Although graduate school presents many challenges, the key to finishing graduate school comes from effectively managing time, finding a group of peers, and understanding the personal and professional goals of the student. Furthermore, after understanding the return on investment of obtaining a graduate degree, it is important to know how it applies to the specific field of the educator and degree holder. There are various degrees that enhance K-12 educators and administrators, higher education administrators, and business leaders.

In order to analyze how to overcome the challenges, it is vital to look at how students may have difficulty the best path to overcoming stress, and the necessary goals and objectives of the specific field of study. No matter the program, it is important to consider multiple factors while pursuing a graduate degree.

Time Management

Time management is one of the most important aspects of completing a graduate degree. This comes from a balance of professional and personal goals. Becoming an effective time manager is a natural learning process during graduate school. For many graduate students, this is the first time learning how to make a connection between personal life with friends and family and pursuing a degree that will add to the most beneficial expertise. There are a number of strategies to use time effectively in graduate school. In addition to time management, it is important to analyze how to navigate through financial challenges and how to understand the role of loneliness and stress while pursuing an advanced degree.

Financial Challenges

Paying for graduate school can be a costly endeavor. However, when done properly, there is a great enhancement in professional and practical skills, individual confidence, and overall optimization of the school or organization that the practitioner contributes to. Finding grants, scholarships, and fellowships are precious when finding solutions to ease the financial challenges of graduate school. Additionally, there are tips on how to pay for graduate school out of pocket that allows for the student to maximize finances while dealing with the many different variables that students must go through while pursuing a graduate degree. In addition to financial challenges, there will be times when students will feel lonely and stressed due to life circumstances and career needs. Finding ways to balance mental and emotional health is a big addition to positive learning experiences while attending graduate school. As students continue their advanced degrees, it is important to find ways to effectively deal with mental and emotional health while experiencing loneliness and stress.

Loneliness and Stress

Understanding the impact of graduate school on mental health will give the practitioner ways to decompress and compartmentalize the priorities while pursuing the graduate degree. Experiencing loneliness and stress is a normal part of the college process. Both bachelor and graduate degree students experience stress. Finding educational support groups, community learning centers, and mentors helps in times of loneliness and stress while pursuing a degree. Finding a group of peers and counselors who can identify important needs and potential triggers to both mental and physical health will add value to the personal experience and give the student/practitioner new perspectives that will help future students to come.

Overcoming Graduate School Stress

During the graduate school process, overcoming stress is a key factor in how to complete a specific program, but also provides guidance to others who are pursuing degrees and who are in need of mentorship in the education field. Overcoming graduate school stress comes from setting realistic goals, taking breaks when needed, and celebrating small successes. Whether it is K-12 education, or the exploits of obtaining a graduate degree, taking brain breaks is vitally important. This is whether teaching students, developing curriculum content, or completing a graduate degree program for professional development.

According to articles by the Centers for Disease Control and the American Heart Association, common remedies include:

• Taking time to unwind
• Establishing positive self-talk
• Staying physically active
• Having a group of peers to talk to

Graduate school challenges time management, personal exploits, and long-term career goals. However, by identifying the best way to deal with challenges, finding a group of peers, and experienced mentors, the graduate student will grow and develop as a student and an effective practitioner in the field. This comes with time and experience but leads to the enhancement of the individual, the education field, and the future investments of students in the education and business field and abroad.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

The post Graduate School Challenges and Powering Through appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

When applying to graduate school, it’s common to put together a portfolio of documents which showcase your background and experiences. Portfolios often contain a resume, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose essay, and official university transcripts. But did you know that many graduate schools (but not all!) also require an interview as part of their application process? Don’t be caught off guard! Research the requirements for your school and program (more on that below).

Interviews will look different depending on the school and program for which you are applying, but they generally share some similar components. Your interview might be with one person or with a panel of staff members from the college and will probably contain a variety of questions regarding your program and subject area of study, as well as your background (personal and academic) and your goals and experiences. The best way to ace your grad school interview is by preparing for it beforehand so that you know what to expect and are comfortable answering the questions. The more you think about the questions and prepare your answers ahead of time, the less nervous you’ll be and the more likely you’ll respond with answers that appropriately reflect your qualifications.

Mastering Your Graduate School Interview

1. Do your research.

I can’t stress this enough: research the school, the program, the classes, the instructors, etc. What are your reasons for wanting to be accepted? You want to make sure you’re comfortable when you’re discussing why this particular school and program is a good fit for you. Your interviewer will be impressed if you can name specific details, such as class descriptions and professor names that stand out to you. Make sure you’re knowledgeable about hot topics like the ethics and social values of the school, as well as any important accolades and current events. The admissions committee will be happy that you did your “homework” prior to the interview, and it will set a good precedent for your academic abilities.

2. Practice common questions.

After doing your research, this is the next most important step to prepare for your graduate school interview. Interviews can be extremely nerve-wracking, but the more you prepare, the more comfortable you will feel. You can prepare by studying lists of common interview questions and then practicing how you would respond to them. You don’t want to sound rehearsed, like you’re reading off a paper sheet, but you want to ensure your responses reflect your qualifications and experience.

It’s much easier to do this if you brainstorm responses ahead of time instead of trying to think on the fly. Some common interview questions are:

• Tell me about yourself.
• Why did you choose to apply for our program?
• What are your career goals?
• How can you contribute to our program?

3. Showcase your research and accomplishments.

I’m sure you’ve been thinking about how you can benefit from a graduate program, but your interview team will be interested in learning what you can contribute to their program as well. The interview is a great time to highlight any research you’ve been doing and any academic accomplishments.

This is another reason why it’s important to think through your responses ahead of time; you might forget some key achievements if you’re nervous and trying to think on the spot. Your training and skills are absolutely relevant to the program for which you are applying, and they are also directly correlated with the credibility of the university. Once you graduate you will be a spokesperson for the university in your chosen field, and so they need to see that you will help them to build their brand positively.

4. Prepare your own questions.

Just because you’re being interviewed doesn’t mean that you’re the only person who should be asking questions. It’s completely acceptable, and encouraged even, to prepare a list of questions ahead of time that you want to have answered by the university team. This will help you get a better feel for the school and the program and show that you are invested in your educational future.

Here is a list of common questions you might want to ask during your interview, including:

• Do you offer any scholarships?
• What makes your program unique?
• Do you have any mentoring opportunities?
• What are graduates of the program doing now?

5. Showcase your communication skills.

Communication skills are important for pretty much every job and educational opportunity, and participating in an interview is a great way to showcase yours. Most likely your interviewer will be looking to see if you can communicate both verbally and nonverbally, as well as note how friendly you are, whether or not you demonstrate respect and empathy for others, and how confident you are, among other things.

This will help them determine how well you will be able to follow directions, work with others, and represent the school. You want to make sure you sit up straight, look whoever is speaking in the eye, speak clearly, listen and pay attention when it’s not your turn to talk, and otherwise engage in the conversation.

6. Know your goals.

Know your “why.” Separate yourself from the other applicants by being confident in your career goals and communicating them effectively. Explain to the team exactly why you want to join their program, and what you plan to do once you graduate with a degree. This will set you apart from other students who may be more non-committal about their future plans and who may not be taken as seriously by the interview panel. It will also demonstrate your commitment to the program and to your future career. Follow these tips and you’ll be sure to ace your graduate school interview!

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

The post A Guide to Mastering Your Graduate School Interview appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

This includes both federal and private loans. In today’s global market, obtaining an education is important both for individuals and for families. Finding effective solutions to cut costs and pay for graduate school out of pocket is crucial to reducing stress and being proactive with finances and professional development.

Understanding the graduate school financial aid process is important for finding resources and analyzing which situation is best for the student. Paying for graduate school out of pocket can come from personal cash reserves, obtaining a scholarship, or a grant. School is a lifetime investment, and the student should consider their degree an investment to pay off over time.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, graduates with a master’s degree make up to $1,800 per week, while those with professional degrees above a master’s or doctorate earn at least $2,000-$2,200 per week. Additionally, the Social Security Administration reports that men with graduate degrees make over $1.6 million and women make over $1.1 million dollars over their lifetime. In order to get the most beneficial return on investment it is important to know the most effective ways to pay for graduate school out of pocket.

How to Pay for Graduate School Out of Pocket

Finding Affordable Graduate Programs

When looking for graduate programs, it is essential to find a program that will give the student practical knowledge and skills to be an asset in their career field but also affordable. Often, prospective students go for degrees from schools with a high national reputation, but at an even higher price. Usually, the end result is the student obtaining a large amount of debt whether the degree is completed or not.

The solution to finding affordable graduate programs is finding programs that are low cost or that pay for the student on a tuition-free basis. Oftentimes, instead of pursuing a master’s, some programs provide free tuition or pay a significant amount of fees when the student pursues a doctorate degree. In the US and World News Report article 7 Strategies to Pay for Graduate School,  the article details multiple ways to find affordable programs and programs that can be paid for by an employer, graduate school scholarships or fellowships.

In addition to these programs, students can take a more traditional route to pay for graduate school as well. Additionally, some students have joined the military in order to pay for schooling. For many military personnel, the G.I. Bill provides a way for students to serve their country and have the U.S. government help pay for school. Finding affordable programs comes from the combination of personal goals, having a structured support system, and planning for the long term.

Personal Cash Reserves

When looking at school as an investment it is important to use the money wisely to support the personal educational business. For example, parents can contribute to what is called a 529 College Savings Plan. This is a plan where parents put money into an account to save for when their children attend college in the future. This plan is tax-free and offers benefits to parents who save.

Another way to save money is to stay at home with a parent or an extended family member. Instead of paying for room and board or for extra tuition expenses, many students who have been successful at paying for school out of pocket have saved money for the long term or save money by paying as they go through school while staying at home with family.

Scholarships and Grants 

Actively seeking out scholarships and grants is important for paying for school out of pocket. Many graduate programs offer scholarships and grants to pay for school. These are programs where institutions, universities, and non-profits provide funding to students who have financial hardships when it comes to paying for graduate school. In a video provided by Dave Ramsey’s, describing How to Pay for College, the Dave Ramsey team describes ways to go to college debt-free.

The video describes how to use scholarships and grants to pay for college. Furthermore, learning how to make a proper college choice is essential to obtaining a degree without any debt. Identifying which major is profitable for the student is important. Researching degree programs that make an impact on the student personally and professionally, but also others, will be most beneficial.

