As graduation soon approaches seniors are debating their next steps once they leave UT’s comforting arms. Life after graduation can seem scary and uncertain. Typical paths of alumni include entering the workforce or continuing higher education. As a senior myself, I have been investigating my options and reviewing master programs.
The number of individuals receiving a master’s degree is increasing around the world, especially in The United States. According to The National Center for Educational Statistics “Between 2010–11 and 2020–21, the total number of master’s degrees conferred increased by 19 percent, from 730,900 to 866,900 degrees.” As more jobs require bachelor’s and master’s degrees, employees are going back to school. The process is significantly easier if you jump straight into a master’s program instead of taking time off.
The degree is useful in all categories of life including professional, personal, and academic. A master’s degree is a graduate degree that usually takes two years to earn depending on the program. It’s similar to the structure of a bachelor’s degree, consisting of lectures, seminars, group work, essays, and exams.
People pursue master’s degrees for a variety of reasons and many benefits. To start, earning a master’s means an increased salary and more job opportunities. Higher-paying leadership positions may require a master’s degree as a qualification. This also gives a competitive edge when applying for jobs in your field. Tampa has a very competitive job market with numerous qualified candidates, so having a master’s is a great advantage.
During any master’s program, networking opportunities are available with professors, professionals in the field, and peers. Attending conferences is often a common occurrence and leads to future career opportunities. In addition, this is a great way to explore research projects or studies.
Focusing on a specialization allows people to have a deeper understanding of their field and can enhance critical thinking skills. In some professions like social work and teaching a master’s is needed for credentialing. Personal fulfillment is a big influence as well, completing the degree is a hard-earned accomplishment.
The application process is similar to applying for college. A bachelor’s degree along with a minimum GPA from the program is needed. Not all schools require it, but the most common entrance exams include the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), Law School Admission Test (LSAT), and the Medical College Test(MCAT). Most applications request students to submit a letter of intent explaining why they
want to be in the program. Letters of recommendation from professors and mentors are vital as well.
After submitting your application, a board of committees at the school will review your content. If you decide to apply, my biggest tip is to try and stand out. The board is reviewing so many applications, so be unique and yourself.
Most four-year colleges offer master programs. For students keen on staying in the area, UT has 18 master’s degrees, ranging from educational leadership to nursing. The University of South Florida, our neighboring college, has more than 150 programs located in both Tampa and St. Petersburg. Saint Leo University located north of Tampa in St. Leo has 28 master’s programs.
A master’s degree could be a great route for students after completing their bachelor’s at UT. Continuing school will lead to higher-paying jobs and networking opportunities. Overall, the decision to pursue the degree should be based on careful consideration and extensive research.