5 Ways to Know If You’re Ready for an Online Graduate Program

Taking the plunge into an online graduate program can be intimidating, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. What does it take to start graduate-level studies? Should you apply to a program now, or wait? How do you know if you’re ready? The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) offers some tips to help you decide on the right time to start an online graduate program:

1. You are ready for the next step in your career.
Think about that dream job you’ve always wanted. Is it on your mind more and more? Assess how far you’ve come in your current position and how much more you can grow or accomplish there. Rising to a new position within your field or a different one may become more feasible with a graduate degree.

2. You know what you’re passionate about.
Sometimes you know your passions early in life, and sometimes new ones develop throughout your career. If you feel compelled to learn and work within a certain field, finding a graduate program that matches those interests can fulfill your professional purpose. If you’re not sure about your interests, ask your family and friends. They often know your strengths and what you’d be great at doing.  

3. You have assessed the costs of education.
Starting a graduate program often means making a judgment call about the costs of your degree—whether with money or time. Doing your homework about financial aid opportunities, tuition costs and payment plans such as the one available through UNK, and time needed on coursework will help you decide if a graduate program is a feasible option now.

4. You are sure that you want the degree.
Nothing is tougher about pursuing a graduate degree than if your heart isn’t really in it. One way to determine if you are ready to commit to a degree program is to take a few online courses that can apply toward the degree upon admission to the program later.

5. You have taken a readiness test.
UNK eCampus provides a free resource for students called SmarterMeasure, which helps you assess your readiness to begin an online program. Your results will not guarantee admission into a graduate program, but it sheds light on what to expect in your studies and how to improve the skills you’ll need in an online program.

October 15 is the application deadline to start an online graduate program in the Spring 2018 semester. If you miss the application deadline, you can still apply as a non-degree seeking student. Courses you complete as a non-degree seeking student will apply toward your program once you become fully admitted.

Get started today by choosing an online graduate program that best meets your professional needs through UNK Online.