Guide

A master's degree is an excellent way to build upon the skills and knowledge you've already gained while completing your bachelor's degree and working in your field. Although earning one requires lots of time and sacrifice – especially if you plan to maintain full-time employment – it can help separate you from some of your peers. The reward is often better pay and a more fulfilling career.

Much like in undergraduate studies, students who are pursuing their master's degrees get to interact with some of the most distinguished and educated people in their disciplines on a daily basis. Not only are they learning from experts who have already studied and achieved respected careers in their fields of choice, but they're constantly networking with people who have established connections with many of their peers – some with whom you may interact while working in the department, researching and attending conferences. If you cultivate mutually beneficial relationships, they could provide leads to employment down the road. Some programs may require you to earn credit through an internship, which is an excellent way to get your foot in the door. It could end up being your job after graduation, or your employer could be your first reference for your next job. Also, some of the friendships you naturally form with your classmates could prove beneficial. If you feel the need to expand your social circle, many programs offer social clubs and organizations.

A 2008 American Community Survey from the US Census Bureau indicated that 29 percent of Americans 25 years of age and older have a bachelor's degree. That's an increase of five percent since 1998. Young people ages 25 to 29 hold bachelor's degrees at an even higher percentage – 31. Seven percent of 25 to 29 year olds have received master's degrees. With undergraduate degrees becoming more common, many students have chosen to lengthen their academic career by pursuing graduate advanced degrees to set themselves apart. It's also a good way to avoid searching for jobs in the down economy, where the unemployment rate is hovering around 10 percent, although that's a less than productive reason to earn a master's degree. Your chances of benefitting from it are greater when you know what you want as the end result. Set your career goals, know the additional skills and knowledge you need to attain, and select a school that best suits your needs. Then you will be on a path to a more specialized career that very few of your peers will have the benefit of pursuing.