Explaining Your Options for Graduate School
This article will explain the different types of graduate school programs, what they mean, and what type of education you may need to receive acceptance.
By Britney Cox — October 24, 2022
"It does not matter what year you are. You should be thinking about graduate school." I heard this sentiment throughout my undergraduate experience. From the beginning of my freshman year, many people had different ideas. "Are you doing an MA or an MFA?" "Do you plan on getting your doctorate?" "You should do two master's programs at once!"
If you hear these questions and statements and are confused about where to start, this is the right article for you! This article will explain the different types of graduate school programs, what they mean, and what type of education you may need to receive acceptance.
To start the graduate school discussion, we should define what graduate school even means. Graduate school is additional schooling beyond your bachelor's degree, whether in arts, science, business, or fine arts. Graduate school is typically a time to narrow in on your specific field. You will likely do research and specialize in what type of research you want to continue with beyond your undergraduate degree.
Graduate school generally does not have a set number of years, unlike a bachelor's degree, which most likely takes four years. The time you spend in graduate school depends on your chosen program. Even a specific program can take a different amount of time at different universities. Graduate school is a place to develop your skills and learn more about what you can contribute to your specific field.
Master of Arts (MA)
A Master of Arts degree likely pertains to people with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree, though this is not always the case. The degree probably has some room to be flexible regarding creativity within your work. However, you still will have to conduct some research. Programs may offer a stipend, typically just enough to live on while you study. Since arts programs are not as much of an interest to the government, you are unlikely to get grants at this level. This degree is a good stepping stone for a Ph.D.
Master of Science (MS)
Similar to an MA degree, the Master of Science degree is likely for people who got a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. This degree is likely less creative than a MA degree, however. MS degrees often work with quantitative data to come to some conclusive result in their research. You might receive a stipend, and you may even be able to apply for a grant if the government sees interest in your specific study. This degree is an excellent predecessor to a Ph.D. or medical degree.
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
A Master of Fine Arts degree is similar to the MA and MS degrees. However, it takes a completely creative route. People who try for this degree may have a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree, or if they do not, they likely received a degree in something that has a creative side, like English or film studies. For this degree, you are less likely to conduct research. Instead, you will likely create a large project, like a book, film, play, etc. Some MFA programs offer complete funding, while others may offer a stipend.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
The Master of Business Administration degree is for people who likely earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree. This degree focuses entirely on the practice of business and its applications. Some programs have stipends, but others often offer nothing at all. This degree has a high expectation that people currently work in the field and come back for additional training. This degree could be a stepping stone to a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA).
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
This degree is the highest you can earn in some fields. The Doctor of Philosophy degree is for people who do extensive research in their field and have it approved by a committee. This degree takes anywhere from four to six years, sometimes even more. Most Ph.D. programs offer full funding because you are expected to be entirely dedicated to your research. Graduates call themselves doctors upon graduation, and, much like a medical degree, the degree is one of the most difficult to get.
There are many advanced degrees to earn beyond your bachelor's degree. Each is unique in its content, and the amount of time it takes to complete. Graduate school on any level is often described as difficult and time-consuming. You must be serious about your field enough to dedicate more time and research. There are many more degrees I did not even mention, like a Medical Degree (MD), Doctor of Education (Ed.D), Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D), etc. Take the time to research what your field expects of you and make your decision in time for senior year to start applying to these programs.
Britney Cox
Britney Cox is a writer from Huntington, WV. She has two Bachelor of Arts degrees in Literary Studies and Creative Writing. She is currently working on her Masters in English, and she plans to pursue her doctorate eventually in hopes of becoming a professor (though her longtime dream is to work in the entertainment industry). Her passions include reading, writing, theatre, and listening to Taylor Swift.
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