Graduate & Professional School

Visit the Monmouth University Graduate Studies Site

Should I Go to Graduate School?

Graduate school can help you gain specialized knowledge, advance in your field, or qualify for careers that require an advanced degree. However, it is important to determine whether graduate education aligns with your career goals before investing significant time and financial resources.

Graduate school is not a requirement for career success. Many graduates launch successful careers immediately after earning their bachelor’s degree, while others pursue advanced education later after gaining professional experience. The best choice is the one that aligns with your goals, interests, and long-term plans.

Graduate School May Be Right for You If:

Your career goal requires an advanced degree or professional credential.
You want to develop specialized knowledge or skills.
An advanced degree is preferred for advancement in your field.
You have a clear understanding of how the degree supports your career goals.

Consider Gaining Experience First If:

You are unsure of your career direction.
Your field values work experience as much as education.
You would like to explore career options before committing to a program.
You may benefit from employer tuition assistance in the future.

Questions to Consider:

Is an advanced degree required, preferred, or optional in my field?
How will this degree help me achieve my career goals?
What are the costs, time commitment, and potential return on investment?
Would gaining work experience first strengthen my application or clarify my goals?

Need Help Deciding?

Career Development can help you evaluate your options, research career pathways, explore graduate programs, and develop a plan that aligns with your personal and professional goals. Schedule an appointment with a Career Coach to discuss whether graduate school is the right next step for you.

Common Graduate School Admission Tests

Many graduate and professional programs require standardized admissions exams. Be sure to review the requirements of each program you are considering.

GRE (Graduate Record Examination) – Commonly required for many master’s and doctoral programs.
GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) – Often required for MBA and business graduate programs.
LSAT (Law School Admission Test) – Required for most law school admissions.
MCAT (Medical College Admission Test) – Required for medical school admissions.
DAT (Dental Admission Test) – Required for dental school admissions.
PA-CAT Information – Used by some physician assistant programs.
Praxis Exams – Often required for teacher certification and education programs.

Application Timeline

The graduate school application process often begins 9–12 months before enrollment, with many fall admission deadlines occurring between November and January. Starting early allows time to prepare for admissions tests, secure recommendations, and develop strong application materials.

12 Months Before Enrollment

Research programs and admission requirements
Explore career outcomes and program fit
Determine whether admissions tests are required
Create a list of prospective schools

9–12 Months Before Enrollment

Register for and prepare for required admissions exams (GRE, GMAT, LSAT, MCAT, etc.)
Build relationships with faculty and professionals who may serve as references
Attend graduate school fairs and information sessions