Degree

Question

I have 6 years experience in the HR field, I have recently decided to finish my BA with a major in Psych and a minor in Human resources. I will finish in August. I was recently contacted to see if I had any interest in a Masters' certificate program in HR through Central Washington University.  It is an extra year, which would be fine. I am just wondering if this is worth it. Or do employers really only want  a Master's Degree?

Erin Howard-Reid · Answer

The honest answer is an annoying one: It Depends...

I would trust your gut. Do you want the master's for your personal values or to gain more knowledge? Or, is it specifically for getting more income? The reason I ask is if it's only for the latter, there's usually not a guarantee you'll make more money.

Either way be sure to trust your gut – and get good information first to help make a good “gut” decision.

If there is a specific company or employer you’re targeting with your new education, it wouldn’t hurt to go on their websites and read their requirements for differing positions in HR. You can even use LinkedIn to “stalk” people at those companies and try to meet for coffee and do an informational interview. It can’t hurt to see what their employees are saying to see if the master's will be beneficial.

You can also ask the admission reps and the program’s professors for an email list of alumni you can network with. A simple email with, “if you could do the program over again, would you?” would get you great information.

I hope that helps!

Elissa Unton · Answer

More education is totally worth it if you HAVE to have it to do exactly what you want to do.    At ArcVida, we have a 'bridgebuilder' track -- where you spend a few months either confirming you do need and want to go for graduate education OR deciding what alternate path will be better for you.

Sue DeRosier · Answer

It truly depends on the position and the company. I have been in marketing and internal communications for most of my career, and the only reason I would ever need an MBA is if I intended to climb the ladder to director or above.  Most marcom/communication professionals have bachelors, maybe some specialized certificates.

ROSALIE DAY · Answer

I also would look on LinkedIn - Erin gave you great advice. It is company specific.

In general, large companies either want a masters degree or want you to learn their issues steeped in corporate culture. Small-midsize companies want a generalist in HR.

Monica C Tomchick · Answer

Thank you, that does help. More money is always nice, however, this would be for me to learn more and feel more secure in my abilities.  Also, to be qualified for the type of business's that I am shooting for.

Degree

You're invited.

See what women are sharing on Fairygodboss.