Is graduate school the right choice for you?

How to determine if continuing your education is worth it.

When I was completing my senior year of undergrad as a communications major, I was on track to graduate early so I began to consider if I should pursue another degree, since I planned to be in school for four years anyways.

I wrote down the pros: research opportunities, career advancement and higher salary potential. I wrote down the cons: cost, burnout and becoming overqualified in some employer’s minds. Nonetheless, I told myself I would be 23 years old with or without a master’s degree, so I decided to apply and only go if I found a program that was the perfect fit. 

You might be asking yourself as a PR professional why should you complete a master’s program? I believe that if you are interested in research, there is no better space to do that. Also, obtaining a master’s degree will set you apart from your colleagues and hopefully one day aid you in securing your long-term career goal. If you’re interested in pursuing a graduate degree, this article offers advice, meaningful data, and tools to help you explore master’s programs throughout the U.S.

Benefits to graduate school for a PR professional

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2021, 14.4% of residents 25 and older had completed an advanced degree such as a master’s, professional or doctoral degree. There are a few reasons why you may consider going back to school:

1. Deepen your area of interest and stay competitive compared to your peers

You will have the opportunity to work with industry experts and professors who share similar research interests. This academic credential will place you among a distinguished group of emerging leaders that are committed to advancing personal knowledge and leadership potential. At Baylor University, I was able to conduct research on the perceptions of undergraduate and graduate students towards a career in PR for my master’s thesis. This opportunity allowed me to deepen my area of interest when looking at students’ attitudes towards a certain career path. 

2. Expand your professional network

Many programs will offer professional development, internships, and the ability to publish research. Personally, without the help of my Graduate Program Advisor Dr. Marlene Neill, I would not have been chosen as an inaugural member of the EMERGE: The Plank Center & The Grossman Group Leadership Academy through The Plank Center for Leadership in Public Relations. 

Emeri in Chicago, IL last November

3. Advance your career trajectory

If you are considering a career path as a professor, you will need a PhD. Master’s programs at R1 institutions (the highest classification a research focused university can obtain), such as Baylor University, which will provide the steppingstone to your PhD. For those readers that are pursuing the professional route, a master’s degree will set you apart from your competitors as you move up in the workforce.

Types of graduate programs for emerging leaders

College Factual is an online website that provides data-driven information about academic programs in the United States. This platform considers academic quality, cost comparisons, graduation rates, diversity in the student body, post-graduation earning and accreditation status. College Factual, found that as of 2025, there are 65 colleges in the U.S. that offer a master’s degree in public relations and advertising.

1. George Washington University

   1. Average of 85 annual graduates

   2. A median starting salary of $73,569 

2. Boston University

   1. Average of 127 annual graduates

   2. A median starting salary of $73,982

3. Northwestern University

   1. Average of 27 annual graduates

   2. A median starting salary of $82,421

For those who want to explore similar degree paths, there’s an array of options: Strategic communication, journalism, communications, or a business administration path with a concentration in marketing, to name a few. 

Areas to consider when choosing the right program

• The institution’s accreditation and reputation

• Faculty expertise in your areas of interest

• Curriculum focus and degree plan

• Professional development opportunities

• Program format (in-person, hybrid or online)

• Cost (financial aid or scholarships)

• Return on investment (job placement of graduates and average starting salary)

Tips for choosing the right institution, from someone who’s been there

It's crucial to do thorough research. A pros and cons spreadsheet can help keep everything organized. Here are some areas I considered when making my pros and cons list: cost, program reputation, faculty expertise, mentorship opportunities, curriculum, career outcomes, and program length. 

1. Career goals

Think about how this degree will impact your career goals, both in the short and long-term. 

2. Campus atmosphere and location

Plan a visit to the campus and meet with a graduate program advisor or faculty member to get a better understanding of the program. When I met with Dr. Alec Tefertiller from BU, I asked him questions about the degree plan, areas for research/professor specializations, what sets BU apart and how does the program meet each student’s needs.

Emeri’s first BU visit in March 2023

You’re making a difference!

Overall, just remember, whichever program you choose, you’ll be joining less than 15% of the population who is taking steps to further their education.

A master’s program provides more than advanced coursework. This endeavor creates a space for critical thinking, leadership opportunities, classroom debates, and the chance to engage in research that can shape the future of public relations!

I’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, ideas, or questions in the comments below and join the conversation.

Follow the Emerging Leader on Instagram @theemergingleader_ to stay in the loop!

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Meet Emeri

Emeri is a master’s student at Baylor University studying JPR&NM. Her research is published in Corporate Communications: An International Journal, and she’s an inaugural member of EMERGE: The Plank Center & Grossman Group Leadership Academy.

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