Why earning a master’s degree is worth it
From more skills to fresh possibilities: Why grad school might be your best next move
You’re almost there: cap and gown in sight, or maybe just trying to survive that last stats final. Either way, the “what’s next?” question is probably creeping in. And if your brain has ever spiraled into “should I go to grad school?” territory, you’re definitely not alone.
So let’s unpack it. Is a master’s degree worth it? It depends, but it might be the smartest move you can make for your career.
Let’s break it down — no jargon, no pressure — just the facts to help you figure out if grad school should be on your radar.
The big question: Is a master’s degree worth it?
Short answer: It can be, depending on your goals, industry and timing.
Master’s programs give you the chance to specialize in your field, build career-specific skills, and stand out in a crowded job market. At the University of Cincinnati, you can choose from graduate degrees in areas like engineering, business, education, health sciences and beyond — and many programs offer hybrid or fully online formats for flexibility.
Explore UC’s Graduate College offerings.
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The perks: Benefits of a master’s degree
Better earning potential: A top reason students consider grad school is the master’s degree salary increase. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, median weekly earnings for those with a master’s are around 17% higher than those with a bachelor’s. That can really add up over time.
Career mobility and job security: Want to switch roles or step into leadership? A graduate degree often opens doors to higher-level positions that might require specialized expertise. Plus, in fields that are constantly changing (looking at you, tech and healthcare), that extra education can help future-proof your career.
Expanded network: Grad school = new connections. Think professors, professionals, mentors, and fellow students who may one day become coworkers, collaborators, or even future employers. At UC, you’re joining a growing and supportive community of Bearcat grad students.
- Personal fulfillment: Love learning? Want to deepen your knowledge? Grad school isn’t just about jobs; it’s about investing in yourself, your passions, and your future.
The real talk: Costs and considerations of getting a master's degree
We won’t sugarcoat it; the cost of a master’s degree can feel like a lot up front. But that’s why it’s so important to weigh the return on investment (ROI) of grad school, aka what you get out of the investment compared to what you pay.
Things to consider:
Tuition and fees
Cost of living (especially if moving or studying full time)
Lost income if you’re not working during school
The good news? Financial support is available, and UC offers plenty of ways to make grad school work for your budget.
For more information on the costs of a master’s degree, read: The cost of a master’s degree: What you’ll pay — and what you’ll gain.
Funding your master’s degree: Options at UC
At UC, many graduate students take advantage of options like:
Graduate assistantships: These often include tuition remission and a living stipend in exchange for research, teaching, or program support roles.
Fellowships and scholarships: Merit-based funding opportunities that can vary by department or area of study.
Flexible programs, including part-time, evening, or fully online degrees. So you can keep working while learning.
Employer-sponsored tuition support: If you're already working — especially in your field — be sure to look into employer-sponsored tuition benefits. For UC employees, the university offers tuition remission as part of its benefits package.
Still unsure how it might all add up? You can connect with your program’s admission coordinator or UC’s Graduate Admissions for personalized insight into what funding and your return on investment (ROI) might look like based on your goals.
Is it the right time to get your master's degree?
Another common question: “Should I go to grad school right after undergrad?” There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are a few questions to ask yourself:
Do I need a master’s to achieve my career goals?
Would additional education help me move into a different industry or stand out in my current one?
Am I ready to take this on financially and mentally?
Do I want to keep my academic momentum going before diving into full-time work?
Some students head straight into a master’s program. Others build a few years of experience before returning. The best timing? It’s the one that works for you.
Weighing the pros and cons of going to grad school
Still on the fence about if you should get your master's degree? Here’s a quick breakdown:
Pros | Cons |
Higher earning potential | Tuition and potential debt |
Opens doors to advanced roles | Time commitment |
Increases job security | May delay entering the workforce |
Builds a strong professional network | ROI depends on the field and goals |
Deepens expertise in your field | Not always necessary for all careers |
If the pros align with your goals, grad school could be the smart next step that takes your education and career to the next level.
Final thoughts: Your future starts here
If you’re dreaming bigger, looking to grow your skills, or wanting to stand out in your field, a master’s degree could be a powerful next step. It’s not just about what it costs; it’s about what it can unlock.
And remember: You don’t have to figure it all out today. Start by exploring graduate programs, talking to advisers, and thinking about what matters most to you.
UC is here to support your journey, whenever you’re ready to take it.
Read more about going to grad school to earn your master's degree: