If you are already considering getting a Master’s degree, it is safe to assume that you want to explore something more in the field of your choice, to achieve the career you want. But is it true that getting a higher education is the best way to achieve that goal?
There is no definitive answer that can apply to all fields or career paths. Some fields attach great importance to the Master’s degree. Some others consider it an advantage, while others consider it a disadvantage.
Why can it be a disadvantage? Some recruiters consider a Master’s degree to make an applicant overqualified in a particular field and position. In other words, they mind recruiting you because they consider that someone with Bachelor’s degree would suffice for the position. In addition, usually, people with a Master’s degree are considered only “appropriate” to be at a certain position level and with a certain salary. This is a good thing, but you will find it difficult to get a job if “that particular position and salary” has few vacancies available.
Therefore, you should first find out what exactly is the profession and position you want to have. For example, you want to work in the field of Research and Development in large companies in the position of manager. You can find information about that exact position in that particular field. This can answer the question of whether a Master’s degree in the field you are interested in is mandatory, optional, or even actually not so necessary.
How To Find Such Information?
- Search for people with your dream profession and position on LinkedIn, then look at their career and education history.
If most of them pursue a Master’s degree immediately after getting a Bachelor’s and they can get their current job with that degree, then you can follow in their footsteps. In addition, you can also send a message via LinkedIn to ask for advice. However, do not forget to convey it politely and do not expect their reply too much.
- Look at the job description of the job you want.
In each job vacancy, the applicant’s requirements are listed. From the requirement lists, you can get an idea of what considered more important for that position. For example, if most of the vacancies only require a Bachelor’s degree but with work experience, you should prioritize getting a job first rather than getting a Master’s degree immediately.
- If you intend to take the middle ground by taking a Master’s degree while working, take this into account:
How do you divide your time between work and study? What should you prepare before you start? Can your family support everything you need to focus on these two things? Plan the above in detail before starting. There is a possibility that you think you can do it, but as you experience it, it turns out you lack the support you need and feel overwhelmed. This can be avoided by making sure everything is ready from the beginning. Since you have never experienced it yourself, you may not anticipate that your education takes up more time of your day than you think. This is why a good plan is needed so that both can be done without too much struggle. This plan also includes the calculation of time, cost, location, and all other personal matters that might help or interfere with the continuity of your education.
