should i go for a master right after undergraduate school?
is better to go right into graduate school or should i wait to get a job with my bachelors? #phd #master
3 answers
Sara’s Answer
This is a great question. I think this is dependent on the field you're interested in going into. In some career paths, like marketing and sales, on the job experience is the best experience you can get. In certain circumstances, like a science field or aspirations to be a professor, it makes the most sense to be efficient with your time and jump right in to a master's program.
thank you for your answer, not to set on what my career will be after undergraduate.i'm leading towards teaching.
seth
Well something to consider, is that the pay for a teacher (high school and below) doesn't have much of a pay difference based on your education, i.e. if you have a masters or a PHD you may only make 1-2k more than if you just have an undergraduate based on their set pay-scale. I would recommend getting your teaching certificate immediately following if not during earning your undergraduate degree if that is the pathway you choose. That being said, if you're set on being a teacher of a higher level then high school, then consider going directly into graduate school as you will need these credentials to get a job. Good luck!
Sara Brewster
Melissa’s Answer
Hi Seth,
I went right from undergraduate into graduate school and it had both its pros and cons. By going right away, it ensured that I stayed motivated and still had good study habits. However, I found myself not being able to contribute in classroom conversations as much as I would have liked because I lacked the experience to draw from. Most of my classmates had between 2-10 years experience working in the field. I think a year or two off would have been helpful, but I know it's often difficult to readjust to the school schedule once you're in the groove of working full-time. Neither option will prevent you from graduating, but they will both present some minor challenges. It's really up to you and your comfort level with either option.
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Seth, Some business schools require (or strongly encourage) several years in the workforce before you can apply/be accepted. My recommendation is to consider your long term goals, & then do research to find a school that is known for strong professors, or a strong programs to help you reach your goals. Good luck!
thank for the answer, going to UTSA fall 2017 so i will have to talk to some of the professors too see what they did.
seth