I'm interested in people’s opinion on the question: Is pursuing an advanced degree (Masters, Phd etc.) after the age of 50 worth it?
I am no one
149
08/29/21 at 5:55PM UTC
I also think it depends on what you are looking for out of an advanced degree - do you want it to help you get a better job or open opportunities in the workforce, or do you want it to increase your own knowledge and skills independent of a job? That likely also depends on the type of degree. I got my master's in creative writing at 50, and now at 60, I'm studying for a copyediting certificate. The first was just for me - I wanted to improve my writing and network with professionals in the field. The latter is to improve my skills and work full time in my editing business.
Lily Lee
11
08/22/21 at 7:54PM UTC
I have thought about this many times over the last few decades...certifications and degrees alike. My advice is to think about your life goals and a timeline...both personal and professional.
After you have a sense of direction say for your career, does it require an advanced degree to get to the position you want? Going back to school requires time, money and dedication. Are there other options to gain the knowledge or experience that you want? Else, if not required, then no need, unless it's for personal goal of learning and attaining that degree.
Fortunately, I have not needed it. With raising two kids as a single parent, it was also not an option at the time financially. Now, as I'm contemplating retirement in 10 years, I don't see the need for it. I am grateful to many people that I've met in my career, where I've had opportunities to learn. I also believe in constantly improving my own knowledge and skills, so one should remain curious always and take every experience as a learning opportunity.
Good luck to whatever it is you want to pursue!
Rhonda RondeauProduct Manager in Pasadena,CA
384
08/22/21 at 5:32AM UTC
If you have the money, resources, time.. do it
Rhonda RondeauProduct Manager in Pasadena,CA
384
08/22/21 at 5:26AM UTC
.................................oh gawd, I cannot answer this.
Judy SchoenbergCatalyst for women's career development
272
08/21/21 at 10:22PM UTC
This is a question we get often from women in career transition in midlife. It’s a good one! Only after you have evaluated your skills and what you love to do should you consider going back to school. Often women skip over the self-reflection needed to assess whether you do need to skill up with another advanced degree. Of course if you see you need the degree for what you want to do after that consideration, go for it!
Anonymous
08/21/21 at 7:34PM UTC
Do it, I commented below. I am 51 and completing my dissertation to submit in a few weeks time. Well worth the effort.
Rhonda RondeauProduct Manager in Pasadena,CA
384
08/22/21 at 5:27AM UTC
Good for you!
Melody Hawkins
11
08/21/21 at 6:09PM UTC
I think that if it something that you want to do and it will bring you joy, then go for it. Sometimes we pursue these degrees for ourselves and I think that is wonderful! If it will require you to go into debt, though, I may advise against it.
Sushma D.A. Hallock, MBA, MADiversity, Equity and Inclusion
56
08/21/21 at 3:17PM UTC
Yes! I think it's more about what the person wants, and not what other people think. I love to learn, but that's my thing. I just feel blessed to be in a country where I can go to school, and have a voice.
Dr. Trelaunda Beckett-Jones Transformational Leader, Wife, Mom of Multiples
126
08/21/21 at 1:26PM UTC
Absolutely! I’m excited to share that my mother fulfilled a dream…yes, a dream of obtaining all three college degrees, Bachelor, Masters and Doctorate in a ten-year period (age 50s-60s). I could not have been more proud. She sacrificed for me and our family and supported me while I was obtaining my own degrees. She even said she became motivated by watching me work and take care of my children all while attending school. So she figured if my daughter can do it, then I can do it. I was her biggest supporter and guide all throughout her educational journey. You are never too old to obtain a degree. Education bears absolutely no bearing on age. Why not get your degree? This may be the best time for you! Go out there and accomplish the things you may have put off…like getting your degree! It’s waiting for you!
