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graduate degree

graduate degree questions and answers

More information about graduate degree at Education News.

Q: Can I get a graduate degree in speech pathology with a bachelors in psychology?
I want to my bachelors in psychology, because I want to go to medical school to become a neurologist. BUT if that is not possible, I want to get my graduate degree in speech pathology. Can you do that with a psychology degree?

A: Actually, no degree you earn, besides one in communicative disorders (or something that is equivalent), will allow one to enter a Graduate program in Speech/Language Pathology. The course work for speech is so specific that the classes are just that: specific. Universities that offer graduate degrees in Speech Language Pathology will also offer the prerequisite courses needed. It should be known that this usually involves 1-2 years of extra courses, depending on the University, before you can begin your graduate level courses. The Graduate degree will then take you an additional 2-4 years, again depending on the University. There really is no shortcut to this due to the specific nature of speech language pathology. This is also why there is such a shortage of SLPs nationwide: Students aren't aware of the program when they are in college and don't want to go back and take 5-7 years for the profession and people with established careers find the extra years needed a little too hard to swallow. The field is excellent though and the job security is incredibly rare, especially in today's economy.

Q: Pursuing a graduate degree in a hard science, with a bachelors in Economics?
I am about to complete a BS in Economics. I have been curious lately about the possibility of pursuing a graduate degree of sorts in a hard science. I have been thinking something in the area of energy. What options would I have? I've always felt like the boat has sailed on my chances for getting into a hard science, but it still captivates me, so I thought I'd ask and see what you guys thought were some possibilities.

A: Basically, when you don't come from an existing laboratory science degree you cannot easily transition over. For instance, a chem major who desires to do physics grad work can make the transition by just taking a few extra deficiency courses in undergrad physics. But as econ is a social science, you would not be seen as a likely hard science grad school candidate unless you took many lab science courses as electives (you didn't mention it, so I'm guessing not). So basically your best bet is to take on a second bachelor's degree so you can apply for financial aid and to get the background you need. If you applied to the same school it's unlikely you'll need to take any additional general education core classes so you just focus on the prereqs and major program requirements itself.

Q: Is it better to go to a different school for your undergraduate and graduate degree?
Do schools/employers prefer people who have gone to two different schools for their undergraduate and graduate degree? What if the initial school was a prestigious school?

A: There is no "right" or "wrong" answer to this question. The only advise I would give is if you are staying in academia and want to be a professor, you should have your degrees from different schools If you are staying in industry for your life's work, a good school that is noted to be "tops" in certain subjects such as "aeronautical engineering" it is fine to stay in the same school.

Q: What is the highest paying job, having a graduate degree, with the most freedom?
What job has the most freedom to do what you want? For example, I am at work, but I don't feel like working today. I feel like taking my kids to the zoo. My friend asked me if I want to go to Aspen and ski this week and I get up and go. At the same time I am making at least six figures. What is the highest paying job, having a graduate degree (it would help to specifiy the degree if you know), with the most freedom? Thank you.

A: Most freedom would come with rank or more appropriately: ownership. You should be either investing or positioning yourself for ownership in your own companies. This could be real estate or getting a sbl (small business loan) to buy a franchise. The key is not to run the franchise, but get people to run it on a day to day operation perspective. As a CEO or your own company, you delegate responsibility, and profit off the maintenance of the business mechanism generating money. Once you figure out the franchise and the business model, continue to do that. Remember: don't micromanage, but inspire and incentivize....this way you can take time off whenever you are not growing your empire, and things should stay afloat, theoretically.

Q: Should I go to different colleges for my undergraduate and graduate degree?
My dad told me that he had been advised to go to two different colleges; one for his undergraduate degree, and one for his graduate degree. He said the purpose was to broaden your perspective. I've never heard of this before, is there something wrong with staying at a good school for both degrees and is there an advantage to transferring?

A: Yes, your father is correct. Schools prefer not accepting their own undergrads, it is discouraged. If graduate programs do not keep getting a new supply of students from different programs they run the risk of "inbreeding".....everyone thinking the same. And, it is better for the student...to broaden their perspective. There are always exceptions to the rule.....but it is encouraged to apply at a different school for graduate education. (college prof)

Q: Can I get a graduate degree in veterinary medicine in England and then work in the US?
I live in Georgia in the United States. Can I do my bachelors in biology or animal science in Georgia and then do my graduate school in England to recieve my doctorate of veterinary medicine or is it to complicated to do that meaning would the grades and bachelors degree in US be transferable to England and would the Doctorate degree from England work in the US, ect?

