With your undergraduate years just about to end, you might wonder about pursuing that master’s degree you always wanted. As the time to decide comes closer, you might realize that getting a master’s degree is a serious commitment; hence, it’s a decision you shouldn’t take lightly. So, should you opt for a master’s degree?
Irrespective of what stage you’re at in your career, whether you’re a seasoned professional or a fresh grad, pursuing a master’s degree provides you with invaluable insights into your field. In addition, opting for a master’s degree makes qualifying for jobs you want simpler. Not just that, it gives you a competitive edge over other candidates, helping you land better job opportunities.
Even though pursuing a master’s degree is worth it, it requires energy, time, and sacrifice. So, how can you decide whether opting for a master’s degree is right?
Here are some practical things to consider before choosing a master’s degree.
1. Weigh your preference against your strengths
Evaluating your choice against your strengths might sound common sense, but many graduates overlook this. It’s vital to base your decision on your current experience, skills, and expertise.
For instance, you might be passionate about environmental conservation, but a degree in climate change science might not be the best option if you only have a background in arts. Instead, opting for a master’s in environment management might be a better option for you as it depends on your strengths.
Similarly, opting for a masters in education administration might be the best option if you’re dreaming of becoming a lead teacher or coordinator. Remember to weigh your preference against your strengths and choose a degree program.
2. Consider the financial cost
Even though total expenses vary between different universities, you need to know that master’s degrees are usually not cheap. Hence, you need to consider whether you can afford it as it might influence your choice. Yes, loans and scholarships are available.
Not just that, taking up a part-time job is also possible, but no matter how you deal with it, don’t forget to keep the cost in your mind while taking the final call. Remember, you might not just have to pay for the course fees but also the accommodation costs if you’re going abroad for the degree.
The best thing you can do is to talk directly to every university you’re applying to and find out what currently available options are. You can also consider getting help from external funding bodies to benefit from financial aid. Also, look if the degree is being offered online, as it will save you time and money, allowing you to complete the degree easily.
3. Ask yourself why
One of the critical things to consider is why you want to pursue a master’s degree in the first place. Is it a requirement to pursue a particular profession? Is it so that you can grow professionally? Will it be an online or on-site degree program? Or are you just opting for it for the sake of learning?
These are the fundamental questions you need to ask yourself before choosing any degree program; once you have the answer to your why, then it would be the appropriate time to buckle up and pursue the degree you want without a hint of hesitation or confusion.
Remember to choose a course that fits your goals and aspirations, not someone else’s, as it will help you get the degree easily and remain happy and rejuvenated throughout your academic life.
4. Think about the degree’s length
Remember, varying on your previous qualifications, experience, the purpose of your degree, and your commitment to it, the length of a master’s degree can vary.
The standard length of a master’s degree program is from one to two years. However, considering the above things, some degree programs can take up more years to finish; it is something you need to know before you opt for a master’s degree.
Depending on the duration of the degree, you might also need to carry out an opportunity cost analysis. For instance, if the course you want to pursue takes three years to complete due to your other professional or personal commitments, think about what opportunities you might be giving up in the meantime. This can include staying within your current market, seeking a different job, or focusing more on personal goals like travelling, helping you make the right choice.
Simply put, always begin with the end in mind so that you don’t waste your precious time and the other opportunities that might come your way. Be vigilant about the decision you make.
5. Consider how you’ll learn
It’s essential to remember that studying for a master’s degree differs from an undergraduate course. This not just includes the learning style but also the structure, which might be something you haven’t experienced prior. Hence, you must consider the delivery method of this degree. But how can you decide which approach you should take?
Start by identifying your needs and see which course caters to your needs. For example, if you enjoy the process of guided learning, you can opt for a taught-based master’s degree. On the other hand, if you want more independence while studying for your master’s degree program, you can go for the research-based master’s that allows you to enjoy independent studying.
Remember, it all depends on your temperament and how you want to pursue your studies. It is essential and recommended to choose the one that brings the best out of you, and you enjoy the whole learning process.
Final thoughts
Are you finding it difficult to decide whether you should pursue a master’s degree or not? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Just read the article and consider the things mentioned above and see if opting for a master’s degree helps you in your professional or academic life; then, make up your mind and go for the master’s.