Do Your Research

Researching which schools and degree paths are best for the student is important. Taking time to research and analyze affordable programs, have a positive career outlook, and have opportunities for funding will help cut costs. Considering why to go to graduate school is important in determining the outcomes of the graduate program. Understanding the need for a graduate degree, the impact on the student personally, and the value the degree will bring to the career and family life are all factors to consider.

With proper research, focusing on affordable programs, and seeking out extra funding, there is a path to obtaining a debt-free degree. This will allow the graduate to learn more about personal finance, educational opportunities, and how to show others how to live and learn debt-free.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

The post Tips on How to Pay for Graduate School Out of Pocket appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

Graduate school is a challenging journey that demands vast amounts of dedication, perseverance, and commitment. As graduate students navigate through advanced courses, research projects, and other academic responsibilities, the importance of organization becomes crucial. Graduate students are typically those that are maintaining a full-time career while furthering their education.

Although most graduate schools are understanding of this, the workload from both employment and college courses can be extremely overwhelming and draining if not managed properly. In addition to this, many graduate students are also juggling family obligations and responsibilities from household duties, the raising of children, and sustaining healthy relationships. Because graduate students “wear many different hats,” it is imperative that they employ organizational skills to better manage and maintain their personal and professional lives.

Staying Organized in Graduate School

To assist in success in graduate school and beyond, let us explore several tips and strategies that will aid in the organization process.

Time Management and Study Schedule

One of the cornerstones of organization in graduate school is efficient time management. With the multitude of academic tasks and work or home responsibilities, it can be overwhelming for students to keep track of deadlines and commitments. This is where a well-structured study schedule comes into play. Creating a study schedule allows graduate students to allocate time for different subjects, assignments, and research activities.

By setting aside specific time blocks for studying, research, and personal activities, students can achieve a balanced lifestyle that prevents burnout and enhances productivity. Additionally, graduate students can maintain a healthy work, school, and home life balance. As a mother and doctoral student, I set aside time each night after my daughter went to bed to work on my courses. Spending quality time with my child is extremely important to me, and I did not wish to sacrifice any time with her if at all possible. This study schedule allowed me to uphold my relationship with her and have quiet time to work or study each night.

To-Do Lists 

To-do lists are extremely useful tools for managing daily tasks and assignments. They provide a clear overview of what needs to be accomplished and help prioritize activities based on their deadlines or importance. These lists also assist in ensuring that nothing is missed or forgotten! As graduate students juggle coursework and other various duties, to-do lists serve as direct, visual reminders that keep them on track and focused on their goals. To-do lists also help direct the topic of work to be completed per a study schedule to ensure that no time is wasted or utilized incorrectly.

A Designated Study Space

An organized environment is optimal for continued success and progress in graduate school or any learning endeavor. A cluttered or disorganized study environment can hinder productivity and increase stress levels. Designating a dedicated and organized study space is crucial for effective learning. A clutter-free and well-organized study space promotes focus, concentration, and a conducive atmosphere for studying. This space should be equipped with all necessary materials, resources, and technology to facilitate efficient learning and research.

Digital Organization and Online Calendars

In today’s digital age, online tools and applications offer exceptional advantages for organizing personal and professional commitments. For instance, online calendars provide a centralized platform to track assignments, deadlines, meetings, and other important events. They can be synced across devices, ensuring that students never miss an important date. Furthermore, digital tools allow for the integration of reminders, which can be set in advance to notify students of upcoming due dates and tasks. This digital organization not only enhances time management but also reduces the likelihood of overlooking critical deadlines.

Break Up Tasks for Efficiency

Graduate school assignments and projects often involve intricate details and substantial research. Breaking these tasks into smaller, manageable components enhances efficiency and prevents procrastination. This approach not only makes the workload appear less daunting but also allows students to focus on one step at a time which leads to higher-quality work. Breaking up tasks also plays into the importance of time management as assignments reach completion through planned out steps rather than at the last minute!

Long-Term Planning: Beyond the Immediate

While daily and weekly organization is essential, long-term planning is equally vital for graduate students. Long-term planning involves setting all-encompassing goals for the semester, year, or even the entire graduate program. This can include academic, research, and personal objectives. By creating a roadmap for their academic journey, students can allocate resources, time, and effort more effectively. Long-term planning helps graduate students visualize their progress, identify potential challenges, and adjust their strategies accordingly.

Personal Growth and Balance

Beyond the academic benefits, organization in graduate school contributes to personal growth and work-life balance. When students effectively manage their time and tasks, they can allocate quality time to personal activities, hobbies, and self-care. This balance is instrumental in preventing burnout, enhancing mental health, and fostering a well-rounded and fulfilling graduate school experience.

It is apparent that organization plays an indispensable role in the success of graduate students. The complex demands of advanced coursework, research projects, and academic responsibilities require effective strategies for time management, study techniques, and task organization.

Whether through structured study schedules, comprehensive to-do lists, dedicated study spaces, or digital tools, organization empowers graduate students to excel academically while maintaining personal well-being. By embracing organizational practices, students embark on a transformative journey that not only propels them towards academic achievement, but it also nurtures their personal growth and prepares them for the challenges of their current or chosen professions.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

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There are two general paths to obtaining a superintendent’s certification, the first is obtaining an Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) in Educational Leadership degree, and the second is achieving a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) or Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Educational Administration or Educational Leadership. Pursuing a graduate degree for school superintendency expands the knowledge, curriculum and instructional aspect, and the degree holder’s financial and human resources leadership.

