What is a graduate degree?
Learn about different types of graduate degrees, career paths you can pursue, and the benefits of earning a graduate degree.
Understanding graduate degrees: What you need to know
A graduate degree is an advanced degree you can pursue after earning a bachelor’s degree. Graduate school can help you specialize in your field, gain skills for leadership roles, further your academic pursuits or enter a specialized career.
Types of graduate degrees
If you want to gain advanced expertise or expand your knowledge in your field, get to know the types of graduate degrees you can pursue.
Master’s degrees
Master's degree programs help learners hone advanced research, data analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in their discipline. These programs span various fields, often offering joint programs, concentrations, or specialty tracks that align with your interests and market demands.
Common master's degrees:
- Master of arts (MA)
- Master of business administration (MBA)
- Master of laws (LLM)
- Master of science (MS or MSc)
Typical requirements:
- Capstone project, thesis, or exit exam
- Supervised practical experience, like internships or clinical hours
Duration:
- Usually 18 months to three years (varies by program, school, enrollment, and format)
Cost:
Median tuition and fees: $9,880 (National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 2020)
Doctorate
Doctoral and professional degrees are the highest credentials you can earn in any field, often referred to as terminal degrees. Graduates of these programs become subject-matter experts in their field and earn the title of "doctor."
They are divided into two main types:
PhD
A doctor of philosophy (PhD) is a research-oriented doctoral degree program focused on theoretical frameworks to develop new research methodologies and protocols or generate new knowledge in a specific academic discipline.
- Requirements: PhD dissertation
- Typical careers: Professors, scholars, researchers, scientists
- Duration: Usually 4–8 years
Professional degree
A professional degree is a practice-based doctorate that combines advanced academic coursework with hands-on training and experience in a student's field and work setting.
Common professional degrees include:
- Doctor of education (Ed.D.)
- Doctor of nursing (DNP)
- Doctor of social work (DSW)
- Doctor of pharmacy (PharmD)
- Doctor of physical therapy (DPT)
- Doctor of public health (DrPH)
Duration:
- Typically three years (varies by specialization)
Cost:
- Median tuition and fees: $21,503 annually (NCES, 2020)
- Prospective students should evaluate ways to offset costs, such as assistantships, grants, scholarships, and loans.
Keep in mind …
Some academic fields offer both PhDs and professional degrees. For example, a PhD in nursing emphasizes health research, while a DNP focuses on clinical practice and involves direct patient care.
Graduate certificates
Graduate certificates can provide learners with graduate-level specialized knowledge and skills in a fraction of the time it takes to earn a master's or doctoral degree. Unlike master's and doctoral programs, graduate certificates don't offer an overview of a field. Instead, they focus on practical approaches to specific topics for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree.
In comparison, a professional certificate is a credential that universities and industry leaders offer that dives into the fundamentals of an in-demand skill or subject. Earning a professional certificate may help you flexibly advance your career. Most professional certificates don't require a bachelor's degree.
Undergraduate vs. Graduate degrees: What's the difference?
- Undergraduate degree: Strengthens critical thinking and reasoning skills through general education requirements. You'll also specialize by choosing a major.
- Graduate degree: Offers specialized coursework for those who already hold an undergraduate degree.
Why pursue a graduate degree? Key benefits and career outcomes
The decision to pursue a graduate degree is a personal one and depends on factors like your readiness to return to school, your ability to balance commitments, and your financial circumstances.
Benefits of getting a graduate degree include:
- Specialized knowledge and in-demand skills
- New career opportunities
- Accessing higher salaries
- Expanding your professional network
- Achieving your personal goals
Top career opportunities and salaries after graduate school
A graduate degree can help you qualify for a new career or advance in your current field. The following table introduces some in-demand careers that require a graduate degree.
| Career | Graduate Degree Required | Median Annual Salary (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Computer scientist | Master’s degree | $140,910 |
| Epidemiologist | Master’s degree | $83,980 |
| Healthcare social worker | Master’s degree | $68,090 |
| Nurse practitioner | Master’s degree | $129,210 |
| Psychologist | Doctorate degree | $94,310 |
Is a graduate degree worth it?
Graduate school might be worth it for you if it helps you achieve your personal and professional goals. Earning a graduate degree can help you grow your career and earn higher salaries. To determine if a graduate degree is worth it, examine the program's cost, your finances, your potential earnings after graduation, and the job outlook for your chosen career.
Pros
- A graduate degree can help you increase your earning potential.
- You'll stand out on the job market in fields that prefer to hire candidates with graduate degrees.
- Several career paths require a graduate degree.
- Flexible graduate programs make it easier to work while advancing your education.
Cons
- The cost of a graduate degree may not be worth the increase in earning potential.
- Earning a master's degree takes 1–2 years, while doctoral programs can take 3–6 years.
- A graduate degree does not guarantee career advancement or higher salaries.
- The benefits of a graduate degree vary greatly by field.
How to choose the right graduate degree
Consider these factors when researching graduate programs:
- Admission requirements: When researching graduate programs, carefully review the admission requirements, including any prerequisite courses or experience requirements.
- Online vs. on-campus graduate programs: What's your learning style and schedule? Earning a graduate degree online appeals to students who plan to work while in grad school.
- Total cost: Compare tuition, fees, and other expenses to find a program that fits your budget. Research financial aid opportunities to lower your total cost.
- Program length: Accelerated graduate programs take as little as one year, while doctoral programs require a longer time commitment.
- Accreditation: Always choose an accredited college or university. Accredited degrees are more likely to meet licensure, certification, and employer requirements.
Advance your career with the right graduate degree
A graduate degree can help you take the next step in your career. But what's the right graduate program for you? Learn more about edX graduate degree programs to find an option that fits your schedule, budget, and career goals.