Graduate School: To Go or Not to Go?

Have you ever thought about going back to school and getting a graduate degree? Have you wondered how you could manage it with your busy schedule? With the multitude of online education and degree programs available, getting a graduate degree is more than possible. Yet the main question remains: Is a graduate degree right for you?

Given the state of the economy, many people are contemplating using online education to learn new skills and make themselves more employable or to help them get a better job. In order to make an informed decision, it is best to take a closer look at your situation, your motivation and your end destination.

Your Situation
Just like the character Hamlet in Shakespeare’s play of the same name, you have to analyze your current situation to see where you stand before you make a big decision. While graduate school is not nearly as dark or permanent a choice as Hamlet’s contemplation of suicide, it is still a big decision that requires some thought. First of all, are you currently employed? If you’re not, then graduate school might be a good use of your time, especially when there are some financial-aid options available based on your situation.

If you are employed, would a graduate degree help your position, either by making you more useful to the company or helping you get a promotion? Second, do you have the financial means to go back to school? If you don’t have the money and you are not eligible for grants or scholarships, then it is probably wiser to put off graduate school for a while. Also, can you handle the extra work and time that is necessary to do well in school, and is your family supportive?

Your Motivation
The second area you need to analyze is your motivation for going to graduate school. For example, are you looking for self-improvement, achievement of a personal goal or to get a new job? The first two examples are tied to the concept of your financial situation. If you can afford it or can get funding, go ahead and reach for those goals; otherwise, it is better to wait. If your goal is a new job and a bigger income, then it might actually pay to go back to school.

Your End Destination
Finally, you need to look at your end destination. If you are thinking of moving up or moving out of your current job into a better job or a new career, then a graduate degree may be necessary. Check out job postings and see what kinds of degrees are required or preferred for the jobs you want, and then you will have a better idea of what your next step should be. If you want to gain more job security in your current position, a degree might be just the ticket; however, it could be that just some continuing education classes or seminars could be enough.

In the end, the decision to start a graduate program is up to you. Just remember to take a look at your situation, your motivation and your end destination before you take the first step.

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