A: In the US a student has to do 2-4 years of undergraduate work and then go to vet school for 4 more years. In england a veterinarian only has the equivalent of a bachelor's degrees. Most of their vets are not doctors. The system of education isn't easily transfered to the US. It would make more sense if you want to work in the US, then do your undergraduate work in England and then pursue your DVM here in the US. If you want to work in England then it's best to do all of your education there. There are some foreign schools that transfer into the US. (at least one is in England). Those schools are listed along with US schools here: http://www.aavmc.org

Q: What is the most valuable graduate degree?
In terms of job prospects, earnings, etc., what would you say is the most valuable graduate graduate degree in America. I thik it's between law, business, or one of the Natural Sciences....my pick, though, would be the MBA. What are your thoughts?

A: A doctorate in Medicine. Drug designers make a lot of money. Unlike regular doctors if something you do screws up, the company you work for takes the brunt of it.

Q: Is a graduate degree or bachlor's degree better for starting a career in sports radio broadcasting?
I already have my degree in business accounting and want to go back to school to get some education to start a career in sports radio. Would a graduate degree or a second bachlor's degree help me more??? Also any suggestions as to what schools have good programs for broadcasting???

A: To be honest, I wouldn't suggest either. If you want a career in broadcasting, its much more about who you know, than what education you've received. I'd strongly suggest looking into getamentor.com. Their program is much more valuable than a degree because you get matched with successful industry individuals that provide on-the-job experience and networking opportunities. Check out the site...my friend is doing it with a film focus and he's doing great. Check out the resource below...good luck buddy.

Q: where can I get a graduate degree and still work?
Or is there no way? is any graduate degree, MBA, of use only to be obtained by quitting work and going to school full time?

A: you can go part time or get your MBA from a online school like Phonex (sp) also there are collges like Cleveland State that offer classes nights and weekends so people can work and do their degree

Q: I have just completed a graduate degree in Mass Communications and am looking for an entry level job?
It is a broad degree and I am having difficulty finding anything that I seem qualified for. I worked full time as a graduate assistant and had a great GPA. My undergrad major was in Psychology and I have experience working in the classroom. I need a better understanding of what jobs I can get and what they entail. Any help would be appreciated (personal accounts or web sites). Thanks

A: As a recent graduate you have access to your school's Office of Career Placement - they should have databases of appropriate jobs for college students and graduates, and other resources to help you get your first job. Don't overlook your professors, as they should also have insights as to where you should be looking and how to get your foot in the door. You may need them as references anyway, so it's a good idea to maintain and cultivate any relationships you have with the faculty.

Q: what's the difference between post-graduate degree and master's degree in the UK?
I'm currently doing a post-graduate degree and wondering whether it might be considered as Master's degree in the UK. thanks

A: I think that would depend on where in the world you are, and what precise qualification you already have and are currently studying for. This is because 'a degree' isn't exactly equivalent all around the world - in the same way as school leavers' qualifications aren't. Each country has its own system. In the UK, a Master's degree is a post-graduate degree involving research. There are other post-graduate qualifications - for example, a post-graduate diploma (which is usually pretty much the taught element of a Master's degree, e.g. a Master's minus the thesis/dissertation). I know when I worked in University admissions we had a book listing international equivalents, but sadly off the top of my head I can't remember all of them! Sorry! Hope this helps - and good luck with your studies.

Q: Is it possible to obtain a graduate degree, or just get into a graduate program, without an undergrad degree?
I am currently working after dropping out of college (a few times) and it has become evident to me that without a graduate degree I will not be able to make the kind of money that I would like to make. I have about two years left to graduate college if I did it straight, but I would rather avoid the extra time and money. Is there a way to get into a grad school without an undergraduate degree? I am an excellent test-taker and have always scored in the 95% or higher in my aptitude tests.

A: There are a few schools with programs that can be done concurrently. Search "five year master's." Typically, you are awarded a bachelors degree along the way, but your program of study won't be over. Your biggest problem will be convincing the admissions board that you can handle a five year master's program. If you find one in your field, start thinking right away about your application essay. It's going to need to explain a lot. Good luck.