what is graduate level coursework

Graduate Certificate vs. Master’s Degree: What’s the Difference?

Learn the similarities and differences between these two postgraduate academic credentials.

Mary Sharp Emerson

Adding a postgraduate credential like a master’s degree or a graduate certificate to your resume can be a great way to advance your career. It might even be a stepping stone on the pathway to an exciting career change. 

Knowing which credential to choose, however, can be challenging.

A master’s degree and a graduate certificate can both be valuable. They have many similarities. But they are not interchangeable. 

Understanding the differences between them before you go back to school can help ensure that you choose the right one.

What is a Master’s Degree?

A master’s degree is an academic postgraduate credential designed to help you build broad, foundational expertise in a specific field or discipline. Completing a master’s usually (although not always) requires several years of coursework and a thesis or capstone project.

Master’s degrees are offered by a university or other accredited academic institution. To earn your master’s degree, you’ll have to successfully complete a set number of credit hours. 

Most master’s degree programs require 10-12 courses. To earn many of the master’s degrees at Harvard Extension School, for example, you’ll have to earn a B or higher in 12 courses (48 credits). However, each master’s degree program will define its requirements slightly differently. 

Depending on the specific program, you will likely have to complete several required courses. You’ll also have the option to tailor your program by choosing electives in areas of special interest to you.

You may also be required to complete a research or capstone project or a thesis. This project will allow you to customize your program even more, as well as further demonstrate expertise in a specialized area. 

Some master’s degree programs require a full-time, on-campus commitment. Many master’s degree programs today, however, can be completed part time (often partially or fully online). Although this takes longer than attending full time, you can continue to work while earning your degree.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a master’s degree program .

Explore master’s degree programs at Harvard Extension School.

What is a Graduate Certificate?

Similar to a master’s degree, a graduate certificate is a credit-based academic credential offered by a university. However, a graduate certificate is more narrowly focused on a specialized field than a master’s degree.

Graduate certificates are a significantly smaller investment in time and money than a master’s. They usually require completion of between three and five graduate-level courses. Most graduate certificates at Harvard Extension require four courses, for example.

You can earn a graduate certificate as a stand-alone credential. Although a graduate certificate is not an academic degree, you may be able to stack your certificate coursework toward a master’s degree.

You can find graduate certificates in a wide range of fields. Technical certificate topics include cybersecurity and data science , for instance. 

If you’re in management, you may want to supplement your corporate knowledge with a certificate in nonprofit or strategic management . Or you may want to improve your leadership skills with a graduate certificate in social justice or equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging . 

Most graduate certificates can be completed part time. Many offer a variety of class formats, including asynchronous or synchronous online courses and in-person courses. 

Explore Graduate Certificates at Harvard Extension School.

How is a graduate certificate different from a professional certification?

A graduate certificate is not the same as a professional or industry certification.

A professional certification is a nonacademic credential awarded by a professional or industry organization. Earning a professional certification usually requires passing a test or exam demonstrating knowledge of a set of skills or a specific tool. You may need to take a class or complete coursework to pass the exam. 

For example, to earn a Project Management Graduate Certificate at Harvard Extension School, you have to earn at least a B in four graduate-level courses in management, leadership, and strategy. To earn a Project Management Professional Certification , offered by the PMI Institute, you have to meet the PMI Institute qualification requirements and pass the PMP exam. 

Graduate Certificate vs. Master’s: What Are the Key Differences?

Understanding the key differences between a graduate certificate and a master’s degree is the first step in choosing between these two credentials. 

Here are some points of comparison that may help guide your decision-making process:

• Required number of courses: Graduate certificates usually require significantly fewer courses than a master’s degree. At Harvard Extension School, for instance, most graduate certificates require four courses. Most master’s programs require 10 to 12 courses. 
• Degree of specialization : A master’s degree is designed to give you broad and deep knowledge in a field. A graduate certificate is more narrowly focused; you can build specialized skills in an area. For example, you could earn a master’s degree in sustainability and a graduate certificate in sustainable food systems. 
• Level of commitment : Graduate certificates are designed with the working professional in mind. Most certificates can be completed online, with flexible live or on-demand class offerings. Master’s degree programs vary significantly in their flexibility and the extent to which they tailor to working professionals. Some master’s degrees, for example, may be fully in person or may require that a percentage of your classes be taken on campus.
• Cost and financial aid : Graduate certificates cost less to complete than master’s degree programs because you are required to complete fewer credits. However, once you are enrolled in a master’s degree program, you may be eligible for federal and state student loans and grants. Students working toward a certificate are not eligible for student loans, although private loans and employer tuition assistance may still be an option. 
• Admissions process : Starting a certificate may have fewer admissions requirements than enrolling in a master’s degree program. You may be able to complete a certificate simply by taking (and passing) the appropriate classes. The admissions process for a master’s degree program varies greatly. Some master’s degree programs, for example, require a formal application process. To begin the admissions process at Harvard Extension School, on the other hand, you first successfully complete a set number of courses in the master’s degree course of study. 

Graduate Certificate vs. Master’s: Which is Best for Me?

When it comes to choosing a graduate certificate or master’s degree, there’s no right or wrong choice. 

Both credentials—when earned from a reputable, accredited university—demonstrate advanced skills and knowledge in your field. And they also demonstrate your ability and commitment to lifelong learning, a trait highly valued by many employers.