Skills I Learned in my Superintendent Licensure Program

School administrators have either a master’s degree or a doctorate in education. School superintendents have either a masters, educational specialist, or doctorate. However, there has to be a state-issued license for superintendency. Additionally, states have an exam that has to be passed in order to receive the credential. There are testing agencies that have exams for potential superintendent license holders, however, the most common is the PRAXIS School Superintendent Assessment 6991. The skills I learned in my superintendent licensure program were very useful.

The pandemic has changed school principal jobs and superintendent responsibilities. However, to be sure that students and communities have a high quality of learning, and school officials who help their teachers and students reach their full potential, there must be continued professional development. Learning how to navigate burnout as an administrator can be difficult, but enhancing skills and collaborating with school administrators from the building and the district level brings a better perspective when leading schools and districts.

Classes in the program included topics on:

• Information Management Systems
• Data-Driven Leadership
• Education Law/Policy/Ethics
• Curriculum and Instructional Leadership
• Diversity and Global Development
• Superintendents and Executive Leadership

These are a few courses that gave me an expert level of understanding the perspective of both a building-level school leader as well as a district office administrator and superintendent.

How my Superintendent Licensure Made Me a Better Administrator

Obtaining a superintendent licensure not only prepares you to be a district administrator but it also prepares you to look at the K-12 system from a broader point of view. Classes for a superintendent licensure give the practitioner expanded knowledge of school building administrator’s duties and goals and how to make an impact with the community and district. Most superintendents and district office personnel have been previous building administrators.

By obtaining a superintendent licensure best practice from building level experiences combined with networking, communication skills, and understanding school board policies and community development are all ways that obtaining a superintendent licensure while facilitating best practices with educational administration impacts a community positively. There are multiple reasons to obtain a license for superintendency, all of which are benefits personally and professionally.

Why I Recommend Superintendent Licensure

When considering an advanced degree it is important to know which graduate concentration is best for you. My personal superintendent licensure included completing an educational specialist degree and a doctor of education. Becoming a superintendent involves having a goal and vision for the future of student learning, how to support building administrators and teachers, emphasizing a high-quality education, and being a role model and leader for the community. For those who aspire to district and cabinet level positions, a day in the life of a superintendent is different daily.

Learning from an educational specialist or doctorate in education program with a concentration in superintendency teaches the practitioner to think globally, focus on learning outcomes, and be an education advocate for teachers, students, parents, and administrators. According the American Association of School Administrators (AASA), the average salary for a district superintendent is $156,648. Although there are salary ranges higher for superintendents in large urban areas, the pay for these educational executives reflects the diverse range of skills they bring and need for educational change.

Obtaining a superintendent licensure gives the educational practitioner the skills to work with business, educational, and community leaders. This allows for the growth of students, school culture, and the professional development of the educator. There are many benefits to obtaining a superintendent license or degree, however, the skills, and techniques learned vary with the individual and add value to any school district or educational organization.

Interested in elevating your career as an educator? Check out our 200+ available masters, doctorates, endorsements, and certifications to advance your career today!

The post How My Superintendent Certification Made Me a Better Administrator appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

One thing is for certain — for those that wish to take on the advanced challenge of receiving a higher-level degree than that of an undergraduate, several skills are necessary, including the ability to critically think. Critical thinking is one of these skills that will help you dive further into your academic studies. The ability to think critically is a powerful tool that can help you make sense of the information that is presented, making you more confident in your decision-making.

Before we examine why critical thinking plays such an important role in grad school, we must first understand what critical thinking really is. Critical thinking is a process that involves analyzing, questioning, and exploring information to reach a deeper understanding that will help you make an informed decision. It requires curiosity, logic, and observation. Critical thinkers make conscious decisions based on information, reflection, and evidence.

The Role Critical Thinking Plays in Graduate School

Critical thinking skills, in general, can encompass several smaller level abilities and traits that will behoove you as you embark on a graduate level program.

Self-Direction

First, one skill needed is self-direction. Don’t rush into a program without spending time thinking critically about the type of program that will benefit your current employment status, what will be studied or specialized in, and what type of plan will be followed.

For many, graduate school takes place in a time where other commitments are real and important, such as work, family, and other engagements that may differ from the typical college life schedule. Great critical thinking skills can also help with prioritizing what is important, allowing for excellent time management skills. This can help with balancing stress management, which is sure to come during a graduate program. Critically thinking about all the options surrounding a program and thinking through the course of action will set you up for success in the end.

Once enrolled in a graduate program, there will be numerous opportunities to utilize critical thinking skills, which will help in future employment down the road, as more and more employers are seeking applicants who can critically think “on their feet.” One of the first aspects of critical thinking in graduate school is the connection between critical thinking and great analytical skills.

As you begin your graduate studies you may notice that graduate school demands much more than just memorizing facts or information. It requires higher-level thinking to understand complex theories and multifaceted problems. Being a critical thinker enables you to dissect new concepts and devise solutions. It helps to foster a deeper understanding of what you are learning.

