3年花费60万，大学生的第一个“奢侈品”竟然是它

Core Viewpoint - The rising tuition fees for graduate programs are creating a significant barrier for prospective students, leading to a decline in the number of applicants for graduate studies, as the cost-benefit analysis of pursuing a master's degree becomes increasingly unfavorable [6][8][40]. Tuition Fee Increases - A C9 university announced a tuition increase for its master's program in social work to 80,000 yuan, a nearly 70% increase from the previous year's 48,000 yuan, resulting in total costs exceeding 100,000 yuan over 2.5 years [6][8]. - Other graduate programs, particularly in finance and psychology, have tuition fees reaching as high as 828,000 yuan, contributing to a growing trend of discouragement among potential applicants [8][10]. Declining Graduate School Applications - The "exam for graduate school" trend has cooled down, with predictions of continued declines in application numbers for the 2026 academic year [8][40]. - The duration of specialized master's programs is extending from two years to three years, further increasing the financial burden on students, especially in major cities like Beijing and Shanghai [8][19]. Economic Considerations - The total cost of graduate education, including rent and living expenses, can reach approximately 600,000 yuan over three years, with many students relying on family support to cover these costs [19][21]. - The lack of on-campus housing for specialized master's students at several top universities adds to the financial strain, forcing students to seek expensive off-campus accommodations [19][20]. Employment Concerns - Graduates from less popular programs, such as social work, face challenges in the job market, with salaries typically ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 yuan per month, raising questions about the return on investment for their education [27][31]. - The perception of graduate degrees is shifting, with employers increasingly prioritizing practical experience over advanced degrees, leading to a phenomenon where higher education does not guarantee better job prospects [46][48]. Future Outlook - The number of graduate school applicants has seen a significant drop, with a decrease of 360,000 applicants expected in 2024, indicating a potential end to the previous surge in interest in graduate education [44][48]. - Experts suggest that the rising costs of graduate education are prompting a more rational evaluation of its value, with students now more likely to weigh the financial implications before committing to further studies [48][50].