What Can You Do After Your Bachelor’s Degree at Rowan?
If you’re a current Rowan student, you’ve probably started thinking about what comes after graduation. For some, that means stepping into the workforce. For others, it’s an opportunity to keep building, learning, and preparing for what comes next.
Earning a graduate degree can be a smart investment in your future, opening the door to higher-level roles, increased earning potential, stronger credentials on your résumé, and deeper expertise in your field.
One thing worth knowing is that if you’re interested in graduate school, you don’t have to start over somewhere new. You can continue your journey right here at Rowan University.
For many students, that decision feels like a natural next step.
“I had such a strong undergraduate experience at Rowan that when it came time to choose a graduate program, I didn’t feel the need to look anywhere else.” — Madison R., Bachelor’s → Master’s
With more than 65 graduate programs, Rowan offers a wide range of opportunities to develop specialized skills, expand your career options, and prepare for leadership positions across industries. Whether you’re looking to grow in your current field or explore a new direction, these graduate programs are designed to help you move forward with purpose.
Graduate Programs at Rowan University: What Options Are Available?
Understanding the differences between graduate programs can help you choose the right path with more confidence.
Master’s Degree Programs
A master’s degree allows you to go deeper in your field and develop advanced skills that set you apart in a competitive job market. It is often the right choice if you’re looking to advance in your current area or qualify for higher-level roles.
At Rowan, you can pursue master’s degrees across areas like business, education, engineering, health professions, communication, and more, with a focus on real-world application.
In many Rowan graduate programs, you’ll work on applied projects tied to real industry challenges. That might include analyzing business data, designing curriculum strategies, or solving engineering problems. These experiences help bridge the gap between coursework and career, allowing you to connect what you learn directly to real-world opportunities.
Graduate Certificates
If you’re not ready to commit to a full degree, graduate certificates offer a more focused way to expand your skill set.
These programs are a smart move if you want to:
- Strengthen your résumé in a specific area
- Gain credentials more quickly
- Add a specialization that sets you apart
- Explore a new field before pursuing a master’s
Many Rowan students use certificates to test the waters or quickly build experience in areas like data analytics, cybersecurity, leadership, and public policy as industries continue to evolve.
In addition to graduate certificates, Rowan also offers post-baccalaureate programs, endorsements, and certification programs that help students build specialized expertise or meet professional licensure requirements in their field.
Fully Online Graduate Programs Through Rowan Online
If you’re balancing work, internships, or other responsibilities, Rowan’s fully online master’s programs and graduate certificate programs allow you to thrive on your terms.
You can continue your education in a format that fits your schedule. Programs are designed with working professionals in mind, making it possible to grow academically while managing full-time responsibilities.
Each path supports a different goal, but all of them build your knowledge and position you for more advanced career opportunities.
If you’re interested in continuing your education even further, Rowan’s doctoral programs offer opportunities for research, leadership, and specialized expertise.
As you explore your options, it’s worth thinking about what matters most to you, whether that’s flexibility, career outcomes, or program format.
Why Staying at Rowan for Graduate School Can Be a Smart Move
You Already Have Academic Momentum
You know how to navigate your courses, manage your time, and succeed in this environment. That familiarity and confidence can make the transition into graduate-level work smoother and less overwhelming.
“Having just completed my undergrad, I knew I had the drive to keep going and didn’t want to lose that momentum by waiting. Staying at Rowan for my MBA was an easy choice given the high-quality faculty and professional networks I had already built.” — Joshua B., Bachelor’s → Master’s
Faculty Relationships That Support Your Next Step
The connections you’ve built with professors and advisors can continue to grow. These relationships often lead to:
- Strong letters of recommendation
- Mentorship opportunities
- Career guidance within your field
Having people who already know your work, understand your goals, and continue to show up for you can make a real difference as you move forward in your career.
Rowan feels like home. It’s a place where I know if I need help, support, guidance, or any type of feedback, I receive that immediately from my professors. Ten years after graduating from Rowan as an undergrad, I still feel that level of support. One email and it’s that immediate connection.” — Kaitlyn G., Bachelor’s → Master’s → Doctoral Student
For many students, that sense of connection extends beyond the classroom:
“My undergrad experience at Rowan shaped me into the person I am today, so coming back for my master’s was an obvious next step. I always know I can count on my Rowan community to support me through challenges and celebrate my successes.” — Christina F., Bachelor’s → Master’s
Guidance Through the Application Process and Beyond
As a current Rowan student, you don’t have to navigate the graduate application process on your own. Advisors, faculty, graduate admissions counselors, and campus resources are available to guide you every step of the way, from exploring programs and preparing your application to submitting materials and planning your next step.
Rowan also helps simplify the transition by already having access to your transcripts, and you may qualify for waived application or deposit fees depending on the program.
Communication is personalized based on what works best for you, whether that’s email, phone calls, or text messaging. That same level of guidance continues after you’re admitted, helping make your transition into graduate school more seamless.
Small Classes and Meaningful Engagement
Graduate courses at Rowan are designed to be interactive and discussion-based, with a strong focus on personalized learning and real-world application.
