When Is The Best Time to Start a Master’s Degree Program
Have you been thinking about starting a master’s degree program? The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many of us to re-evaluate our careers with some even considering changing career paths and pursuing postgraduate degrees.
With demand for highly-skilled workers rapidly increasing, many people are seeing the value of higher education, particularly within certain industries. As postgraduates are more likely to be in high-skilled employment, there is so much potential in earning a master’s and specializing in a subject matter that interests you.
Most Popular Reasons for Starting a Master’s Degree Program
Deciding to start a master’s degree can be exciting, and there are a number of reasons that may lead you to making the leap.
Timing of enrollment will naturally be based on your own personal circumstances. Some people begin a master’s program right after graduating with a bachelor’s degree, while others wait years and sometimes even decades.
Here are a few of the most popular reasons for starting a master’s degree program.
Progress current career path
You may be interested in continuing your career progression in the field of study you pursued in undergrad or the field of work you’re currently in. A master’s can help you build on the knowledge you already have and take your career to the next level.
Redirect career with new interest
If you’re looking to pursue something new, a master’s program can aid a career change, helping you gain relevant knowledge in the new field. It’s never too late to start a postgraduate degree and pursue what you’re most passionate about.
Progress to higher level of education
If you aspire to do a PhD later on, a master’s degree is often the next logical step, and sometimes it’s even a requirement for university’s PhD programs. A master’s can then allow you to progress to the next stage of your higher education journey.
Improve employment prospects
When you’ve hit a slump in your career, it can be discouraging. Whether you’re no longer interested in the industry you’re currently in or you feel limited because you lack experience or education, a master’s degree could help you improve your employment prospects. And it could even open up new opportunities.
Meet job requirements
A master’s can help you meet job requirements for your current job or a job you aspire to have. Some careers require professionals to get postgraduate degrees in order to be able to advance beyond a certain stage.
Benefits of Getting a Master’s Degree Now
There are many benefits and opportunities that come with getting a master’s, and it’s important to weigh these up with the costs and time involved when considering if you should start a postgraduate degree.
Earn higher pay
After getting the additional qualification of a master’s, you have a better chance of earning higher pay. Often, these degrees financially pay for themselves over time, but this varies on the industry, country you live in, and state of the economy.
Qualify for higher level jobs
In many parts of the world, master’s programs are highly regarded by employers. Because of this, a master’s degree can allow you to apply for more prestigious positions, and it can even give you an edge in an overcrowded job market.
Increase job security
A master’s can keep you from becoming stagnant in your career. It can also help you increase your job security in the long term and make you more marketable to employers in the future.
Expand your knowledge
A master’s degree program can help you develop important professional skills and allow you to expand your knowledge in your field of interest. This will help you elevate your expertise in your field, and working towards a postgraduate degree can enhance your personal growth and development too.
Build relationships and make connections
Graduate programs are usually smaller than undergrad programs, allowing master’s students to build closer relationships with fellow students. You even will have the opportunity to get to know faculty members, guest lecturers and business experts, which can help you make connections for the future as well.
Are You Ready to Start a Master’s Degree Program in Business?
As getting a master’s degree can really boost your business career, it may be time for you to start thinking about your postgraduate studies.
If you’re considering starting a master’s degree in business, sign up for Unify to browse, match, and compare universities and programs across the world.