Your choice will depend on the skills you hope to gain, your unique career goals, and the level of commitment—both in time and in money—you can make to a graduate program.

Benefits of a Graduate Certificate

A graduate certificate may be most valuable for individuals who want to fill a gap in your skillset or deepen your understanding of a topic area that relates to your work. A graduate certificate might also be best for you if you find yourself unable to commit to the time or cost that it would take to complete a master’s program. Graduate certificates are a great option for students seeking to continue their education while working full time.

Benefits of a Master’s Degree

A master’s degree demonstrates a broader, more advanced breadth of knowledge across a particular field. The knowledge and skills you gain from a master’s program may be transferable across multiple career paths. While it may take longer and cost more to earn your master’s degree, the long-term benefits should make the hard work and commitment worth it.

Stacking Your Credentials

In some cases, you may find you don’t have to choose. At Harvard Extension School, for instance, the courses you take to earn a certificate may also apply to a master’s degree program. Many graduate students complete one or more graduate certificates while completing a master’s degree.

Going back to school is a big decision — one that can have a critical impact on your career. The good news is that there are many options and opportunities for continuing your education. Whether you choose a graduate certificate or a master’s, both can be an excellent investment in your future.

Ready to get started? Find the program that’s right for you.

Browse all graduate programs at Harvard Extension School.

About the Author

Digital Content Producer

Emerson is a Digital Content Producer at Harvard DCE. She is a graduate of Brandeis University and Yale University and started her career as an international affairs analyst. She is an avid triathlete and has completed three Ironman triathlons, as well as the Boston Marathon.

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Your Guide to Master's Programs

Learn more about the requirements, cost, and coursework requirements for different postgraduate degrees, as well as the most popular master’s degree programs to consider..

A master’s program is the course of study you enroll in when working on your master’s degree—the graduate degree you can typically pursue after first earning your bachelor’s . Obtaining a master’s degree offers professional, personal, and academic benefits, and can be a lucrative step in terms of your education and career goals. There are a variety of graduate degree programs available from colleges and universities throughout the United States.

In this article, we’ll go over the degrees associated with different master's programs, the entry requirements for applying to a master’s, and how to determine the best program for you. 

Types of master’s degrees

You have numerous options when it comes to earning your master’s degree, and the type you earn will depend on what you want to study. For instance, the Master of Arts (MA) and the Master of Science (MS) are two common types of master’s that house an array of majors in the humanities, arts, social sciences, and natural sciences. 

However, if you’re interested in business, library science, health, or a more specialized area of study, you will earn a more specific master’s degree, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Public Health (MPH) . The most frequently earned master's degrees in the US are in business, education, and health professions, according to the National Center for Education Statistics [ 1 ]. 

Let’s look more closely at some of the master’s degrees you can earn and the common subjects or concentrations you can study: 

Master of Arts (MA): English, history, international relations, political science, geography, art, and foreign languages, such as Spanish, Mandarin, and French

Master of Science (MS): Computer science, data science, biology, chemistry, economics, marketing, statistics 

Master of Fine Arts (MFA) : Visual arts, performing arts, filmmaking, design, creative writing, fashion 

Master of Business Administration (MBA) : Management, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, accounting 

Master of Engineering (MEng): Chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, aerospace engineering, biomechanics 

Master of Education (MEd): Special education, education leadership, early childhood education, literacy and learning, technology and learning

Master of Architecture (MArch): Building design, interior design, urban design 

Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS): Library and information services, information technology, archival studies, public library studies, school library studies

Master of Health Care Administration (MHA) : Operations management, health care data analytics, education, health policy 

Master of Public Health (MPH) : Biostatistics and informatics, community health, disaster management and emergency preparedness, environmental health science, epidemiology, global health, maternal and child health 

Master of Social Work (MSW): Clinical work, health, mental health, community administration, children and families  

Master of Public Administration (MPA): Ethical leadership, nonprofit management, public management

Learn more: MBA vs MS: Choosing Which Is Better for You

Master’s program factors: Costs and time 

Master’s program costs vary depending on school, program, residency status, and whether you attend an in-person program or choose to earn your degree online . 

The average cost of a master's degree is $66,340, according to the Education Data Initiative [ 2 ]. Attending a public institution may lower those costs. Students at a public college or university pay an average total cost of $54,500, whereas students at a private college or university pay an average total cost of $81,000. Learning online can also be a more affordable option. 

Master’s programs typically provide information about the average price of tuition and fees, alongside estimates about housing, materials, and other costs associated with earning your degree. Take time to research each program you’re interested in attending and compare costs. 

Average program length 

Earning a master's degree generally takes between one and three years , depending on what you want to study. For example, a standard MBA program takes two years , while an MFA typically takes three years. There are certain options, like accelerated master’s or dual degrees that may speed up your time to completion. 

If you’re interested in earning your degree while you continue working, you may benefit from an online master’s program, which is typically designed to be asynchronous and self-paced, so you can schedule your learning to best suit your needs. 

Learn more: 10 Surprising Benefits of Online Learning

Applying to a master's degree program

The requirements for entry into a master’s program vary from school to school, but most will require that you’ve earned your bachelor’s degree before embarking on an advanced course of study. Here are some other common application requirements: 

Transcripts

Entrance exam, such as GRE or GMAT  

Letters of recommendation

Personal statement

Writing sample 

CV or resume

Graduate entrance exams

There are several entrance exams for graduate and professional degree programs, but the two most common for master’s degree programs are the GRE and the GMAT. Let’s take a look at the difference. 

