Understanding Grad Schools

This might sound silly, but what exactly are grad schools? I know they're schools you attend after your undergrad studies, but how do they differ from colleges or universities, and why would someone want to go to grad school? I'm just trying to figure things out as a junior. Thanks in advance!

Grad schools, short for graduate schools, are institutions that offer advanced degrees beyond an undergraduate degree, typically a bachelor's. These degrees can include a Master's degree, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), or professional degrees like a Juris Doctor (JD) for law or Doctor of Medicine (MD) for medicine. These advanced degrees are known as graduate degrees and usually involve specialized, in-depth study in a specific field or profession.

The main difference between grad schools and undergraduate colleges or universities is the level of study and focus. Undergraduate programs, which you'd enter after high school, provide a broad, foundational education and usually award bachelor's degrees. Graduate programs, on the other hand, delve much deeper into a specific field or discipline and aim to develop advanced knowledge, skills, or expertise.

People may choose to attend grad school for several reasons, such as:

1. Career advancement: Many professions require advanced degrees to progress in the field. For example, academia typically requires a PhD, while practicing law or medicine requires a JD or MD, respectively.

2. Specialization: A graduate degree enables individuals to develop specialized knowledge and skills in their chosen area of interest, which can lead to greater job satisfaction and a deeper understanding of their field.

3. Research: Grad schools often emphasize research, particularly in PhD programs, where students are expected to contribute original knowledge to their field. This can be appealing to those interested in academia or research-focused careers.

4. Increased earning potential: Advanced degrees may lead to higher-paying jobs, as graduate degree holders tend to earn more than those with only undergraduate degrees.

As a junior, it's great that you're considering your options for the future. At this stage, it's essential to think about your interests, career goals, and whether pursuing a graduate degree would align with those ambitions. If you're leaning towards a field that values or requires a graduate degree, start researching potential programs and universities to develop a better understanding of what's involved. Additionally, talk to professionals in your desired field or current graduate students to gain firsthand insights into the grad school experience.