Much like Hamlet's existential struggles, the question about a Masters degree's value in one's life is a contemplation faced by all Masters candidates.
Global news community AJ+, however, seems to have it all figured out in a video that pits the pros and cons of postgraduate (or graduate if you're used to American-English) education against each other.
QUICK READ: Masters in Finance vs MBA
Crucially, AJ+ looks at the issue from the point of view of student debt, and while the European reality differs substantially from the American debt quagmire, many students around the world are forced to take loans to fully or partially fund their Masters studies. According to the authors, there are several key factors that should be weighed in order to decide whether a Masters degree is worth the headache:
- Can you get a job with the degree that you've chosen to pursue?
- How much will it all cost (tuition, books, living expenses)?
- If you got to take a loan, how long will it take you to pay it off?
- Will your salary improve as a result of the Masters degree?
- Will the investment prevent you from making other big purchases (such as a house or a car)?
Next, try to figure out the intangibles. Will you make some good contacts? Will you acquire the skills to be a better professional? Will you skip a few steps on the career ladder? Those are some really important questions, and ultimately they may outweigh the inconvenience of debt.
Check out the whole video below:
So let's say your answer is yes, and you have firmly decided that you're getting a Master's degree. The next step is critical to your overall experience, and it has to do with how your approach your choice of programme. Read all about it here: The Essential Guide to Choosing a Masters Degree