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test that measures your knowledge of three general areas: analytical writing, verbal reasoning, and quantitative reasoning. You may also have the option of taking the GRE subject test in one of four areas, including chemistry, mathematics, physics, and psychology. 

The Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) is a standardized test for entry into a graduate business program that measures your knowledge in four areas: analytical writing, integrated reasoning, verbal, and quantitative.  

Learn more: GMAT or GRE: Which Should I Take?

Choosing the best master’s program for you

The master’s program that’s best for you is the one that helps you meet your goals, whatever they may be. Spend time thinking about why you want to earn your master’s in the first place and what you’d like to do with the degree. Those two factors can help narrow your options. Other possibilities include: 

Building on your bachelor’s 

You don’t have to earn your master’s degree in the same subject, or a similar subject, as your bachelor’s degree, but if you enjoyed your college major then it may make sense to advance your knowledge in that subject area. 

Exploring something new 

In the time since you’ve graduated with your bachelor’s, perhaps you’ve developed an interest in a new area—or you’re curious about exploring something unrelated to your undergraduate degree. In that case, you can gain the necessary subject knowledge and skills through a master’s program.  

Career goals

Whether you want to advance your knowledge through an MA or MS, or a specialized master’s degree like an MBA, it may make sense to think about your career goals and how a master’s may help you achieve them. While not every career path requires a graduate degree, earning one can show employers your advanced subject knowledge and help you qualify for more senior roles. Learn more about what you can do with a master’s degree and the average salaries they command .

Getting started

Explore online master's degrees from leading universities on Coursera. Earn your MBA, MPH, MS in Computer Science, and much more. There are an array of options often designed to be more flexible and self-paced than an in-person master’s degree program, while still being taught by the same faculty.   

Related articles

What Is a Master’s in Biology 

What Is a Master’s in Chemistry (and What Can I Do With One)?

What Can You Do With a Master of Arts Degree?

The Master of Science (MS) Degree: A Guide

Master of Social Work (MSW) Degree: A Guide

What Can You Do with a Master’s in Public Health (MPH)?

Article sources 

1. National Center for Education Statistics. " Graduate Degree Fields , https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/ctb." Accessed May 9, 2022.

2. Education Data Initiative. " Average Cost of a Master's Degree , educationdata.org/average-cost-of-a-masters-degree." Accessed May 9, 2022.

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This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, what's the difference between undergraduate and graduate-level degrees.

Hi everyone! I've seen people mentioning undergraduate and graduate level degrees, and I'm not sure about what separates the two. Can someone please explain the differences and what each entails? Also, what are some common graduate degree programs?

Hi there! Undergraduate and graduate-level degrees differ in terms of their academic focus, structure, and the stage of education at which they are pursued.

Undergraduate degrees, also referred to as bachelor's degrees, are typically the first level of higher education one pursues after completing high school. These degrees usually require four years of study and involve taking courses in general education as well as in a specific major. Majors can be in a variety of fields like economics, biology, psychology, history, or engineering, among others. Undergraduate education aims to provide you with broad knowledge in your chosen field and to serve as the foundation for your career or for further studies.

Graduate-level degrees, on the other hand, are pursued after completing an undergraduate degree. They are advanced academic programs that offer specialized knowledge in a specific field. Graduate degrees are usually divided into two categories: master's degrees and doctoral degrees.

Master's degrees can take between one and three years to complete, depending on the program and your enrollment status (full-time or part-time). They involve coursework, research, and occasionally internships or practicum experiences. Some common master's degree programs include Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Science (MS), Master of Arts (MA), and Master of Fine Arts (MFA).

Doctoral degrees, such as Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or professional doctorates like Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Juris Doctor (JD), typically require several years of study beyond the master's level. Ph.D. programs usually involve a combination of coursework, research, teaching, and the completion of a dissertation, which is an extensive research project on a specialized topic within your field. MD and JD programs are professional degrees that specifically focus on medical and legal practice, respectively.

In summary, undergraduate degrees are the first level of higher education pursued after high school, whereas graduate-level degrees are advanced academic programs that offer specialized knowledge in a field. Graduate degrees can be further classified into master's programs, which are generally shorter and more focused on coursework, and doctoral programs, which require substantial research and the completion of a dissertation or involve professional practice.

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The Many Ways Grad School Differs From College

Be prepared for a tougher workload and more independence as a graduate student.

How Grad School Differs From College

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Graduate students usually rely less heavily on textbooks than undergrads, and some of their courses don't include textbooks at all, since the norm is for them to analyze complicated original source materials themselves rather than depending on explanations from others.

Unlike undergraduates, who often take introductory courses in a range of subjects before committing to a major, graduate students typically focus on a particular area of study, such as chemistry or philosophy, from the get-go.

"A graduate degree is more specialized than an undergraduate degree, and it is typically more directly tied to one or several career paths," says Julia Kent, a vice president at the Council of Graduate Schools, an organization that represents universities that grant master's and doctoral degrees.

The most important distinction between college and graduate school, according to higher education experts, is that they are designed with different missions in mind.

The Purpose of College vs. Graduate Studies

A graduate degree is meant to bolster someone's expertise within a field in which they have already demonstrated significant potential. That differs from a college education, which usually includes general education classes in fields like biology and history. A primary goal of a college education is to provide students with "a broad understanding of human civilization," says Robert C. Bird, a professor of business law at the University of Connecticut's business school .

Jana Hunzicker, associate dean for academic affairs at Bradley University's college of education and health sciences in Illinois, notes that a college degree is often the baseline credential required for entry-level positions.

"Most students who pursue a master's degree have a fairly clear idea of what they want to do next in their career," she wrote in an email. And "by the time a student seeks a doctoral degree, he or she has likely reached a point of feeling that they have learned or done as much as they can do without seeking further expert instruction."

Here are several other key differences between college and grad school that experts say prospective grad students should keep in mind.

The Application Process

Personal statements for graduate applications are very different than the ones in college applications, Kent says. "You are expected to explain how completing the degree is tied to your career goals, whereas at the undergraduate level, the focus is often less academic and career-oriented."

Ph.D. programs typically like to see specific information about candidates' research interests and might even wish to hear about particular faculty members the candidates would like to work with. These programs also value research experience, Kent says. Professionally oriented programs, such as those in business and clinical health care fields, often prioritize work experience.

Experts on applied doctoral programs, which are designed to train people for leadership within a specific domain such as education, say that these programs favor students who understand conditions for frontline workers within their field.

The Amount of Personal Awareness and Initiative Required

In graduate school, experts agree, professors expect students to be self-directed and goal-oriented.

If you enroll in grad school, faculty will assume you possess "self-knowledge about what it is that you want to accomplish," says Kent.

Bernadine Mavhungu Jeranyama, an online MBA student at Clark University in Massachusetts, says "intentionality" was one key distinction between her experiences in college and grad school.

"Going to college and graduating with a bachelor’s degree was an expected next step after high school, and a ticket to entry into the working world," she wrote in an email. "The decision to enroll in graduate education came from myself with no outside influence, and I feel more committed to it."

After years in the workforce, Jeranyama realized that she wanted to become an executive who focuses on health equity issues, and she chose a grad degree that aligns with her ambitions.

The Speed, Depth and Difficulty of Courses

Though undergraduate classes can be challenging, in most cases, graduate classes are harder, according to experts.

"Graduate courses tend to cover more material in a shorter period of time," Bird says.

Bird notes that he teaches law classes very differently at the undergraduate vs. the graduate level. In his college classes, he is more likely to provide summaries of court cases, whereas in more advanced courses, he generally asks students to examine legal rulings.

Graduate students usually rely less heavily on textbooks than undergrads, and some of their courses don't include textbooks at all, since the norm is for them to analyze complicated original source materials themselves rather than depending on explanations from others, Bird says.

The Social Environment

Grad students usually have less free time than college students because of the demanding nature of their courses. That is especially true if they are working professionals or parents, experts say.

"In graduate school, there's less time for socializing, and there's less time for going out," Bird says, adding that during law school he lived right near a sports stadium but rarely could find time to see a game there. "You have to focus on your work."

Financial Considerations

Many grad programs require students to pay tuition and fees similar to those at the college level. But Ph.D. students frequently receive funding from whatever university they attend and may receive an annual stipend. "That is very different than a college education where you're paying four years of tuition and having to support yourself as well," Kent says.

Certain short grad programs – such as those that last only a single academic year – require minimal time out of the workforce. Though subsidies for grad school are less plentiful than college scholarships, such awards are available and can be used to reduce student loans.

The Emphasis on Applying Knowledge

According to Kent, hands-on training is common in graduate programs, since students often participate in labs or supervised practicums. And Ph.D. students frequently have some undergraduate teaching responsibilities. "You're getting practice doing the work that you will possibly do in your chosen career and having an opportunity to get feedback from a professor and mentor on that work," she says.

Grad students are expected to use the information they learn in a clever way, not just show they know the facts, says Bird. "It's higher-level thinking that you're expected to do."

Searching for a grad school? Get our  complete rankings of Best Graduate Schools.

30 Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs

Tags: education , students , graduate schools , colleges

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Principles and Characteristics of Graduate Education

Graduate education.

Graduate education distinguishes itself by advanced systematic study and experience in depth—a depth in understanding, knowledge, scholarly competence, inquiry, and discovery.  Graduates are equipped to contribute to their disciplines, to teach and transmit knowledge within their disciplines, to conduct research and produce creative works, to apply their learning in the everyday world, and ultimately to extend service to their disciplines and to humanity.  

Although diversity in focus, methodology, and implementation is expected across the spectrum of graduate programs at BYU, strong programs are characterized by selective admission of highly qualified students, graduate faculty committed to excellence, and rigorous programs of study conducted in a context of faith.  A few fundamental principles characterize all strong graduate programs.  These principles emerge from and complement the Mission and Aims of a BYU Education .  These principles are listed below followed by some characteristics that are required to realize these principles.

Principles of Graduate Education

Mastery of the subject matter.   Graduate education facilitates mastery over the content and skills of the discipline at a level appropriate to the degree sought.

Critical thinking.  Graduate education develops and refines critical thinking skills including a thorough knowledge of the assumptions of the discipline and an understanding of viable alternative assumptions.

Theoretical understanding.  Graduate education provides an understanding of the theoretical bases of the field of study.  It grounds application and performance in theory.