Academic Research

Part of your graduate studies will be to conduct academic research. This is to help increase your knowledge of a specific subject matter or concept. Having the ability to think critically is crucial for this research because you will need to research, experiment, analyze, and draw conclusions to solve complex problems. Critical thinking will help you formulate questions, interpret results, and propose solutions.

Graduate courses often involve in-depth discussions or debates about a specific subject matter or theory. Critical thinking will help you analyze or even challenge these classroom discussions enabling you to meaningfully contribute your ideas and opinions. Because critical thinking helps you understand information better by evaluating and critiquing arguments, you will be better able to express your ideas clearly, therefore enhancing your learning experience.

Further Career Prep

Lastly, graduate school prepares you for your career. Using well thought out thinking, equips you with the skills you need to make informed decisions about your future. It enables you to look at things from all angles, objectively assess them, and make a well-informed decision. It will also help you adapt to any circumstance and meet any challenge with confidence and a logical mindset.

Analytical Skills

Analyzing a difficult concept, finding ways to solve different problems, and evaluating and understanding theories are ways that critical thinking skills can be strengthened. Next, following along with analytical skills is the ability to use critical thinking skills and analytical skills to develop and create new and unique ways to find solutions to problems. In educational graduate programs, particularly at the doctoral level, this is the main challenge for graduate school students.

Their challenge is to often analyze a current practice or policy in education and make it better for the students, staff, teachers, or community in general. Great critical thinking skills are imperative for problem solving, as education today calls for those who can think outside the box and consider different angles and solutions to existing problems.

Evaluating Arguments

Next, critical thinking skills play a pivotal role in evaluating arguments and developing research proficiency to provide evidence to back up necessary justification for graduate school challenges. Too often today arguments exist with little to no empirical evidence to support any side, with people typically throwing away common sense and critical thinking simply because one side doesn’t agree with the other. In graduate school programs where ideas are challenged for the greater good, being able to evaluate and explain your position on a stance with research-based evidence is a great foundation.

Effective Communication

Many graduate school programs today challenge students to appropriately interpret and assess information as they come across it and not simply focus on how to gain access to information. This goes hand in hand with effective communication, which is only heightened by critical thinking skills. Having great critical thinking skills can sharpen your thought process and enhance your communication skills, leading to well thought out ideas and statements which are clear, concise, and evidence based.

Why Critical Thinking Skills Are Essential for Educators

Developing the ability to think critically can be a superpower for educators. It can not only help you teach better, but it can also help students learn better. Here are a few ways critical thinking skills have emerged as an important tool for educators.

It Helps You Make Decisions

Critical thinking helps you deal with any problems that may come your way. As an educator, you will encounter a plethora of dilemmas as well as have to handle sensitive issues or make decisions that may impact your students. Critical thinking skills will help you navigate these challenges as well as help you weigh your options to make the best-informed choice for your students.

It Makes You an Effective Educator

Teachers with strong critical thinking skills are better equipped to make effective decisions that will enhance student learning. When you have a strong skillset in critical thinking, you will approach your teaching with a deeper understanding. This will help you identify effective strategies to use, make data-driven decisions, adapt methods to different learning styles, and create engaging learning experiences for your students.

Facilitates Your Ability to Adapt to Change

Education is constantly evolving from new technologies to new teaching strategies, as an educator you will need to stay up to date with any new emerging education regularly. With these frequent changes, having critical thinking skills will help you determine which technologies and teaching methods are best suited for your students and your classroom.

Enhances Your Problem-Solving Skills

Educators encounter many challenges in the classroom, such as managing student behavior, adapting curriculum to suit the needs of individual students, and learning new technology. Nevertheless, possessing the toolkit of critical thinking skills empowers you to assess these challenges objectively and develop solutions that will change these problems.

Stimulates Your Curiosity

Critical thinking can stimulate your curiosity igniting your desire to dig deeper into concepts, theories, teaching methods, or other subject matter. It can inspire you to expand your knowledge and craft as an educator. By asking questions of yourself or your students you are fostering an environment of curiosity and lifelong learning.

Fosters Student Engagement

Critical thinking skills play an important role in cultivating student engagement by encouraging students to actively participate in classroom discussions and activities. By implementing critical thinking into your lessons, you will prompt students to think critically, therefore interacting in a more meaningful way with the concepts that are being taught to them. By emphasizing critical thinking, you are encouraging students to connect to what they are learning, making the material more engaging.

We All Use Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is vital, not only for you as a graduate student but also as an educator. Not only does your education and career require it, but you will also use it in your life. It will help you understand and analyze information in the news, help you make informed decisions in your day-to-day life, and maybe even help you understand yourself better so you can reach your goals. By applying thoughtful thinking to your education, career, and life, you may feel more confident in the decisions you make.

Open-Mindedness

Typically, graduate school leads students to times where their opinions may be challenged, and having effective communication can help students articulate their thoughts and ultimately persuade others in arguments or defense of their ideas. Finally, critical thinking skills in graduate school help foster a sense of open-mindedness, which leads to a greater impact on learning, and allows for more productive and organic conversations to take place that can eventually lead to a better sense of understanding.

Ultimately, critical thinking is an important trait to possess, regardless of your position. As you consider entering graduate school, take stock of your current skills and identify if critical thinking is a part of your repertoire. If not, graduate school programs can enhance that deficiency, but it will come with time and effort. As educators, whether a teacher or administrator, it is incredibly important to have critical thinking skills because we are a great influence on a child’s future.

