Returning to College for a Master’s Degree: Practical Advice and Key Considerations

Deciding to pursue a master’s degree is a significant decision that requires careful planning and a strategic approach. Whether you are in a technical field or considering a liberal arts major, there are several key considerations and practical steps you can take to make your return to college a successful and rewarding experience.

The Value of a Master’s Degree in Technical Fields

If you are in a technical field, one of the most practical pieces of advice is to avoid paying for your master’s degree if possible. Employers in the tech sector often have programs in place that will cover the cost of your advanced education if it aligns with your current or future work responsibilities. For instance, they may provide tuition reimbursement or even cover the entire tuition cost if you commit to working for them post-graduation.

Educational Benefits and Employer Obligations

Another benefit to look for is tuition remission and stipends offered by educational institutions. If you enroll in a program that allows you to work as a research associate, you may also receive a stipend that helps offset the cost of your education. Full-time enrollment can make these opportunities more accessible, providing both financial relief and valuable research experience.

Developing a Comprehensive Career Path Plan

Beyond the financial considerations, it is crucial to develop a comprehensive career path plan. While this guide was originally written with undergraduates in mind, the advice on career planning and self-improvement remains highly relevant for those pursuing a master’s degree. The primary message is that higher education, including a master’s degree, should be viewed primarily as job training. It is not solely for the purpose of self-improvement or personal development, although these are certainly beneficial outcomes.

The Overlooked Value of Liberal Arts Majors

The social perception of liberal arts majors has shifted over the years, but the underlying truth remains that many liberal arts disciplines used to be considered “useless” or not directly marketable. Majors such as English, History, Philosophy, and Political Science were often dismissed as not providing the necessary marketable job skills. However, it is important to note that these fields continue to offer valuable skills that can enhance your overall employability.

Caution with Marketed Liberal Arts Degrees

Colleges have recently rebranded certain liberal arts disciplines to create a business-oriented appeal. For example, you might see “Business Studies” or “International Relations” as options to “Technical Fields.” However, employers still often view liberal arts majors as “unskilled labor.” They are generally not impressed by claims of acquiring “critical thinking skills” in subjects like Art History, Political Science, or Gender Studies. Instead, you should focus on finding a field that leverages your specific skills, talents, and aligns with available job opportunities.

Key Strategies for Career Success

One of the most impactful strategies is doing informational interviews. These conversations allow you to gather valuable insights from professionals in your desired field, helping you refine your career goals and identify the best educational paths and job prospects.

Accessing Informative Resources

Within this guide, you can navigate to specific sections related to career development by searching for “n01 General Factors,” “n16 Useless Degrees,” “n20 Doing What You Love,” “n24 ROI – Return on Investment,” “n27 Informational Interviews,” and “n33 Learning on Your Own.”

Additionally, the sections cover essential factors such as understanding the costs and returns on investment, aligning your education with your career goals, and taking advantage of learning opportunities outside the traditional classroom.