Proficiency in research and/or creative activities.   Graduate education develops proficiencies that advance the knowledge and activities of the discipline.  These proficiencies include good writing skills as well as the ability to present original insights and creative expressions.

Spiritual discernment and moral integrity.   Graduate education facilitates the growth of integrity and wisdom and the integration of faith into the pursuit of knowledge within the discipline.

Service orientation.  Graduate education instills responsibility to return the special benefits of graduate training to the larger community.

Wide representation of perspectives.  Graduate education presents an intellectually and culturally rich encounter with the discipline.  Study and inquiry are conducted in a context sensitive to ethnic and cultural diversity. 

Characteristics of Strong Graduate Programs

I.         Clear Definition of Purpose

• Only graduate degrees essential to the department’s mission and important to the larger mission of the university are offered by the department.
• The department has determined and clearly stated the aims for the future of its graduate program(s).   It has a plan for constant improvement and is pursuing it vigorously.
• The department has determined and clearly stated the focus and purpose of its graduate program(s).   It does not necessarily attempt to offer degrees or emphases in all areas of its discipline.   Students admitted pursue coursework, research, and degrees only in areas in which faculty are producing and publishing scholarly work and are well qualified to teach and direct research.
• The department regularly evaluates its graduate programs, faculty, facilities, and library holdings, identifying weak areas that need strengthening and determining if any programs or emphases should be dropped or added.
• The department does not see a graduate degree as simply an accumulation of credits.   Faculty members understand that graduate work at a university is inherently involved in the discovery of new knowledge, and they seek to understand and propound the theoretical principles that lie behind what can be observed and tested.  
• Graduate education extends beyond the acquisition of practical skills and endeavors to encompass the practical within the theoretical.   The department makes a concerted effort to educate graduate students to extend their understanding using both tools and theory.

II.        Qualified Graduate Faculty

Effective mentoring

• The department and college apply appropriate criteria for identifying graduate faculty.   There are sufficient numbers of well-prepared, full-time graduate faculty members in the department’s areas of specialty to support strong graduate work in those areas.   All department faculty members support the graduate programs of the department.
• Department faculty members keep current in their fields and continually update course content and teaching methods to engage students and immerse them in the discipline.
• Faculty members strengthen students spiritually by integrating spirituality into formal teaching, by teaching the ethics of the discipline, and by exemplifying integrity and devotion.

Scholarly productivity

• Graduate faculty members are active scholars or artist-scholars who do significant research and regularly publish in national or international refereed journals and presses, or who present or perform their artistic work for wide and authoritative critical review.   Their books, articles, papers, and creative work make significant contributions to their disciplines.
• Faculty members are involved in scholarly and creative activities in their discipline, participate in regional, national and international conferences, and work with colleagues at other universities and centers of learning.
• In disciplines where the norms of scholarship require external funding, faculty members actively seek funding to support their research programs and to enhance graduate student involvement in research or creative work.
• Faculty members use professional development leaves to extend their knowledge in their disciplines and to invigorate their research.

Dedication to service and citizenship

• Faculty members strive to assure that all activities support the mission of the university, build the Kingdom of God, and bless students, colleagues, and humanity.
• Faculty members contribute to the intellectual climate of the department and the university through service, including conscientious attention to committee assignments and collaboration in research, scholarship, or creative endeavors with colleagues and students.
• Faculty members contribute to the professional community through service such as conference organization and participation and editorship of journals and other forums.   Competing activities, such as paid consultation work, are kept to a minimum, and are engaged in only when such activities advance knowledge and skills in the discipline, strengthen research, and enhance the influence and respect of the university.

III.     High Academic Standards

Well-established admissions standards and practices

• The department has an active recruitment program to attract excellent students from undergraduate and graduate programs at other universities.   It does not rely solely on an applicant pool of its own undergraduates.  
• The department has clearly stated and effectively communicated admissions standards.   These standards are reviewed regularly and revised as needed.   The department sets high expectations and employs several criteria such as the undergraduate GPA, GRE scores, and professional experience in making admissions decisions.   It admits provisionally only if an applicant shows exceptional promise.
• The department admits students only when all or virtually all prerequisite requirements have been met.
• The department is consistent in applying its admission standards, and it is timely in making admissions decisions.   These decisions are made by a faculty admissions committee or by the faculty as a whole.   All graduate faculty members have some input in admissions decisions.
• The department attracts sufficient numbers of qualified applicants to offer fullfledged graduate programs with adequate course offerings and to provide a stimulating graduate culture for students.   Nevertheless, the department admits only as many students as it can effectively guide through a rigorous, carefully advised program.   It considers student-faculty ratios, especially in light of specialties that applicants wish to pursue.

