Does a Master's degree mean better chance at mega corps (FAANG or others) and generally broader growth opportunities?

Datto, Inc. / Design
exaparsec

Go to company page Datto, Inc. Design

exaparsec
Jul 23, 2020 4 Comments

First off I understand that in tech and UX, experience is the undisputed king, yet I can't help but notice that those with Master's degrees from reputable institutions seem to have a bit of an advantage. Does this make sense? Is a Master's degree a project worth investing time and money in?

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TOP 4 Comments
  • Apple
    gescl

    Go to company page Apple

    gescl
    No, your portfolio is still king.

    The master students will have a better portfolio than a new grad bachelor’s student however. So they’re more likely to land a new grad/ict3 position.

    From talking to coworkers and friends we value 2 years of real world UX experience more than a masters.

    If you can’t find a job currently (or if you have an unrelated bachelors) a master might be worth it to get a foot in the door. Once you have a foot in, work on improving your own craft instead of paying $$ for a masters.

    Growth to IC/manager design higher positions doesn’t matter at all. Some of my coworkers are even self taught! They just have killer portfolios. If you want to transition to PM you might consider a MBA but idk if that’s really a requirement either.

    Side note this is not UX Researchers. Some UX research jobs require/greatly prefer masters or phds.
    Jul 23, 2020 0
  • HPE / R&D
    J Bourne

    Go to company page HPE R&D

    J Bourne
    Is late 20s or early 30s too late for getting a MS degree?
    Jul 23, 2020 1
    • Datto, Inc. / Design
      exaparsec

      Go to company page Datto, Inc. Design

      exaparsec
      OP
      I'd say that's a sweet spot for a Master's, by that age you probably have good experience to make the most out of the Master's program via exploring really advanced topics. At least that's how I imagine it.
      Jul 23, 2020
  • VC & Private Equity Firm
    krxc28

    VC & Private Equity Firm

    krxc28
    Yes it is
    Jul 23, 2020 0