Welcome to College Zone - Which Zone Are You In?Return Home
e-Messaging | Order Materials | Publications & Applications | Contact Us
  
StudentParentCounselorFinancial Aid AdministratorLenderEspaolState of Illinois
6th-7th Grades
8th-12th Grades
College
Advanced Degree 
Planning
Reasons For Attending
When You Are Ready
Advanced Degree Checklist
Types Of Advanced Degrees
Assessment Testing
Adult Learners
Careers
Calculators
Finding / Applying
Financing
Teaching
Medical Professions
Military Service
FAQ's
Helpful Links
After College
e-Messaging Sign-Up
When You Are Ready
In order to get most advanced degrees, you will first need a bachelor’s degree. Some programs allow you to enroll in a combined program, so check with the college’s counseling office. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of going to graduate or professional school right after obtaining your undergraduate degree vs. first working for a few years.

Going to graduate or professional school right after college is beneficial because you’re already motivated in your study habits. You have developed a discipline pattern that may be hard to recapture after working for a few years. On the other hand, once out of college, you may be left with a great deal of debt. Graduate or professional school will add to your overall bill.

Going to graduate or professional school after working for a few years in your field will give you a better understanding of the subject and what specific areas are important to learn and develop. You’ll also be able to apply your work experiences to graduate or professional school by finding solutions to real-world problems and developing good ideas for research and your thesis. This route may also be beneficial because you’ll be able to save money for your education. And in some cases, your employer may even pay for your schooling through a tuition reimbursement program. Another consideration is family. If you have a spouse and/or children, you will have to juggle school, finances and time for your family.

Printable version
Printable version
      Partners of the College Zone Network:   | College Illinois! | IDAPP |      
      About ISAC | Site Map | Your Privacy | Terms & ConditionsPowered by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC)      
© 2003-2008 Illinois Student Assistance Commission