Monday, December 9, 2013

Grad School Thoughts

Should I stay in school? Should I get another degree? What will this cost me? my family?Should I work for a while? Do I need to have related experience before I apply to a graduate program? 

All of these are excellent and appropriate questions for students (and alums) considering graduate school. If you are an MSU student or alum, your career counselor can help you consider your options.  

Reasons to go to graduate school
    Advance your career.
     Many careers require at least an MA or more even for entry level positions. A graduate degree can open up a wider array of opportunities in such fields as psychology, social work, healthcare.
    Greater earning power
     This is a common reason why people go to grad school. However, it should not be the only reason, since getting a grad degree is a very serious commitment.
    Because you want to.
     To learn, to think critically, to accept the academic challenge. 
    Realization of interest.
     Not everyone realizes during undergraduate school what interests them and graduate work can give you a new beginning, as graduate work does not always need to be connected to your undergraduate studies. For instance, your BA might be in English, but you decide you are interested in an MA in counseling. Many grad programs prefer students to have a varied (and unrelated) background.
    Career change.
     If your current career is unrewarding, an advanced degree can help you to transition to another career.
    Upgrade your education.
     Your knowledge of your field may be outdated.
    Work on advanced projects.
     The computer scientists who delved early into computer graphics set the standards for much of the CGI technology used in movies today.
    Access to advanced equipment and tools.
     In a similar vein, entering a graduate program could mean having access to advanced equipment on campus -- such as the astronomy lab, supercomputers, rare books, and even great minds.
    Higher potential for future promotion.
     While obtaining a graduate degree does not necessarily always lead to a high-paying job right away, it can open up opportunities for future promotions.
    Not being stuck behind a desk.
     If you have the necessary education to qualify for a high-ranking position in your chosen industry, it means that you often have the option of not sitting behind a desk all day.
    Employer incentives.
     Some large corporations have funds set aside that will pay partial or full fees for qualified employees.
    Free tuition.
     In some cases, grad schools might not only waive your tuition but also give you a stipend for living expenses, in return for taking on the work of a teaching assistant or research assistant.
For more information on graduate school, visit our website
* (Adapted from http://www.petersons.com/graduate-schools/guide-students-graduate-school.aspx.)

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