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MythBusters: Graduate School Edition

Graduate School Myths Debunked

Choosing to go to graduate school is an important decision that will affect your life for 2-3 years and should be taken seriously.

While there are serious reasons to consider if graduate school is right for you, there are a slew of myths that hold people back from applying. If you’re looking for reasons to apply, check out our list of 10 reasons why you should go to graduate school.

In this article, we’re going to look at common reasons why someone chooses not to attend grad school, and debunk those excuses with truth.

1. I don’t need a master’s degree to get a job.

A master’s degree is becoming more of a requirement for positions that used to be entry-level. Despite signs of economic recovery, new graduates still face challenges in the job market. As of 2024, about 40.5% of recent college grads are underemployed, meaning they’re working part-time or in positions that don’t fully use their education or skills.

Living costs like rent and food keep rising, and these conditions reveal a trend: additional education and skill-building are now some of the most reliable paths to secure employment and strong career growth.

Bottom line: today’s job market increasingly values advanced degrees as a key to career stability and advancement.

2. I won’t make more money with a master’s degree.

Graduates with a master’s degree can see real financial advantages over those with only a bachelor’s. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that master’s degree holders earn about 18% more per week, which adds up to an average increase of $20,000 to $39,000 annually, depending on the field. Higher pay isn’t limited to one industry either, fields like healthcare, tech, and business especially reward those with advanced degrees. This income difference often translates to greater financial stability and broader career options, showing how a master’s degree can offer more than just a paycheck boost.

3. I don’t have time to go to grad school.

With the University of Florida online master’s programs, you can earn your master’s degree will working full-time, supporting a family, and maintaining a work-life balance. Courses are online, and you can watch lectures and do your homework on your own time throughout the week. No stressing about getting to class on time! 99% of our students work full-time and thrive in a supportive community together.

4. It’s too expensive.

We aren’t going to lie: school is expensive. But it always has been, regardless of the economy. Thankfully, there are opportunities to cover graduate school so you can earn your degree with minimal personal expense or debt.

  • Tip: Check with your employer. Many offer educational benefits.
  • Read more about Financial Resources

5. I’m too old to go back to school.

The average graduate student is in his or her mid to late 30s. Often, institutions seek older students with work and life experience because of the value they add to the topics being studied and discussion in the classroom.

6. My undergraduate grades were too bad.

Admissions committees don’t just look at grades. They look at everything in your application including letters of recommendation, statement of goals, the courses you took, internships, and work and life experience. We look for reasons to get you in, not to keep you out.

  • Tip: A high GRE score can boost a bad GPA.

7. There are too many programs to choose from.

It’s true. There are a lot of specializations and degrees to choose from. But, we’ve created this fun quiz to help you determine which specialization is right for you!