Choosing to continue your education beyond a four-year degree may seem like a daunting decision. While there are no guarantees of individual success or riches, data clearly support those who elect to pursue a graduate degree.

Here are three significant benefits backed by evidence.

Salary

In 2020 The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) set the median annual salary difference between those with a bachelor’s degree and those with a master’s degree at $12,480.

• Bachelor’s annual income:  $67,860
• Master’s annual income:     $80,340

An extra $12.5k per year is nothing to sneeze at, especially considering the amount potentially gained over a 40-year career. Most graduate degrees offered by Drury University cost $14,220 total (i.e., all tuition and fees) or less. These factors appear to position the pursuit of graduate education as providing a significant return on investment.

Employment

The US Census Bureau reports the number of Americans with master’s degrees doubled since 2000.  Also, according to Indeed.com, a master’s degree is roughly equivalent to 10 or more years of work experience in a related field. This information appears to support the pursuit of graduate education as a reliable option for enhancing job applicants’ competitive positions.

Employers are taking notice.

The majority of employers (61%) say they are looking for more educated candidates at the mid-level skill level, but 46% are looking to hire better-educated candidates at entry level and 43% think the same for higher levels. – Fast Company

Knowledge

According to Inc. Magazine, successful business leaders including Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey, Elon Musk, and Mark Zuckerberg spend at least five hours per week dedicated to the sole purpose of learning.

People who apply the five-hour rule in the world of work have an advantage. The idea of deliberate practice is often confused with just working hard. Also, most professionals focus on productivity and efficiency, not on improvement. As a result, just five hours of deliberate learning a week can set you apart.

Setting aside five hours per week to learn and practice offers substantial professional and personal benefits. Why not use those five hours to pursue a graduate degree. You may expand your knowledge and skillset while enhancing your potential earnings and increasing your attractiveness to prospective employers.

It is never too late to take advantage of these opportunities. Start today, by reviewing graduate programs available in your area and/or online. Chances are you’ll find an engaging course of study that will fulfill your educational and professional goals.