- How much practical experience do you have?
If you have been working for awhile in the industry, you will get so much more out of the program. You will also have a better understanding of what specialty you will be happy in.
- How committed do you want to be to a given specialty?
If you spend a couple of years and many thousands of dollars on a program, you become somewhat married to that area of the field. Although you are by no means required to stay in that field, it becomes psychologically difficult to separate yourself from it after the fact!
- What programs are available in your specialty?
Consider your long term goal here. As an example, are you hoping to be a Manager one day? Or a Senior Software Architect? The answer will determine if you should look for an MBA program or a MSCS program. Always keep your long term goal in mind when making this very important decision.
Deciding on an Advanced Degree
From Laura Schneider, former About.com Guide
Prev
- Consider What You Hope to Accomplish
- Consider Your Specialty
- Consider the Finances
- Consider Locations of Potential Programs
- Take A Reality Check
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