School leaders must have a deeper understanding and practical knowledge of learning science, their area of expertise of topic, and ethical critical thinking skills. Learning new skills and pedagogy in graduate school can help when working with young people as we help them navigate their personal lives and learning journeys. Educational leaders face a myriad of differences in students, and having critical thinking skills only helps to profoundly impact our future society.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

Reference:
Treffinger, D. (2008, Summer). Preparing creative and critical thinkers. ASCD Thinking Skills NOW, 65.

The post The Importance of Critical Thinking Skills in Graduate School appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

Research Programs/Specializations 

Not all graduate schools (and programs) are created equal and considering the amount of time and money you’ll be investing in a program, you really owe it to yourself to do your research ahead of time to ensure you find a school and a program that’s a good fit for you. Make sure you choose a graduate program when applying to graduate school that will lead to your preferred career. You may also want to look into the faculty (what are their teaching styles and preferred assessment methods, where have they been published, do their values align with your own?) as well as the location of the school and how much it costs.

Fees especially can vary greatly from school to school, so do your homework and ensure that you can afford the program before you go to the trouble of applying to graduate school. In addition, we recommend you do some research into the course structure of the program (is it entirely online, hybrid, or in person? How many classes are you expected to take at one time?) You’ll never regret doing this work prior to applying to graduate school; you’ll only regret NOT doing it if you get accepted into a program and find out later that it’s not a good fit for you.

Start Early 

Timing is crucial when it comes to applying for graduate school, so you’ll want to begin the application process well in advance to ensure you have enough time to prepare. Most likely you’ll have to send in various supporting documents along with the actual application, and these can take some time to gather and submit. You should allow up to eight weeks for official transcripts and exam scores to arrive, and it’s polite to give your professional recommenders at least four to six weeks to submit their letters (more on that later).

In addition, you’ll probably need to write a personal statement and/or a statement of purpose essay, and that’s not something you want to rush through. Finally, if you plan on pursuing financial aid, you should allow yourself at least four to six weeks to familiarize yourself with that process and complete the necessary paperwork. Applying to graduate school is definitely not something you can do in a weekend, so plan accordingly!

Prepare for Standardized Testing 

Some schools will require you to pass a standardized test, such as the GRE, before admittance into a program. Prior to applying you’ll want to ascertain if this is a requirement for the university you’d like to attend, and if it is, plan to prepare far in advance. The GRE, especially, is not a test that you can cram for in a weekend. You’ll need time to research the test format, determine your baseline and target scores, study GRE vocabulary, take practice tests, etc. It’s also a good idea to research the school to find out the average testing score that students earn who have been accepted into the program so you have an idea of where you stand and how much you need to prep. Standardized test scores can make or break your admission chances, so don’t sleep on this requirement when applying to graduate school.

Request Strong Letters of Recommendation 

“Letters of recommendation are excellent when it comes to showing an admissions committee why you would be a good candidate for a program. They are an important piece of the puzzle when it comes to demonstrating the full picture of who you are as a person: a student, an employee, and a contributing member of society.”

You should ask people who know you well in a professional capacity, who can attest to your work ethic, integrity, and other factors that will be important to a graduate admissions committee when applying to graduate school. Ensure you give them enough time to write the letter (four to six weeks are recommended) and share any requirements for information or templates put forth by the university.

Write a Strong Personal Statement 

The personal statement component of a graduate school application can be particularly stressful if you’re not a fan of writing. However, this is not an area to skimp on or leave for the last minute. A personal statement essay is a great way to show the admissions committee your personality, and to distinguish yourself from their other applicants.

Prepare for the Interview

Does your school require an interview prior to admission? If so, similar to the personal statement essay, this could be a great way to set yourself apart from the crowd IF you interview well. One way to ensure you do is by researching and practicing the interview process. Familiarize yourself with common questions that you might be asked and think through your responses to them. Here are some sample questions and answers you can use to give yourself a head start. If you typically become nervous during interviews, practice calming techniques like deep breathing strategies. The more you practice, the more natural you’ll feel, and the less nervous you’ll be.

Have your friends and colleagues act as the interviewee and then give you constructive feedback on how you can improve. You’ll want to appear confident, even if you’re nervous, and practice is a great way to truly feel confident in your abilities. Also, be mindful of your nonverbal communication, such as eye contact and body language. Make sure you look the person in the eyes when you shake their hand, sit up straight throughout the interview, smile, and be present.

Follow these tips when applying to graduate school and you’ll be accepted into in no time!

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

The post Tips for Applying to Graduate School appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

For students in graduate programs, the outcomes will be increased research skills, understanding of specific methodologies, and ways to apply research in a practical and professional environment. Depending on the student’s personal and professional life, staying engaged can be difficult. Some students may begin a program immediately after obtaining an undergraduate degree. Others may have to juggle a work and life balance between family and friends. Having a strategic approach to studying in graduate school will make the process more comfortable and lead to success. In order to understand what will make the graduate school experience a positive one, it is important to know what is most effective to do while studying in graduate school.