Many graduate-level courses have smaller class sizes, allowing for more direct interaction with faculty and stronger classroom engagement.
You apply what you learn through case studies, group projects, research, presentations, and hands-on assignments that reflect real challenges in your field. These different learning formats and teaching styles are designed to support how you learn best.
Programs Designed with Career Outcomes in Mind
Rowan’s nationally ranked graduate programs are built with career relevance at the forefront. Faculty members are active professionals in their industries and focused on helping you apply what you learn beyond the classroom.
Many programs incorporate real-world experiences directly into the curriculum through internships, field placements, practicums, teaching assistantships, research opportunities, or project-based learning. These experiences help you build practical skills, expand your professional network, and gain valuable real-world exposure while earning your degree.
How to Prepare for Graduate School as a Rowan Undergraduate
If graduate school is something you are considering, even down the line, there are simple ways to set yourself up for success.
Maintain a Strong GPA
Many graduate programs have minimum GPA requirements, making your academic performance one of the most important factors in preparing for graduate school.
Keeping your GPA strong not only gives you more options when applying to programs, but also helps build the academic habits and discipline that can set you up for success at the graduate level.
Build Relationships with Professors and Advisors
Stay engaged in your classes, attend office hours, and ask questions. These connections become valuable sources of support and guidance.
Get Involved and Gain Experience
Internships, research, and campus involvement help you explore your interests and build experience that strengthens your application.
Start Exploring Your Options Early
Look into programs that interest you, review requirements, and attend information sessions when possible. The earlier you explore, the more confident your decision will feel later.
Pay attention to application requirements early. Some programs may require recommendations, personal statements, or specific coursework.
Think About Your Goals
Consider what you want your next step to look like. It’s also important to think about how your program choice fits into your long-term plans, including time commitment and financial investment.
Should You Go to Graduate School Right After College?
Every student’s path looks a little different.
Some Rowan students continue directly into graduate school to build on their momentum. Others choose to gain professional experience first and return later with a new perspective. Both approaches can lead to meaningful outcomes.
Going straight into graduate school may make sense if you:
- Feel ready to stay in an academic mindset
- Have a clear career direction
- Want to expand your opportunities before entering the job market
- Are entering a field that requires an advanced degree
Gaining work experience first can be valuable if you want to:
- Explore different career paths
- Build real-world experience
- Have an employer help cover tuition costs
- Return to graduate school with more clarity and purpose
What matters most is choosing the timing that aligns with your goals, finances, and overall career plans.
How to Start Exploring Graduate Programs at Rowan University
If you are starting to think about what comes next, taking the first step is easier than you might expect.
- Talk with your academic advisor about graduate pathways
- Connect with faculty to learn more about your area of interest
- Explore graduate program pages and admission requirements
- Connect with a graduate admissions counselor to go over different program options
- Attend virtual information sessions and events
Taking even one step now can help make your next move feel more manageable.
Continue Your Education at Rowan
If Rowan is a place where you’ve grown, found your direction, and built strong relationships, there is a unique opportunity to keep that momentum going.
Staying at Rowan means you can continue in an environment that’s already familiar, with access to faculty, resources, and programs that support your next step.
Graduate school gives you the chance to focus your interests, gain more specialized knowledge, and move forward with greater clarity.
Continuing to invest in yourself and your goals is one way students continue to Defy Definition.
When you’re ready to take the next step, you can keep going right at Rowan.
Quick Answers About Graduate School at Rowan University
Can I stay at Rowan for graduate school?
Yes. With more than 65 graduate programs and certificates, many students choose to continue at Rowan to build on their existing experience and relationships.
When should I start preparing for graduate school?
For many students, junior year is a great time to begin exploring graduate programs, strengthening faculty relationships, and learning about admissions requirements. Many students begin applying during their senior year, depending on their program and goals.
Do I need to go to graduate school right after college?
No. Some students continue right away, while others gain experience first. The right choice depends on your goals and what will help you get the most out of your degree.
Is financial aid available for graduate school?
Yes. Graduate students can complete the FAFSA through StudentAid.gov to determine eligibility for federal financial aid. Graduate financial aid eligibility is based on the student’s income rather than parental income.
Are Rowan graduate programs designed for working professionals?
Yes. Many graduate programs are specifically designed with full-time working professionals in mind, offering online courses, evening classes, flexible pacing options, and manageable course loads.
Many students take one to three courses per semester while balancing work, internships, or family responsibilities.
About Rowan
A top 100 national public research institution, Rowan University offers bachelor’s through doctoral and professional programs in person and online to nearly 25,000 students. The fastest-growing public research institution in the Northeast and among the country’s top 10 fastest-growing, Rowan offers a thriving multidisciplinary environment with a strong emphasis on practical research in health care, engineering, science and business, while ensuring excellence in undergraduate education. Nationally recognized for innovation, high-quality, affordable education and public-private partnerships, Rowan is one of two universities in the U.S. to offer M.D., D.O. and D.V.M. degree programs.