How Hard Is It to Get Into Grad School?
Let’s start with the basic requirement. A bachelor’s degree is mandatory when applying to a master’s program.
You do not need to pursue a graduate degree in the same major you earned your bachelor’s. Start searching for grad schools that fit your interest and go from there.
Research – Consider the following:
- Do you want to study online, in-person, or would be comfortable with a hybrid of the two?
- What kind of community do you want to be immersed in? Typically, master’s programs are more intimate in the sense that you will not be in a lecture hall of 200 peers.
- Financial Aid, Grants and Scholarships are available and vary depending on the school
- Dorming on-campus is usually reserved for undergraduate students, so do take off-campus housing into consideration if you plan on moving closer to campus.
Application and Interview Process
- Application fees vary and some schools waive their application fees
- Some graduate schools will require an interview with the program Dean and/or Director
- Depending on the program you will need to submit the following documents:
- Official transcripts – Proof of all courses taken and where you obtained your bachelor’s is mandatory. Exam results are required depending on your major
- Letter of recommendation and/or references – You’ll want to submit anywhere from one to three letters
- Statement of interest – Explain why you want to pursue your master’s degree
Once accepted, stay in touch with the Admissions team and your assigned advisor. They are there to help you and support you every step of the way. Make sure to network with your peers and professors as you will be surrounded by other working professionals in your field of interest.
Many programs offer practicum opportunities, giving you the ability to put what you’ve learned in class to the test. The best way to apply your knowledge is through doing.
For information on applying to Notre Dame de Namur University, please visit the Admissions page.
How Hard is Earning a Master’s Degree While Fully Employed?
When pursuing higher education, the major step when starting it to make it work out in your favor. Your wellbeing, finances, and personal obligations should always come first. Yes, the common theme is “you have to give a lot up to get a master’s”, but that does not have to be applicable to your chapter. With so many master programs catering to the working adult/parent, finding a good fit for you will present itself as you research.
Scheduling and time management
Make sure you are aware of any potential conflicts between your work and school schedules before enrolling. Be honest with yourself about how busy you are at work/home throughout weeks, months, and days of the year.
If you can, start your program in one of the slower seasons/months to avoid enrolling in the classes that you believe will be most difficult during very hectic times at work.
Time commitment of two years as opposed to four along with opportunity to learn fully online or continue in-person, dependent on your learning style.
Practice what you are learning
Being able to put theory into practice and bring real-world examples and challenges to class discussions is one of the most satisfying aspects of working full-time and finishing graduate school. Use your professional expertise and anecdotal evidence to inform your writing and research.
Use assignments to create policies or initiatives that you might be interested in addressing at work, to learn about a position you could be aiming for in the future, or to research a subject that interests you.
Choose your school wisely
Find the right fit for you. The age-old argument of online versus in-person comes into play. Keep in mind online classes still have due dates and mandatory classes, just like in-person courses.
A lot of online courses provide start dates throughout the year, letting you select the one that works best for you. You can also think about enrolling in a college that offers accelerated study choices, which can frequently help you save time and money.
For information on applying to Notre Dame de Namur University, please visit the Admissions Page.