Find a Support Network

Many graduate school programs have cohorts of students that will be together during the course of the program. There are various degrees each with their own method of delivering content. Some programs may be traditional brick-and-mortar, online, or hybrid. Finding a support network of like-minded individuals is important because it is a way to connect with others, form study groups, and build a network of colleagues that will be useful professionally after graduation. Additionally, establishing a support system allows for others to exchange ideas and complete projects together. Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) are used both in K-12 education and higher education. 

Working in professional learning communities allows for enhanced knowledge, collaboration with peers, and an avenue to allow for each member to contribute to the project and learning endeavor. Furthermore, by establishing a support network in graduate school, the student will be able to have access to further resources whether it be research material, new examples of best practices, or mentorship by a former graduate student professor.

Set SMART Goals

Goal setting is a fundamental part of completing a graduate school program also. Setting goals during the graduate school process is crucial for having a successful path to completing a program. The goals should be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time Based (SMART). Creating a chart and planning goals can increase efficiency with schoolwork. By partnering with colleagues and fellow students, a collaborative effort can be made as a group with smart goals.

Furthermore, within the graduate program, as a final project there will be a thesis or a capstone project that is needed for completion. In order to complete the program, it is important to foster good study habits and find the most effective way to research information, analyze data, and present findings to the professor for the culminating project. Along with establishing SMART goals, having good study habits along with establishing a healthy balance are sure to foster a successful and positive graduate school experience.

Study Habits 

There are a variety of graduate school programs with many concentrations. Choosing the right graduate school concentration combines both personal and professional interest. Maintaining a consistent graduate study plan along with finding the most effective time of the day and week is important. When establishing a study plan it is important to consider whether the student has a full-time job, is raising a family, or has a new learning curve with the more advanced graduate school curriculum. There is a key to getting the most out of studying sessions by incorporating effective time management, turning in assignments on time, staying organized, and finding study groups. 

Establishing a School and Work-Life Balance 

The article Five Tips to Achieve Your Optimal School-Work-Life Balance  emphasizes leaning on professional contacts, taking advantage of options to make work easier, and creating time to relax and reflect on learning. Establishing an effective school and work life balance is a fundamental part of completing a graduate program. Many students have families or full-time jobs while they are in graduate school. Consider planning specific days of the week to complete assignments and prioritize time to spend with family and friends.

Maintaining a healthy life is overwhelmingly important both mentally and physically. It is important to be self-aware of any factors that may add to any stress. Planning, relying on a support system, and working with a group of peers will make the graduate school experience worthwhile. By finding a support network, setting goals, establishing study habits, and focusing on a positive school and work balance, the path to completing a graduate degree is a guarantee. Whether a student is working towards a pay increase, learning a new research skill, or a career change, obtaining a graduate degree is a rewarding experience. 

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

The post How to Stay Engaged in Your Graduate School Studies appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

Once the finances, workload, time, and family considerations have been decided, then your decision may come down to whether you qualify for the graduate school you want to attend. Sometimes the logistics involved will help make the decisions for you.

There are two different routes to discuss in the article, and in the end, we will circle back to how this impacts the educator. The first route is how graduate school is handled in general and what work experience is required for graduate school. And in the end, much of this will come down to which graduate school you are interested in going to. Some programs like to see that individuals have growth and experience on their resume to a certain extent.

Another consideration with work experience regarding admission to graduate school is the level of work experience. Some schools will want to see a track record of success, and others will just want verification that you are employed…it just depends on where you want to go to graduate school.

Investopedia’s article GPA vs. Work Experience in Grad School Applications notes six easy ways that graduate admissions officers judge applications: undergrad transcripts, graduate test results, resume with work history, letters of recommendation, an essay or statement of purpose, and an interview. Thus, work experience carries some weight.

It is worth noting that some of the top graduate school programs such as Stanford University and New York University do not require work experience.

Lastly, many articles were read in the research for this article where a lower GPA was given less weight when the applicant had good work experience on their resume.

How Work Experience Prior to Grad School Is Different for Educators

Things are a little different in the education world. It was clear in the research for this article that unless you were pursuing a professional job in higher education, some work experience was needed for graduate programs. Many graduate educator programs are not as concerned with the quality of work over a period of time, but whether or not one is employed and meets the qualifications for the programs.

For example, in Texas, if you are entering a graduate program for a principal’s certification, you must either complete or have completed three years of teaching. This coincides with the requirements to be a principal in the State of Texas. This trend was consistent in many other online programs around the nation also.

This dovetails into the next consideration of how the need for work experience for graduate school is different for educators. Many of the jobs you would want to pursue with your graduate degree, have their own work experience requirements. Similar to as mentioned above, you have to have three years of teaching experience before you can go into administration in Texas. Being a counselor, librarian, most technology specialists’ jobs and central office positions will have requirements at or above what a graduate school would call for. Thus, in theory, even if the graduate school did not require the work experience, the job you are interested in pursuing would.

How My Own Work Experience Helped My Graduate School Experience 

Each graduate program I have been affiliated with attempts to give you relevant and real-world application assignments. With your work experience, what you are already doing in your job will likely be used in graduate work.

In Texas, principal program candidates have to complete a certain number of practicum hours as part of their certification. Take the profile of a candidate who is a department head, helps to run a student organization, plans professional learning communities, and perhaps mentor young teachers…the work they are already doing not only is similar the work of an administrator, but it would qualify for the work they would be asked to do for their graduate program. You also see this in the counselor program and superintendent programs.

