Advantages of Getting a Master's Degree
Congratulations on choosing to pursue your master's degree!
Earning a master's is a huge step forward for your career and unlocks more job opportunities and the chance to network with peers.
At Mercy University, we offer a wide selection of graduate programs in many different fields. Explore our options and, when you're ready, consider applying to Mercy for graduate school.
Associate's vs. Bachelor's vs. Master's Degree
Earning an associate's, bachelor's or master's degree opens up many different opportunities for you in your career. Here are the key differences between each degree and the specific benefits they offer:
Associate's
Typically earned in two years and focuses on general education requirements. Some careers only require an associate's degree, while others involve getting a bachelor's or higher.
Bachelor's
Four-year degree that allows for more specialization by majoring in a specific subject. A bachelor's often serves as the entry point for most jobs.
Master's
Highly specialized degree that usually takes one to two years after you graduate with your bachelor's. Earning a master's involves more advanced topics and the chance for more fieldwork and other hands-on experience.
What to Look for When Choosing a Graduate Program
Ask yourself these five questions as you search for the right graduate program:
As you check out the course catalog, you want to make sure the program can help you be successful in your ideal career while allowing you to explore your passions. At Mercy, we offer a wide range of programs so you can find a path that challenges and excites you.
Beyond coursework, there's a few other elements to consider as you look at potential graduate programs. For example, if you want to participate in fieldwork, make sure a prospective program offers these opportunities to get involved rather than just focusing on theory. All of Mercy's graduate programs provide hands-on experience so you can gain practical knowledge while still in school.
One way to think about graduate school is a partnership. Your professors are part of that partnership — they want you to succeed as much as you do. At Mercy, our faculty take an active interest in each student's education, and they're happy to connect you with opportunities if you want to enhance your skills further or achieve specific credentials.
Whether you have questions about your coursework or need more guidance about your career path, your professors at Mercy are an invaluable support system.
When weighing the pros and cons of going for your master's, financial aid may likely be on your mind. We keep it simple and streamlined with transparent financial aid and costs and a team that's here to help. From payment plans and grants to tuition remission, there are many opportunities to help make your grad school experience work for you.
In your journey toward your master's degree, you want to know that there are support systems to propel you along the way. At Mercy, we are here to help to equip you with the tools and connect you to the people who can point you in the direction you want to go.
From day one, you're paired with your very own PACT Mentor to make sure you're thriving throughout grad school. One way to think of your PACT Mentor is your own personal cheerleader throughout your time at Mercy.
You can also take advantage of Learning Centers on all campuses for help with coursework, thesis writing, upcoming presentations and more.
Master's Degree Programs at Mercy
Choosing to pursue a master's degree at Mercy University allows you to learn more about a subject you already love with like-minded peers and professors. Our faculty members have years of experience in their fields and are eager to share this knowledge so you can confidently enter the workforce.
Our many graduate programs include: