If you want to take your career up a level, then you might have considered the idea of getting a master’s degree. When it comes to deciding whether or not a master’s degree is the right choice for you, you need to balance the many advantages of getting a postgraduate qualification against the course cost, study intensity, and any other commitments that you might have.
Why Do a Master’s Degree?
Studying for a master’s degree is an exciting prospect for many people and there are lots of great reasons to do one. Most people who study for a master’s degree do so to progress in their current career path, enter a certain profession, meet the requirements of their current job, improve their employment prospects, or develop a personal interest.
Many people consider getting a master’s so that they can progress to a higher-level qualification like a PhD, and a master’s course can also help you with changing your career, while being a great way to make useful contacts and connections in your industry.
Will a Master’s Degree Boost My Job Prospects?
A master’s degree UK is generally highly regarded by employers. Postgraduate courses in Scotland are often designed to help you get into a specific career role, and postgraduate study can give you the chance to set yourself apart from the competition in the job market and become an expert in your chosen area.
If you are interested in postgraduate study in the UK, you may be wondering if a master’s degree in Scotland is going to boost your career prospects and help you get the job that you want. While holding a master’s qualification is not going to guarantee you a job, research from 2020 shows that people with a master’s degree in the UK have higher employment rates compared to those without and are more likely to be in high-skilled employment. Along with this, some roles require a master’s degree, while it is highly beneficial for others. Check out postgraduate courses in Scotland at Stirling University to see what getting an advanced degree could do for your career. Stirling University offers a range of postgraduate master’s courses that are designed to prepare you for certain job roles, which may be ideal for you if you have a clear idea of where you want the qualification to take you.
Is the Master’s Cost Worth It?
Getting a master’s degree can be a huge investment of your money, time, and energy. Because of this, before you decide if it is the right option for you, you need to carefully consider your reasons for studying. Getting a master’s degree is generally cheaper in comparison to undergraduate study although the fees may differ depending on where you study and the subject that you study. However, if you are worried about the cost, it is also worth considering that this is an investment in your future, and master’s graduates tend to earn considerably more compared to bachelor’s undergraduates, with an average salary of £42,000. Despite this, it’s a good idea to carefully consider if it’s worth it – many people end up disappointed when they realise that getting a master’s degree does not automatically guarantee you will earn more. To be sure that it is going to be worth paying for and will meet your expectations, you should be passionate about your subject and sure that it is going to boost your credentials significantly compared to other options. It’s worth checking out job listings to see what employers value most – are there any cheaper alternatives, like industry certifications, that can help you reach the same goal?
What Are the Entry Requirements for a Master’s Degree?
You will usually need to have achieved a 2:1 with your bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification to be accepted on to the majority of master’s degree courses. However, this is not always the case, so if you have a 2:2, 3rd, or do not have an undergraduate degree, there is still a chance that you might be accepted to study if you have appropriate professional experience. If you don’t meet the criteria for the course that you are interested in, it’s a good idea to research any alternative entry opportunities that might be in place and get in touch with the admissions department directly to discuss your options. You may also need to prove proficiency in English with a recognised language test if English is not your first language.
How Long Does a Master’s Degree Take?
Finally, you might be wondering if you will have the time to study for a master’s. Most courses are available for one year full-time or two years part-time. Full-time study usually involves several lectures and seminars each week along with a lot of independent study. Part-time study is typically designed for students who have other commitments to uphold and is less intense.
If you have a certain career in mind, want to improve your job prospects or are simply interested in learning more about your favourite subject, then getting a master’s degree might be worth considering.
