What is an Advanced Degree?
A graduate degree is an example of an advanced degree that goes beyond the baccalaureate-- a master’s or doctorate. Other advanced degrees can include a Juris Doctor (J.D.) for law or an M.D. for medicine. It is a requirement to hold a four-year degree from an accredited program to enter an advanced degree program, including graduate school.
For some professions, an advanced degree is required, such as law, social work, or physical therapy. In other cases, an advanced degree is pursued as a means to develop further expertise in an area, be more competitive on the job market, help advance one’s career, or increase earning potential.
Core Purpose
We recognize that applying to advanced degree and credential programs can be daunting, requiring time, resources, and organization. We aim to help demystify the process of exploring, preparing for, and applying to graduate, professional, and credential programs through sharing information, highlighting tips and strategies, and providing reflective, investigative, and organizational activities.
Program Outcomes
- Learn to verbalize your professional and academic goals
- Identify graduate/law/credential programs of interest
- Summarize application materials and requirements
- Define personal timeline and deadlines
- Name UC Davis resources and support
Learning Outcomes
- Students and alumni will feel more prepared and knowledgeable about graduate/law school and the application processes.
- Students and alumni apply to graduate or law school that aligns with their professional interests.
Explore Graduate and Law School Pathways
Use the resources below to learn what graduate and law school are all about, determine whether they align with your professional goals, and discover how to begin your personal journey toward achieving them.
