Is Getting A Master’s Degree Still Worth It?
Enhancing one's skills and aiming for further studies always looks good on your resume. But is it really all what it's cracked up to be?
Getting a master’s degree may be difficult, but, needless to say, it’s a very rewarding goal. It’s time consuming, requires a huge amount of self-motivation, and is a serious financial commitment. However, in today’s increasingly competitive job market, having a master’s degree is not such a bad idea. After all, it gives you that competitive advantage, setting yourself apart from the rest of the workforce.
A Masters in Business Administration (MBA) is slightly different than your average master’s degree as it’s a program the centers on more advanced concepts in the field of business and commerce. The curriculum is designed to teach current management techniques, relative concepts in applied mathematics, economics, statistics, and behavioral science, providing the graduate greater, more encompassing knowledge that allows them to become better strategic managers and leaders.
Thinking of going back to school to pursue further studies? Here are reasons as to why you should take that leap.
1. CAREER ADVANCEMENT
Numerous companies recognize the value of having a master’s degree, with some even requiring it as a prerequisite for employment and tenure. In industries such as healthcare and education, it’s deemed mandatory. When it comes to climbing the proverbial ladder, earning an MBA makes it easier for you to transition into higher senior leadership positions. Combining previous experiences and your master’s degree, you’ll be at the top of the corporate ladder in no time.
2. BUILDING CONNECTION
Whether you’re taking online courses or attending an actual class at a university, you’re surrounded by different individuals hailing from different backgrounds and industries. You are now well-connected with people—many of whom are considered successful in their chosen fields.
Not only that, your professors as well are industry leaders themselves, of whom you can learn a great deal from. They can potentially help you in the future, building the foundation for successful business collaborations and partnerships.
3. DEVELOPING SPECIALIZED KNOWLEDGE
Regardless of whatever degree program or field of study you decide to pursue, the skills and insights you learn from the academe—from accounting, economics, marketing to operations—can be applied in almost any industry. It may be called “Master of Business Administration,” however, its applications are not limited strictly to the business world. It’s useful if you’re pursuing a higher leadership role in government, the public sector, and in the private industry.
READ: Learn From These Online Courses And Discover Your Alternative Career
4. COMPETITIVE SALARY
It’s no secret that getting a master’s degree or MBA from a business school is not cheap. But think about the return of investment once you graduate. People with the additional degree are significantly paid higher than those who have a bachelor’s degree. If you plan to use your degree as a means to starting your own company and be your own boss, you’ll immediately be able to lead your business with confidence.
5. IMPROVED VERSATILITY AS A PROFESSIONAL
One of the many benefits of being an MBA holder is further honing your other skills such as researching, analyzing data, and problem-solving, all of which are essential to surviving today’s corporate world. What you learn in the classroom easily empowers you to become a more confident leader and business strategist in real life.
Whether you decide to pursue an MBA or an MA, pursuing higher learning is a great opportunity for growth, not just in your professional life and career, but in your personal life as well.