Should I go to Graduate School Right After Undergrad?
As an undergraduate student, you have countless opportunities ahead of you. You also have countless options regarding your next professional or academic move.
If you think that graduate school is in your future, you may be wondering — when should I go to grad school? Should I go to graduate school right after undergrad?
There’s data-backed research that suggests that now is the best time to go back to school for a master’s degree, and we’re here to share it with you. Let’s get started.
Tip: Which graduate program is right for you? Explore our educational guides to learn more about PLU’s programs.
It’s most affordable now (tuition costs will only continue to increase)
Did you know that tuition rates increase nearly twice as fast as general inflation rate? In fact, on average, tuition rates actually increase about 8 percent each year.
In other words, it will never be more affordable to attend graduate school than it is right now. If you know that you’re likely going to pursue a graduate degree, you’ll actually save money by choosing graduate school now (instead of waiting).
You’ll reap the benefits of graduate school sooner
The sooner you obtain a graduate degree the sooner you’ll reap the benefits of the graduate degree you pursue. On average, those who hold a graduate degree make about thousands of dollars more per year compared to those who only hold a bachelor’s degree.
Further, armed with a graduate degree, you’ll be better positioned for more senior roles in your industry — in turn, resulting in higher salaries and increased job security.
You’re already “in practice” for being in school
As an undergraduate student, you are used to balancing classes, coursework, projects, your personal life, and maybe even a job.
If you choose to go to graduate school right after undergrad, you can take advantage of the fact that you’re “in practice” for being in school, and you won’t need to relearn the time management skills that are so imperative to succeeding in a graduate program.
Ready to enjoy the benefits of graduate school? Connect with PLU!
If you’re considering choosing graduate school in the near future, you should know that there really is no better time to obtain an advanced degree. You have the valuable opportunity to hone your skills, challenge the status quo, and make a name for yourself in your chosen field.
At Pacific Lutheran University, we seek to educate students for lives of thoughtful inquiry, service, leadership and care — for other people, for their communities, and for the world. We hope you will consider transforming your future with a graduate degree from PLU!
Ready to learn more? Request more information or schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor today.
Don’t put your new career on hold — explore our educational guides to learn more about PLU programs and how you can get started today.