TIGER ATHLETICS
Getting your bachelor’s degree was a huge step in your academic career, and now you’re thinking about the next one: starting a graduate degree. This can be an exciting journey to embark on, but what does it look like? Most people talk about getting their undergraduate degree, what happens while working on your master’s? Here are just a few things you can expect while working on your graduate degree:
Coursework is more engaging. You will be using and continuing to develop the skills that you built up during your undergraduate career. Specifically, you will learn how to find and apply information and become an independent learner.- The focus of the study is specific. In your undergraduate work, you took a lot of general education courses as well as several classes that, while related to your major, weren’t entirely focused on the area of interest. A Master’s program narrows down what you’re studying to a focused area of your chosen field, meaning, your classes will all specifically concentrate on your area of study.
- Participation is more important. Class participation may have seemed like a trivial part of your undergraduate class, but it’s a vital part of your success in a graduate program. Participation shows that you’re engaging with the course material, and it allows you to reach new insights about your course of study.
- Independent learning is encouraged. You have control over your learning, and this shows as you enter your master’s program. While your professors and fellow classmates remain valuable resources, you’re encouraged to research answers to your own questions.
- School-life balance is different. Life happens, maybe you’re married with a full-time job and kids. Pursuing a graduate degree is still an attainable goal; if anything, your gained life experience may give you a fresh perspective on your academic learning.
- Experience is more rewarding. When it’s all said and done, you will likely feel a much broader sense of pride as you complete your master’s degree than you did in completing your bachelor’s. Additionally, whether you decide to pursue a career in academia or elsewhere, having a master’s will have the opportunity to set you apart from your peers.
For those who choose to continue their education beyond the undergraduate level, it can be a very challenging yet rewarding experience. Ultimately, your education is what you make of it.