Basic Information About Graduate School
- What is a Graduate Degree?
- A graduate degree is a name for any advanced degree beyond a bachelor's, excluding a degree in Law or Medicine (these are called professional degrees). Graduate degrees at Mizzou fall into three categories - master's, doctoral and educational specialist. Mizzou also offers graduate certificates, which are not degrees. Graduate study differs from undergraduate study in a number of significant ways:
- Less general study, more focus on topics within the discipline
- More reading and writing - books, scholarly journals, papers and essays
- Independent research and creative projects
Average income by educational attainment
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
- Why should I go?
- Graduate school isn't the right choice for everyone. The academic work required in graduate school can be demanding. But a graduate degree can boost your earning potential, the amount of freedom and autonomy you have in your job, and your rate of advancement. For many careers, a graduate degree is a necessity.
- What can I study at Mizzou?
- There are over 95 graduate degree programs, and numerous graduate certificates. To see the complete list visit our Graduate Catalog
- What will it cost?
- A credit hour of graduate study for a Missouri resident is $286.90 ($453.90 for out of state residents). You can see an estimate of yearly costs at the MU Cashiers website. Many assistantships are available that provide reduced tuition, as well as fellowships and scholarships. When weighing the costs - both in real dollars and in opportunity - of attending graduate school, it is important to remember that graduate study is an investment in yourself. With a graduate degree, you will most likely earn more money and have more opportunities available to you.
- How can I apply?
- Learn more about the process of applying to graduate schools or begin applying to Mizzou.
- Need more information?
- Visit our prospective students page for links to more information about funding your education, applying to Mizzou, the process of applying, diversity at Mizzou and much more.