Strong curriculum and rigorous course work

• The curriculum is well designed, relatively stable, and leads to strong preparation of students.   The department offers enough courses to support a full graduate program, and it lists no courses that are “on the books” but rarely taught.   The curriculum is appropriate for the preparation and specialties of the faculty and reflects leadership in the discipline.
• The classroom experience is qualitatively different from that in the undergraduate program.   The department does not double list courses by undergraduate and graduate numbers (such as 400 and 600) and avoids all practices that dilute the classroom experience for graduate students.   When advanced undergraduates register for 500-level courses, they do so with the understanding that the course is taught at a graduate level and that the expectations for them are the same as for graduate students.
• Credits earned through directed readings, independent or off-campus projects, or employment-related projects are kept to a minimum, and where such courses are approved by the department, they are as rigorous and demanding as regular courses.   In such courses, the teacher and student formulate an agreement of requirements and expectations and file that “contract” with the department office. The student receives credit only when the agreement has been fulfilled.
• Courses require extensive writing assignments of substance and consequence that train students to think critically.   Student papers adhere to high standards of composition, and they are carefully criticized and assessed, sometimes by both teacher and other students.
• All courses, even those considered to be applied courses, have a strong theoretical foundation based on current research.   They require investigation beyond classroom experiences and textbooks.   Where possible, they include demanding essay examinations.
• Every graduate course provides a course outline and syllabus in which the teacher’s expectations are clearly stated and the course description is comprehensive and clear.
• Graduate students have opportunities for learning outside the major department.
• The department enriches its graduate curriculum with presentations by visiting lecturers, with colloquia, and with other opportunities for learning outside the regular curriculum.
• Course grades accurately reflect student achievement and are not inflated.

Excellence in dissertations, theses, and projects

• The department offers a strong course in research methodology specific to the discipline.
• The department requires a culminating writing experience of its graduate students, regardless of whether the student is in a traditional or an applied program.   The final paper is usually a research-based dissertation or thesis, but may be a project or report in a master’s program.   All doctoral students prepare formal dissertations.
• Dissertations and theses are on topics of real consequence, and their content makes substantial contributions to some aspect of the discipline.   The contributions of projects are held to standards comparable to those of   dissertations and theses. By their excellence and uniqueness, these research and writing experiences impressively demonstrate the achievements, knowledge, and skills of the students at the time the graduate degree is completed.
• The prospectus is treated as a critical aspect of the student’s research.   It is prepared before intensive research begins and is subjected to broad department review.
• The research design, the preparation of the prospectus, the research itself, and the preparation of the dissertation, thesis, or project are carefully directed by the student’s advisory committee.   Problems in research design or methodology are discovered and corrected at the prospectus stage.
• The dissertation, thesis, or project engages a topic that the faculty adviser is well prepared to direct.
• The dissertation, thesis, or project is well written and   leads to a publishable piece of work.   Students are encouraged to publish their work and are assisted in the effort to find a publisher.   Where appropriate, faculty members and students publish collaboratively.

Well-developed procedures for preparing and conducting comprehensive and oral examinations

• Department comprehensive and oral examinations are demanding and fair.   They require currency in the field, thorough analysis of the questions or problems posed, and synthesis of knowledge in the discipline, all at a level appropriate for the degree to be awarded.   They also require grace and skill in expression.
• The examination questions are carefully conceived and well-written.    Test questions demand a grasp of essentials and the ability to analyze and synthesize.
• The department provides published and well-publicized criteria as to what constitutes acceptable performance on department oral and comprehensive examinations.   The purpose, format, range of content, and nature of examinations are described, and sample questions from past examinations are available for study.
• The department applies consistent and rigorous standards in the evaluation of examinations.   There is a mechanism for providing feedback and a clear policy on the retaking of failed comprehensive examinations.

IV.     Well-defined, Clearly Articulated, and Helpful Procedures

Broadly based college and department governance

• Graduate faculty members participate in all departmental decisions that affect the department’s academic programs, the quality of the degrees offered, and the professional lives of the faculty.
• All faculty members of appropriate status and rank have input in hiring, continuing status, and advancement in rank decisions in the department.   The department conducts a national search for new faculty members and makes hiring, continuing status, and promotion decisions according to a set of established, well-publicized criteria and procedures which are at least as rigorous as university guidelines and expectations.
• New faculty members are mentored in their preparation for continuing status review or advancement in rank nomination.
• Through peer-elected representatives, graduate students have a voice in departmental decisions that affect graduate programs.
• The goals of graduate programs are not based solely on expectations of external accrediting agencies.   Rather, they exceed the quality required by such agencies and thus maintain independence.
• Department programs are created, defined, and influenced by genuine, significant developments within the discipline consistent with available resources rather than by perceived market demands and short-lived trends.
• The department has a written assessment plan and uses it routinely to improve graduate programs.

Effective advisement of students

• Faculty members are conscientious in their advisement of students.   They keep regularly scheduled office hours and have frequent scholarly interaction with students.   They return thesis drafts and other materials promptly so that students experience no unnecessary delays in completion of their programs.
• The department recognizes that a student’s first responsibility is to his or her own academic program.   Care is taken to ensure that other duties, such as teaching undergraduate courses, enhance the graduate education experience and do not impede student’s progress toward a degree.   The number of courses a graduate student teaches is strictly limited.
• The department has a published set (a student handbook) of current policies, requirements, expectations, and procedures that describes with clarity and in detail what graduate students need to know to enter a program and successfully complete a degree in the department.
• University and department deadlines are well publicized.
• The department has formal orientation procedures or seminars to acquaint new students with the expectations and requirements of graduate study in the department and the university.
• Each student is well informed from the beginning, having been assigned a sponsor who assists in the selection of a permanent adviser.   That selection is made by the end of the first semester.
• The department conducts at least annual evaluations, at clearly designated times, of each student’s progress and informs the student of his or her status.   If marginal or unsatisfactory progress is noted, the department   informs the student of action required   to demonstrate satisfactory progress.
• The department has determined an optimum time length for program completion and moves its students through on schedule.
• A high percentage of the students on the department’s rolls are actually on campus pursuing degrees at any given time.
• The department graduates a high percentage of the students it admits.
• The department provides published information about financial aid opportunities for students in its programs.
• Students who have teaching assignments are well trained to perform those assignments ably.
• The department assists graduate students in finding employment or advanced educational opportunities suitable to their preparation and experience after they leave the department.

