Alternatives to graduate school

These articles present some of the alternatives (and even alternative soft approaches) to graduate school. You shouldn't rush into a graduate education—especially if one of these alternatives suits your needs better. Topics covered include certification (both within and independent of grad school), professional development workshops and community courses, and taking individual college courses to deepen your knowledge and broaden your skill set.

Other ways to get schooled

• "Community classes and professional development workshops"
  Explains how workshops and local trainings can build the knowledge base you need
• "Individual college and university courses"
  Discusses single courses as a path to specific skills or a preview of grad school
• "Certification as an alternative to, or part of, a graduate degree"
  Shows the benefits of certification, whether on its own or as part of a graduate program

Waiting to enroll in grad school

• "Especially for undergraduates: Reasons to wait"
  Discusses the advantages of not going directly from undergrad to grad school

Related content elsewhere in this resource center

• "Bad reasons to go to grad school: Consider these red flags in your decision"
  Lists some important points to think about if you're unsure that grad school is for you
• "What's the difference between a masters and a doctoral degree?"
  Discusses the uses and distinguishing characteristics of each type of graduate degree
• "Are you financially ready for grad school?"
  Gives a big picture view of the financial considerations facing potential grad students