Is a BS in IT Enough? Or go for Masters?

[c911darkwolf]

So I graduated Tech School in 2006 with a AS in IT and now graduated 2011 with a BS in IT.

I'm currently got a 39k a year salary job, but I feel i'm not having a lot of doors open. I was considering since my loans are all in good standing atm of going back and getting my Masters Degree.

Is it worth it? Is having a masters going to help my income and get me into jobs in my area? I know the local University has openings from time to time and they usually only accept someone with a Masters for Teaching or High up jobs.

I'm also studying for my CCNA Exam as well. Is there better routes to open more doors or is the Masters Degree going to help give me a leg up on the competition?

I am Strong in Linux, SQL, & Cisco Routers.

Thanks for your input.

 

[Onus]

Experience is what matters.
Universities hire people with advanced degrees because it's part of their game. In the Real World, I've never had a recruiter say to me "well, if you had a Master's degree..." Although, some jobs do look for people with 4-year degrees because presumably, to get one requires a certain level of effort, focus and dedication.

 

[c911darkwolf]

I do want to teach later on when i'm closer to retirement. Thanks for the help Onus! I'm going to get my CCENT & CCNA Certs then focus on a network engineer career next

 

[Kewlx25]

Most places that want a masters degree is for a management position.

 

[BoostSoftware]

I'm in a similar boat, however am just finishing up the Masters in IDT and looking at a potential Doctorate in Educational I.T.

One thing I've noticed as a life-long learner, is how much education has changed due to the potential of e-Learning innovation and options. The Masters program has been like Kindergarten to an adult, due to robust and engaging lesson design and implementation. Since I've been able to maintain a 4.0 in the Masters program, I am thinking it would be good to continue on while there is so much momentum. Certifications can also go a long way to increase your employment potential and ability to earn more.

One thing I've noticed is the need for hands on, practical application of knowledge needed to be employable. The degree is nothing without real world experiences and samples of your work.

My Educated Input...for what it's worth,
-Erin