by Jane Mays-Evans

Created on: February 24, 2009   Last Updated: March 13, 2009

why get a Master's? get a masters?

This is an easy one for me. There are many reasons why I think students should pursue a Master's degree. The first and most important reason for me is that a Master's degree allows students to study and focus on an area of emphasis. While studying for a Bachelor's degree, students often have to take courses that do not pertain to their specific field of study. Even though it is beneficial to have these courses to simply become more intelligent, it is more important for students to choose something they like and are good at to focus on. I received my Master's in Communication Studies in 2006. I was able to spend the 3 years it took me to complete this program studying the things I enjoyed and was interested in the most. I became a better researcher, a better writer, and overall a better student because the courses were interesting to me and more useful. I finally found my "niche" in college and did better as a student. Another reason I believe students should pursue a Master's degree is because of the job market. College degrees are almost like high school diplomas now. It is easier to obtain financial aid for college now and the statistics show more students attend college now than in the 1960's, 1970's, and 1980's. Therefore, if several people are competing for the same job in a specific field, I believe the person with the Master's degree is more likely to be chosen for that job. For instance, if 4 people are applying for an advertising position with a local newspaper and 3 of them have Bachelor's degrees while one of them has a Master's degree, I believe the employer is more likely to go with the Master's recipient. Why? Because employers recognize that the student with the Master's degree in advertising probably has more experience in the field, has had courses that directly deal with advertising, and is more than likely more knowledgeable with the subject at hand. Finally, students should pursue a Master's degree because of the benefits of accomplishment. Master's programs are usually 2-4 years and once a student completes this program, he/she will have a great accomplishment under their belt. Working and going to school is hard work. If you can discipline yourself to do these 2 things full time, you are able to conqueror anything else you put your mind to. Not only does a Master's degree help you feel more confident, intelligent, and powered with knowledge but it also shows others you have a drive for success, discipline to overcome hard coursework, and you are a focused individual.

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