Types of Graduate School Programs

In a job market that increasingly requires advanced-level degrees for many positions, more and more people are choosing to pursue graduate-level education after completing their bachelor's degree. Additionally, many individuals already in the workforce are choosing to pursue a higher level education in order to increase their current salary or to gain the further education necessary to move into a higher-level position.

The type of graduate school program pursued will vary depending on the needs of a particular student. Generally speaking, advanced education can be divided along the following lines: graduate degree programs vs. professional degree programs, master's versus doctoral and full-time versus part-time.

Professional Degrees
While they involve work done after undergraduate studies, master's, medical and juris doctorate's are often called professional degree programs instead of graduate degree programs. They involve training for a very specific position and, as in the case of medical and law, often have a certification test that must be passed after completion of schooling. These studies are usually not funded, so students should expect to have to take out a graduate school loan to finance their educational endeavors. Other school studies that do not fall under this umbrella include master's and doctorate's in the sciences and in the humanities.

Master's and Doctorate
Master's degrees in physical science, social science, engineering, education and other fields with a clearly defined industry outside of academia are usually completed either as a first step towards pursuing a doctorate or in preparation for working in that industry. While master's in these fields sometimes offer funding, it is not uncommon for a student to have to take out a graduate school student loan to finance schooling.

A doctorate prepares a student to receive a PhD, the highest educational level available in any field. While few industry jobs require a PhD, most four-year research universities require that their permanent faculty hold a PhD. Thus, many students plan to remain in academia as a professor after completing their degree. Doctoral studies are a common option in advanced work in the humanities, as the majority of job positions in the humanities are college teaching positions. While not always funded, it is not uncommon for doctoral programs to provide students with tuition wavers and living stipends during their time in the program.

Full-Time and Part-Time
Generally speaking, most doctoral programs will be full time. There are, however, several options for completing a master's degree as a part-time student. Many colleges and universities offer night classes for popular master's studies, such as an education, and many also offer online courses. A part-time program is a sensible option for students who are already working full-time and who are pursuing a degree in order to move into a higher position in their industry or to increase their current salary.

Anyone considering a degree in any field should carefully evaluate the types of programs available, their cost and the academic standing of the college or university granting the degree. While not a decision to be made lightly, pursuing graduate-level education can be a fulfilling and profitable option for many individuals.

Author is a freelance copywriter who writes frequently about available options for student loans for those planning to enter college. If you are interested in a graduate school loan, be sure to visit https://www.salliemae.com/.