  Appropriate faculty assignments

• Faculty members who are teaching and advising in the graduate program are given ample opportunity for scholarly work and professional development.
• The department sets reasonable limits on the number of graduate advisees assigned to any one faculty member.  
• Faculty assignments in the graduate program are not performed on an “overload” basis.
• Faculty members who are teaching and advising in the graduate program are teaching neither in night school nor in off-campus programs on an “overload” basis.

Responsible class scheduling

• The department publishes and distributes to graduate students a multi-year schedule of course offerings, enabling students to plan their study.
• Graduate course offerings are sequenced appropriately and offered with sufficient frequency to prevent delays in degree completion.

V.         Adequate Resources

• The department regularly assesses its resources and makes realistic decisions about its graduate program(s) in light of these resources.
• The department provides research support—in the form of equipment, laboratories or studios, staff assistance, and funds (where possible)—for the   research programs of faculty members who teach and advise graduate students.
• The department works closely and continuously with the library to ensure that the collection supports the research and teaching needs of the department.   The department is aware of particularly valuable library resources in its discipline and informs graduate students of those resources.
• The department and its faculty members actively and persistently seek outside funding to support research and graduate students.   Department graduate students receive adequate financial support and early notification of that support.
• The department allows faculty members sufficient time to do superior work in both teaching and research, and to advise and mentor graduate students in a thorough manner.
• Graduate students have adequate space and opportunity for informal discussion and interaction, and those who teach undergraduates have adequate facilities for advising and helping their students with class assignments.   Graduate students also have access to facilities and equipment needed in their graduate research.
• The department encourages faculty members to consult, collaborate, and share resources (courses, computer labs, etc.) with colleagues who have common curricular interests in other departments and colleges.

What Is Graduate School?

Genevieve Carlton

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated February 26, 2024

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Graduate school can bring career benefits, but for many students, it's also a financial burden.

In many professions, a graduate degree pays off. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), earning a master's degree increases median earnings by nearly $13,000 per year over a bachelor's degree — and a doctorate or first-professional degree increases earning potential even more. Some careers even require a graduate degree, especially in fields like healthcare or legal services.

But what is graduate school? And should you go to graduate school? This article walks through different graduate degrees, helping prospective grad students make informed decisions about their educational futures.

Graduate school provides focused, academic training in specialized fields, resulting in master's degrees, doctorates, or first-professional degrees. Most master's and doctoral programs emphasize research and academic skills, while first-professional degrees train graduates for specific careers. Typically, graduate students have already earned bachelor's degrees.

What Is a Master's Degree?

A master's degree introduces students to graduate-level coursework, which often includes a dissertation requirement. Several career paths require a master's degree for entry-level roles, including school principal , economist , and managerial roles in business.

Many master's programs require bachelor's degrees or experience for admission. For example, applicants may need specific prerequisite courses or a certain number of years of professional work in the field. Earning a master's degree typically takes two years for full-time students.

What Is a Doctorate?

A doctoral degree offers advanced, specialized study in an academic area. As a terminal degree, a doctorate is the highest level of training available in most fields. Doctoral degree-holders typically hold research, academic, or leadership positions; for example, college professors and psychologists typically need doctorates.

Most doctoral programs require a master's degree for admission. Completing a doctorate can take 3-5 years, depending on the program.

What Is a First-Professional Degree?

A first-professional degree provides graduate-level training in a professional field. Unlike master's programs, first-professional degrees typically do not require undergraduate degrees in the discipline, though they often require applicants to have a bachelor's degree of some variety.

Examples of first-professional degrees include Juris Doctor (JD) — which lawyers usually need before they can take the bar exam — and doctor of medicine degrees, which medical doctors need to practice medicine. Other fields that offer first-professional degrees include dental medicine, optometry, pharmacy, and physical therapy. Completing a first-professional degree generally takes 3-6 years.

Which Careers Require Graduate School?

While a graduate degree is an advantage in most fields, there are some careers that require it, usually as part of the licensure process. This is most common in education or healthcare fields. For example, a school counselor must hold a master's degree, while lawyers need first-professional degrees . Librarians generally need master's degrees , as do clinical social workers . Medical scientists typically hold doctorates, as do many college professors.

Pursuing Graduate Study in the Humanities

A graduate degree in the humanities or social sciences prepares students for careers in academia or advancement within their fields. For instance, a master's degree in English can lead to employment as a high school teacher , while doctoral degrees in history train graduates to become history professors. With a master's degree in theater, a graduate can find employment as a director, playwright, or actor.

Most graduate students in the humanities already hold bachelor's degrees in their fields, though they can also major in an unrelated subject. Humanities graduate programs often require exams and a thesis or dissertation, depending on the degree level.

Pursuing Graduate Study in STEM

STEM fields include the natural sciences, computer science, information technology, mathematics, and engineering. A doctorate in science or mathematics prepares graduates for careers as professors or research scientists, while a master's degree in information technology can lead to employment as a data scientist, computer and information research scientist , or IT manager. Some programs combine STEM fields with business or management classes.

