What is a Master’s Degree?
- The Master of Arts is the typical Master’s graduate program for humanities and social science disciplines.
- The Master of Science is the typical Master’s graduate program for scientific and quantitative disciplines.
Learning about Graduate School
Find out if graduate school is right for you.
Have you considered more school after college?
Maybe you love learning, conducting research, or want to develop a specialty, a graduate program may be what you are looking for!
Keep Reading to Learn:
- The purpose of graduate school
- The diverse options of pursuing a graduate degree
What is graduate school?
Graduate degree programs offer advanced training (beyond a bachelor’s degree) in a specific academic discipline or profession.
- Focused studies in a specific discipline
- Work experience via internships, teaching, or research
- Production of original research
How long does graduate school take?
- 1-3 years for Master’s Degrees
- 3-5 years for Professional Degrees (ex. Juries Doctor, Doctor of Physical Therapy)
- 5-8 years for a PhD
Types of Graduate Degrees
What is a PhD?
- PhD stands for Doctor of Philosophy.
- The Doctor of Philosophy prepares students to do academic work in their discipline—research and teaching—and for positions at universities and research institutions.
Graduate vs. Professional School
A graduate degree provides advanced training in an academic discipline. A professional degree provides advanced training for a specific profession.
Next Steps
- Make time to take inventory of your career goals and aspirations. Do your career goals require further education? Do you want to continue learning and growing through an academic program?
- Connect with the Career Development Center to inquire further
- Speak with faculty advisor or mentor to receive more guidance