. This is not only applicable for doctors and lawyers, but for careers such as Physical Therapists, School Counselors, Psychologists, Occupational Therapists, and Social Workers⁴.

Reason #4 to Attend Graduate School: Career Change

Despite an individual's level of educational attainment, very few people stay in the same career throughout their entire work life. Reasons for career changes vary from being laid off, burn out, or change of interest. However when the time comes to look for a new job, one's past experience may not be relevant enough to switch careers without training.

Fortunately, most graduate degree programs do not require an applicant to have majored in the same content area, which makes it easier for someone to pursue a graduate degree in a new field as long as they at least hold a bachelor's degree. Some do however have prerequisites that a student must take before matriculating. For example, no major is required for medical school, but an applicant might need to complete prerequisite math and science courses in order to have the foundation to handle the rigors of a medical program.