And the Council of Graduate Schools reports that, not surprisingly, people with Ph.Ds earn 46 percent more than people with master's degrees. But there are some exceptions. See if a graduate degree will increase your income before you begin the application process. Since grad school consumes most of your life, entertainment shouldn't be a top priority. Reputation, however, is an issue.
Most schools have a department in which they are particularly strong.
If you apply to six schools, pick a couple dream schools, several likely schools and one or two safety schools. School size and location is also important. If you aren't comfortable at the school you've selected, your entire graduate school career could be a miserable experience. Along the same lines, a school's curriculum can make or break your advanced education. Be sure the school offers the exact programs in which you're interested.