Telltale Signs It’s Time to Go to Graduate School

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The decision to attend graduate school and earn an advanced degree is one of the most important in one's life. Prospective graduate students must consider the reputation of both the school and the program, not to mention the length of the program and the cost of attendance. For many students, however, the most pressing question is when to enroll in a graduate program.

In the current economic climate, many graduate schools are bracing themselves for the highest number of applications ever, as people head back to school in order to bolster training and credentials, seek additional job training, and/or circumvent a stagnant job market. With this in mind, what are some key indicators that suggest it’s time to go back to school? For those students wrestling with the decision of when to go to graduate school, here are some signs that it’s time to take the next step in the pursuit of higher education:

Changing jobs in your organization: If you’re looking to change jobs in your current organization, then consider a graduate degree for its potential to help you stand out amongst your colleagues. For example, you might want to move from marketing to finance or project management to HR. Having a graduate degree, particularly one with a specialization in the discipline that interests you (e.g. an MBA in Finance), is an excellent way to start a new career within your company.
In need of more greenbacks: Graduate school will no doubt be costly, but it remains a worthy investment in terms of earning potential. Those with master’s or doctoral degrees are poised to earn significantly higher salaries than those with bachelor’s degrees. In fact, if you have a graduate degree under your belt, you’re more likely to start your career at a higher level and advance your career at a faster rate than if you earned only a bachelor's degree in your chosen field.
Desiring a career change: Perhaps you’ve lost interest in your current career and would like to pursue a new path? If so, then consider pursuing an advanced degree in the field you plan to enter. You’ll have the chance to obtain hands-on experience and do more intensive work in the field you love.
Need to boost your employment marketability: Sure, advanced degrees aren’t required for many entry-level jobs, but you may wish to consider this option if you’d like to keep your training and skills current. Graduate school gives you the unique chance to broaden your training by providing access to diverse coursework and experiences. As a result, you’ll bring a fresh perspective to your job, which will subsequently enhance your marketability.

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