By DeVry University
February 3, 2021
5 min read
February 3, 2021
5 min read
While a bachelor’s degree can be an excellent pathway to a fulfilling career, you may be considering expanding your education with a graduate degree in order to prepare to pursue your next-level goals. Whether you’re looking toward a role in your current field or considering changing careers entirely, advancing your education can be a great step forward.
May 2023 career outlook data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows those who’ve attained a master’s degree earn more per week, on average, and are less likely to be unemployed, than those with only a bachelor’s degree.
For many people, the benefits of a graduate degree are immeasurable, enabling them to advance their knowledge and skills in pursuit of their next career milestone. So exactly what is a graduate degree, and why should you pursue one?
Doctoral degrees and some master’s degrees are terminal, which means that they are the highest you can obtain in a specific field, while other master’s degrees can be earned either on their own or on the way to a future doctoral degree.
It’s also important to note that some master’s degree programs – in a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) field, for example – may require students to have completed undergraduate studies in a relevant subject area such as STEM or business. This allows graduate students to build on their previous education and upskill in the areas that are most relevant.
An undergraduate program:
A graduate degree:
1At the time of application to the next credential level, an evaluation of qualifying transfer credit will occur and the most beneficial outcome will be applied.
2Program, course, and extended classroom availability vary by location. In site-based programs, students will be required to take a substantial amount of coursework online to complete their program.
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