I got my Bachelor's in 2001, and have been pondering about whether it's worth it to continue with my Master's.
If I do continue, it will be 2 years, full-time, and will cost me around $40K (for the programme I'm interested in, by coursework, in-campus), excluding my living and commuting expenses, and the fact that I will have no income for 2 years, since I will be studying full-time and not working at all.
Considering the HUGE amount of money this is, is getting this Master's a worthy investment? I am talking in terms of future job prospects, salary and international mobility (e.g. easier migration to 1st-world countries and the potential to hold dual citizenship perhaps?).
$40K is still a huge sum.
2007-04-11 06:53:01 · 5 answers · asked by july_exodus 3 in Education & Reference ➔ Higher Education (University +)
It really depends on the field and on the hiring prospects once you get out. Many administrative/professional positions on college campuses require at least a Master's, but it's a little different for those in the private sector.
Before obtaining a Master's so that immigration is easier, check to see what jobs receive special consideration in that country. For some, you might need to complete further training in that country, in order to receive a license and practice. For others, they may have a glut of people already lined up for those positions, so you would have a tougher time getting in.
The last consideration I can think of is personal enjoyment and satisfaction; will you be happy completing further schooling? Will the knowledge benefit you in nonmaterial ways? Will you appreciate the challenges and the rigor involved in obtaining an advanced degree (or two)?
I guess what I'm saying is that all of these factors should be considered, especially if you'll be paying out-of-pocket for the degree. Is there no fellowship/assistantship support for graduate students in your target schools?
2007-04-11 07:04:18 · answer #1 · answered by rhetorica 3 · 3⤊ 0⤋
A master's degree is a good investment because you get more qualifications in specific fields and you can cope better with the subject. However, the sum you mention is really high. Maybe try to research and find a master's degree in another university, perhaps abroad, in Europe, UK, etc, where you can get a master's on the same subject for less money. Or get a scholarship?
2007-04-11 14:02:35 · answer #2 · answered by cpinatsi 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
IT depends on what you are trying to achieve. If you are getting a master's degree because you will for sure advance forward through a company, then yes it might be. But you have to consider that fact that are you willing to loose some of your time to do that.
2007-04-11 14:06:23 · answer #3 · answered by yummy_you20 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It depends on what the master's degree is in. From what I'm finding out from friends who have a masters degree is it's not worth it. They make as much as I do but they have a massive debt to pay off.
2007-04-11 14:01:04 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
If it is an MBA from a top school -- it is worth the price, because may people will double their salaries with the degree.
As for the PhD -- very few pay for it themselves. Most PhD students get fellowships and assistantships that cover tuition and fees and enough for room and board.
2007-04-11 14:10:16 · answer #5 · answered by Ranto 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