From my personal experience in working on my superintendent certification last year, I work with new teachers across the district, I service on district committees (safety, admin), I work with transportation, and I have other district projects that could not be done without my work experience, and I was able to count those practicum hours toward my graduate work.

Is Work Experience Required for Graduate School?

Being the literal person I am, the answer to the question, “is work experience required for Graduate school is “no.” If you don’t have the work, you can find a graduate school that will work with you.

However, when you weigh the pros and cons of this…the answer should be yes. With work experience, you get into better programs, your work experience will help you get the practicum hours you need to complete your graduate hours and then eventually obtain the job you want to pursue.

Especially in education, your work experience can be leveraged toward a graduate degree and is a building block in your career.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs  to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

The post Is Work Experience Required for Graduate School? appeared first on Graduate Programs for Educators.

There are various funding opportunities for students, and each has its own benefit depending on the needs of the student. The federal government may offer loans, while many schools provide the opportunity for fellowships and scholarships. Setting a plan for research funding, analyzing degree programs and future career opportunities can help make sound decisions.

FAFSA 

The Free Application for Federal Student (FAFSA) gives families and students resources when seeking financial aid. There are questions you should ask yourself before applying to graduate school. These include what career aspirations do you have after completing graduate school, which type of funding can you receive for graduate school, and which concentration do you want to major in? There are a few differences in filing for financial aid for graduate school as compared to undergrad. Furthermore, funding opportunities include grants, scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and loans.

Planning out the finances for a specific degree program and comparing which universities and schools will support your goals is vital. Identifying funding through FAFSA will determine which option is best for you. Additionally, speaking to colleagues and peers who have moved past the undergraduate level to the graduate level can help determine the best course of action. Knowing how FAFSA differs for graduate school comes with knowing the difference between grants and fellowships and how tuition reimbursement, loans, and fellowships will make the most effective impact on your future.

Grants 

Obtaining a grant is a great way to fund the college process. There are different types of grants depending on the need. When it comes to graduate school students can benefit from grants. An example is when an individual student receives a grant to take specific classes or temporary funding for a research program. Another example of how a graduate student can benefit from a grant is when the college or university has a fellowship or assistantship offered through a program. Both a fellowship and assistant provide funding opportunities to graduate students, but they differ in the manner of the aid to the student. Scholarships are the most well-known method of supplying students with funds in undergrad and graduate school. There are scholarships that vary depending on a student’s race, gender, geographic location, or academic field.

Scholarships 

Knowing how to find scholarships for graduate school can make the difference between having financial struggles or having most, if not all, of a graduate degree program paid for. Multiple scholarship programs provide support systems to graduate students on both the masters and doctoral levels. The PhD Project is a system of universities and organizations designed to enhance diversity within the business field. With the Ph.D. Project, women, minority students, and students of color can get funding, mentorship, and resources to obtain a Ph.D. in a business field. For graduate students who want to pursue a Doctor of Education, the Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) collaborates with over 130 schools of education to provide resources, research, support in the dissertation phase, and funding opportunities to students who want to pursue a Doctor of Education in the areas of K-12, higher education, and teacher development.

Funding for graduate school also comes in the form of fellowships and assistantships. However, knowing the difference between a fellowship and assistantship is important. Students who are given the opportunity to receive a fellowship are given funds for costs that students incur during school. This can include books, housing, tuition, and academic support. With an assistantship, students are given funds to support the student in exchange for working a certain amount of hours. The work done by the student is tied to the major the student is working. For example, graduate students with education majors may work as grad assistants or contribute to a think tank and support research.

Fellowships/Assistantships 

Funding for graduate school also comes in the form of fellowships and assistantships. However, it is important to know the difference between a fellowship and assistantship. Students who are given the opportunity to receive a fellowship are given funds for costs that students incur during school. This can include books, housing, tuition, and academic support. With an assistantship, students are given funds to support the student in exchange for working a certain number of hours. The work done by the student is tied to the major the student is working.

For example, graduate students who have education majors may work as a grad assistant or contribute to a think tank and support research. The non-profit Black Doctoral Network supports students who want to pursue doctorates in the Social Sciences, humanities, and in the area of Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM). The program specializes in networking with other colleges and universities as well as business to help students find multiple support systems and funding for students. Whether it is a network of professionals or obtaining a fellowship or assistantship there are positive avenues for students seeking financial support.

Employer Tuition Reimbursement 

There are also companies that provide work incentives in the form of tuition reimbursement. This can be a great opportunity for graduate students who are working a full-time job but still need funding for school. The key to finding the right funding opportunity involves multiple aspects including career choice, family and home life, and what degree program can give a student the most effective and applicable financial support.

Loans

With the average American student debt around $30,000, knowing which loans should be used for the college experience is important. Being a responsible borrower is key to deciding how much money to borrow and how much time it will take to pay the loan back. Many students pay for school through a combination of loans, scholarships, and work-study programs. There is not one specific way to pay for school, and the necessity for financial aid depends on the student, their program of interest, and income needs. Regardless of which financial path you choose, obtaining a graduate degree can be invigorating and lead to career advancement and personal growth.

Educators never stop learning; check out our available graduate degree programs to hone your skills and promote lifelong learning and academic excellence.

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