FAQs Commonly Asked By Grad Students
Have you got any questions? We’ve got the answers! Check out our list of “Frequently Asked Questions” that we have found are common concerns of students seeking a Master’s or Doctoral degree. Don’t be left in the dark about these matters. Let us help you stay informed with the most up-to-date information available today.
Grad School General Information
What are the Differences between an MBA Degree and an MBA Certificate?
An MBA degree typically requires two years of full-time coursework, while an MBA certificate program compacts the same core curriculum into just a few weeks or months.
What are the Differences between an Accelerated and a Non-Accelerated MBA?
An Accelerated MBA is a condensed version of the traditional Non-Accelerated MBA program, allowing students to complete their MBA in a shorter time.
What are the Levels of Graduate School?
Graduate school typically consists of two levels of degrees: Master’s and Doctoral.
What does it Take to Succeed in Grad School?
It is essential to have strong time management skills, a positive work ethic, and the ability to stay motivated and organized. Stay focused on your goals!
Preparing for Grad School
What Does it Take to Get into Graduate School?
Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to their chosen field, experience in their targeted area of study, and superior academic performance.
What Questions Should I Ask About Grad School?
Consider questions regarding curriculum, cost, social and professional benefits, and academic goals to ensure you can make the best decision.
What does a Grad School Look for in an Applicant?
To be successful, an applicant for grad school should have excellent grades, a well-written statement of purpose, and aptitude in any related research activities.
Do Grad Schools Look at Grades or Overall GPA?
Graduate school admissions look at overall GPA as the most important factor, but grades in courses that are relevant to the chosen field may also be taken into account.
Can Grad Schools Tell if You are Lying on Your Application?
Schools may use various methods to verify the information on an applicant’s grad school application, making it difficult to get away with falsehoods.
What do Grad Schools Think About Where You Received Your Undergrad Degree?
Admissions committees may perceive graduates from certain undergraduate institutions to be better prepared for graduate-level work than others.
What Makes You a Good Candidate for a Grad School Program?
Excellent academic qualifications and substantial research experience make you an ideal candidate for a graduate program.
How do I Prepare for a Grad School Interview?
Research the program and school ahead to help ensure a successful interview, and consider roleplaying your answers with friends or family.
GMAT or GRE: What to Take? What are the Differences?
The GMAT is traditionally more accepted for MBA programs, while the GRE is often used to apply to graduate programs in other areas of study, although each test has its advantages and drawbacks.
Reasons to Attend
Consider This: Why Go to Graduate School?
Going to graduate school can open up the opportunity to develop specialized knowledge in a specific field, deepen expertise, and learn from mentors to open doors to the next chapter of your career.
How Is Grad School Different From College?
Grad school is focused on a chosen field of interest and provides advanced study and research opportunities, whereas college is generally a broader overview of various subjects.
Accreditation
MBA Accreditation: What’s Legit?
MBA accreditation should always be verified before enrolling in a program to ensure that the program meets the high standards of quality expected of business education.
Program Costs: Tuition & Time
Is Graduate School Worth the Cost?
Graduating with a master’s degree can open up many doors — but it’s not without its financial and time commitments. Weigh your options before taking the plunge!
How Long Does Graduate School Take?
It typically takes two to six years of full-time study to earn a graduate degree, depending on your dedication and field of study.
How do I Pay for Graduate School?
Students can pay for graduate school using a variety of methods, such as scholarships, grants, loans, and part-time work.
What are the Costs Associated with an Online Grad School Degree?
Graduate school costs vary depending on the institution and chosen program, including factors such as tuition, technology fees, textbooks, and other miscellaneous fees.
What Kinds of Fellowships and Awards are Available in Grad School?
In addition to fellowships, there are also grants, scholarships, and awards available for outstanding research and contribution to a field of study.
Online Options
Can I Obtain a Master’s Degree Online?
Yes, it is possible to pursue a master’s degree online through accredited universities and colleges. Distance learning options are great for busy professionals.
Can I Obtain a Doctorate Online?
It is possible to obtain a doctorate online through accredited universities offering distance learning programs. They provide convenience and flexibility.
Specializations
What are the General Fields of Graduate Studies?
Graduate studies offer an advanced level of education in various disciplines ranging from the sciences to the humanities and much more.
How do I Choose a Field in Graduate School?
Choosing a field of graduate study requires careful consideration of both personal and professional preferences and goals.
Are Certain Fields More Suited to Online Graduate Degrees?
Online graduate degrees can be beneficial for those who desire a career in fields that require more self-paced learning and research.
Can I Change My Major Field in Graduate School?
It’s possible; however, some departments require you to fill out a form to change your major, and many programs require approval from the department chair.
Can My Graduate Degree be in a Different Field than My Undergraduate Major?
Yes, by doing so, you can expand your knowledge base and develop a more well-rounded understanding of the field in which you are pursuing a career.
Internships
Are Internships/Volunteer Work Important when Applying to Grad School?
Internships and volunteer work help students develop critical skills and make meaningful connections to contacts in the field, which are invaluable when looking for grad school acceptance.
Salary Opportunities
What are the Best Paying Graduate School Degrees?
The highest-paying graduate school degrees are typically in STEM fields such as engineering, computer science, and business.
Social Elements
How do I Balance Family and Grad School?
Juggling family and grad school requires careful planning and organization in order to manage both areas of responsibility.