Most STEM graduate programs require applicants to have completed undergraduate math courses, and many programs prefer STEM-related undergraduate majors. Graduate students in STEM typically complete thesis projects to earn their degrees.

Pursuing Graduate Study in Business

A graduate degree in business emphasizes practical skills for executives and those pursuing careers in management. The most popular graduate degree is the master of business administration (MBA), which trains learners for supervisory positions in marketing, finance, healthcare administration, and human resources. A business graduate student can also earn a doctor of business administration (DBA) or a Ph.D. in business. While the DBA focuses on professional skills, the Ph.D. emphasizes research and academic career prospects.

During a business graduate program, degree-seekers take classes in management, organizational behavior, and leadership. Most programs offer concentrations in supply chain management, information systems management, or international business. In addition to coursework, graduate students often complete internships and capstone projects.

Business graduate programs typically do not require undergraduate degrees in business, though many require introductory courses in business administration, marketing, finance, or statistics. A doctoral program may require a master's degree for admission.

Pursuing First-Professional Degrees

A first-professional degree offers career-focused training for jobs that require graduate-level education. Prospective lawyers, doctors, pharmacists, dentists, and veterinarians must earn first-professional degrees to qualify for examinations or earn licensure. For example, lawyers who want to practice law must sit for the bar exam, and medical students take medical licensing exams to become physicians and surgeons.

The length of first-professional degrees varies by field. Law students complete three years of coursework to earn their degrees, while a doctor of pharmacy program typically requires four years. Medical students spend four years completing classes in medical school before earning their degrees and then furthering their training with residencies.

Incoming first-professional degree students often must meet prerequisite requirements. Medical schools and physical therapy programs, for instance, require coursework in the natural sciences, anatomy, and mathematics to gain admission.

Career Benefits

Even in fields where a graduate degree is not required for license qualifications, earning one can still help professionals advance in their current field or move into a new career.

A graduate degree can yield a higher earning potential in nearly every field. In 2018, men with master's degrees reported a median annual income of $99,620, compared to $75,150 with a bachelor's degree. Meanwhile, women with master's degrees earned $66,740, compared to only $56,680 with a bachelor's. Doctorates similarly increase earning potential: Men with doctoral degrees earned $115,790, while women with doctorates earned $95,170.

In addition to higher salaries, a graduate education often leads to a lower unemployment rate. In 2019, the BLS reported an unemployment rate of 2.0% for professionals with master's degrees and 1.1% for those with doctorates. Both figures fall well below the average rate of 3.0%.

Financial Considerations

For many students, financial factors are the biggest question when it comes to attending graduate school. According to the National Center for Education Statistics , the average tuition and fees for graduate school exceeds $19,000 per year. Many private schools charge even higher rates.

As a result, many graduate learners carry student loan debt. In 2016, 52.8% of master's enrollees had student debt, with an average of $50,300 to repay. Among doctoral-level learners, 43.6% reported student debt, with an average of $105,700 in loans. Similarly, 73.5% of first-professional degree students took out loans, adding up to an average of $178,800 in related debt.

In some schools — particularly online, hybrid, and part-time programs — graduate students can continue to work while earning their degrees, reducing the need to take out loans. Full-time or accelerated programs are often too time-consuming for degree-seekers to maintain employment.

Who Should Go to Graduate School?

The decision to go to grad school depends on your interests and career goals. Some career paths require graduate degrees: If you're set on a career as a dentist or a college professor, you'll need to attend graduate school. However, you can also consider alternatives that do not require graduate degrees, like becoming a dental hygienist or high school teacher.

Prospective grad students also need to balance the professional benefits of advanced degrees against the associated costs. It's worth considering the opportunity cost of graduate study . Can you work while earning a degree or will you need to leave the workforce for several years? How will that impact your career goals? The answer is different for everyone, so it's important to do your own research.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is graduate school like.

In graduate school, degree-seekers take advanced courses in their fields. Many graduate programs allow students to specialize in a focus area within the discipline. Depending on the program, grad students might analyze data, evaluate arguments, complete projects, and write papers. Some graduate programs require comprehensive examinations or dissertations.

Is Graduate School Difficult?

The difficulty of graduate school depends on the student and the program. Grad schools expect solid foundational knowledge in the discipline, with many programs setting high expectations. However, some students find grad school engaging and exciting, despite the difficulty.

Is Graduate School Worth It?

In many fields, a graduate degree pays off. While grad school tuition can add up, professionals with master's or doctoral degrees consistently out-earn those with only bachelor's degrees, so the long-term financial rewards may outweigh the cost of student loans.

How Many Years Is Graduate School?

The length of a graduate program depends on the degree and field. Some programs offer accelerated one-year master's degrees, while a doctorate can take five years or longer. When researching graduate school timelines, pay attention to the type of program. An accelerated program is more intensive, but finishes sooner, while a part-time program takes longer, but allows for more schedule flexibility.

What Do You Do in Graduate School?

In many graduate programs, learners take courses, seminars, and workshops to strengthen their knowledge and skills. Grad students may also complete internships, work on capstone projects, or research and write theses.

Should You Go to Graduate School?

If you're considering a graduate-level education, take the time to research the total cost of the degree, the placement record for each prospective program, and whether you need a graduate degree for advancement in your chosen career. In the end, only you can decide whether a graduate degree is right for you.

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