The Big Question: What Should You Do After Graduation?

Wondering if a master’s degree is worth it? Let’s find out!

So, you’ve wrapped up your bachelor’s degree. Congrats! You’ve crossed one finish line, but now you’re staring at the next big decision. Should you jump straight into the workforce or head back to school for a master’s degree?

You might be wondering if a master’s degree is even worth it. It depends on your goals, finances, and mindset. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to choose just one path.

The University of New England’s (UNE) online graduate programs allow you to start your career and enter a graduate-level program at the same time. The flexibility of our online programs lets you do both without burning out or feeling like you’re juggling two full-time lives.

Here’s how an online program allows you to work AND earn your graduate degree

1. Online Graduate Programs –  The Best of Both Worlds

An online master’s degree or graduate certificate can give you the flexibility to start applying for jobs or work post-graduation, all while continuing your education.

You don’t have to hit pause on your momentum. With online learning:

• You can continue building your qualifications.
• You stay competitive in a tight job market.
• And you avoid the “what now?” slump that sometimes hits after completing your bachelor’s degree. 

You’ll feel more confident about what’s next by continuing your education with an online master’s degree.

2. Advantages of an Online Master’s Degree

UNE online master’s programs are designed with working students in mind. You may even be surprised by all the benefits offered in an online learning environment.

Our online programs offer:

• Asynchronous classes (watch lectures when it works for you)
• Adjustable course loads (most of our programs allow for shifting to part-time status if needed)
• Project-based learning that connects to real-world work

This flexibility is especially useful if you get a job offer midway through your program. You don’t have to quit school or put your degree on hold. You can simply scale back your course load and keep both!

3. Worried about the Cost of a Master’s? Online Programs Help You Save

Let’s be real, grad school can be expensive and taking time off work to study full-time doesn’t work for everyone.

UNE Online’s programs let you:

• Earn while you learn, which helps offset tuition costs.
• Avoid relocation or commuting expenses.
• Stay out of massive debt by pacing yourself financially.

Plus, having work experience while you earn your master’s can increase your value to employers. You’re building your credentials AND your real-world skills too.

4. Networking Opportunities (Yes, Even Online!)

Worried you might miss out on the networking benefits of a traditional grad program? Never fear, networking opportunities are built into our programs. We’re proud that UNE Online offers: 

• Real opportunities to connect with peers and instructors with optional real-time office hours, discussion boards, and other events throughout the year.
• Access to alumni networks and career services.
• Opportunities to connect with professionals from all over the world.

You’ll never feel alone as a UNE Online student. Most of your classmates are also balancing their career with an online master’s program. You’re all in it together!

5. Stay Career-Ready with a Master’s Degree

You might be wondering, but what can you actually do with a master’s? The truth is, landing your “dream job” right out after your bachelor’s takes time. An online master’s degree or graduate certificate means you’re not waiting around. You’re improving your qualifications, gaining specialized knowledge, and making yourself even more hirable.

And if you land a job that aligns with your degree? Even better. You can apply what you’re learning in real time. 

As a UNE Online student, you’ll also have career readiness tools and resources at your fingertips with access to our Career Ready Program.

Online Graduate Programs are Your Key to Success

Deciding between entering the workforce and going to grad school doesn’t have to be an either/or situation. UNE Online’s Master’s and Graduate Certificate programs let you take both paths. You can keep your career momentum while pursuing your education.

Whether you want to fast-track your growth, explore your interests, or keep your options open, an online graduate degree or certificate from UNE Online can help you do it all!

Bonus Tip

When you’re ready to apply, check out our blog for 4 tips to make your application stand out.