Think Twice About a Master’s in 2025: What Student-Athletes Need to Know

Balancing classes, practices, and game days, you’ve already learned how to manage high stakes and tight schedules. But when it comes to deciding whether to chase a master’s degree after college, it’s worth pausing before saying “yes.”

At first glance, grad school still looks solid—around 860,000 students earned master’s degrees in 2023–2024, and projections show growth through 2025–2026. But numbers alone don’t tell the whole story.

The reality for new grads, including student-athletes transitioning from sports to professional life, is tougher than it seems. Unemployment for Gen Z master’s grads has climbed to 5.8%—almost double what it was last year, according to the St. Louis Federal Reserve.

Experts agree that while a master’s can still have value, it’s no longer the default path to career success.

“The old model—go to school, get a degree, move up—is breaking down fast,” says Grace Lee, managing director at a college admissions advisory firm.

Before you decide to add another degree to your plate, consider these key factors:

1. Cost can outweigh the payoff
Even a mid-tier program can cost $75,000, while elite MBAs top $230,000. For student-athletes used to strict budgets and careful financial planning, that kind of debt can be overwhelming.

2. Federal loans are getting tighter
Starting in 2026, federal graduate loans will be capped at $100,000, and annual PLUS loans will drop to $20,500. That limits how much you can borrow to finance a master’s without relying on personal or family resources.

3. The job market is changing—fast
AI and automation are transforming industries that traditionally valued master’s degrees. Entry-level positions in law, finance, and corporate roles are shrinking, meaning that a master’s alone may not guarantee the career boost it once did.

4. Grad school shouldn’t be a “backup plan”
Some undergrads use grad school as a way to delay entering a tough job market. But with fewer entry-level opportunities, this strategy can backfire. Real-world experience—internships, mentorships, and networking—often carries more weight than an extra degree.

5. Schools aren’t keeping up
Many programs lag behind industry changes. Employers increasingly prioritize practical skills, micro-credentials, and hands-on experience over traditional classroom learning.

So, what should student-athletes do?
Think of a master’s as a multiplier, not a parachute. Ask yourself:

• Is this degree actually required for my career goals?
• Am I pursuing it out of genuine interest—or fear of stepping into the professional world?
• Can I afford it without compromising my financial future?
• Do I have the grades, time, and resources to succeed while balancing life, career, and potentially part-time work?
• What’s the ultimate payoff—best case, worst case, and most likely outcome?

“Treat a master’s as something that adds momentum to a path you’ve already chosen, not as a default next step,” Lee advises.

For student-athletes, the message is clear: don’t chase a master’s just because it’s expected. Focus on your career, build your network, gain experience, and then decide if graduate school will genuinely push you closer to your goals.