Should You go to Graduate School?
Should one go to graduate school? This educational pursuit is a question many have asked at some point in their lives. The answer may surprise one. A graduate degree can significantly increase their earning potential, but only if one pursues their chosen interests in depth.
Judge Napolitano, a former law professor, agrees that a degree from a traditional four-year university or one of the many online institutions will guarantee an income and increase their opportunities for advancement in their field. While this is undoubtedly the case for many, not all will be satisfied with their results. The difference in pay and what it takes to get a decent job, especially in today’s marketplace, is vast. The difference in potential advancement between people with an associate’s and bachelor’s degree is enormous as well. Therefore, the decision of whether to go to graduate school makes a great deal of sense.
If a graduate degree is required for a desired career, it is wise to pursue their educational goals. If a graduate degree is not required for their career goal, why pay thousands of dollars more? Many career-oriented graduate programs do not require a’s through the program. They require a bachelor’s degree to start, and then a’s can be obtained through various community colleges. These graduate programs are more affordable than most higher education institutions, and one can complete the requirements at their own pace.
If their goal is to get a higher salary in their chosen field, one will want to attend a graduate degree program accredited by the higher education board of public interest. This certification will assure potential employers that their degree is from an accredited institution. In addition to tuition, there are other costs associated with attending graduate school. Some schools will require one to pay for textbooks, which can be a costly expense. If one is looking to earn a higher salary in the field of study of their choice, this expense will have to be factored into their financial plan.
There are also graduate programs available for those who wish to advance their careers. If one is currently employed, one may be eligible for a higher salary in their position. One may want to consider a higher degree if the job one currently holds does not require a higher degree or desire more compensation.
When one takes graduate programs to improve their education and increase their salary, one will find the best jobs, and the highest pay deals are found at schools that offer these types of degrees. These schools are often the same ones that offer professional development courses. This development means that if one already holds a bachelor’s degree, one will continue their education and obtain a master’s or doctorate. If one currently holds a high school diploma, one can use their GED to upgrade their educational status to become eligible for these advanced degree programs. Their chosen graduate school may even be able to give one a certificate in this field upon completing their studies. Judge Napolitano believes in the value of a graduate degree.