Ask HN: Value of a second MS?

2 pointsybot15y ago2 comments

As is the case with many students, I am currently approaching the end of my undergraduate education and I am faced with a decision about what to do next. I am in the unusual position, however, of having blown through my coursework quickly enough to finish a 5 year combined BS/MS program in Electrical Engineering in my first 4 years of college meaning my undergraduate scholarships pay for my master's degree and make it, essentially, free.

I am interested in applying to a different graduate school when I graduate - I think there's still a lot of really interesting things for me to learn and a lot of really exciting programs out there. However, I don't feel like I necessarily want to get a PhD, and I am unsure what my other options are.

How much utility is there in getting a second MS in a related technical field, given that I'll already have earned one? Is this done often or at all?

2 comments

rmundo15y ago

A BS+MS in four years, congratulations,you're already ahead of the game. A second masters wouldn't hurt,especially if you have an interest in a multidisciplinary field where you can use both degrees (robotics, biotech, space). Is there a reason why you don't want to start your career in EE at this time? Depending on your program, a EE MS on its own might be strong enough to get a job doing somethig you really enjoy. So what is it that you enjoy doing?

The previous NASA administrator, Mike Griffin, managed to collect 7 masters degrees along his career, so if you just like to learn stuff and earn recognition for it, it's possible to do so while working as well.

luminary15y ago

I'd go with a PhD program that has a Master's exist. (You will still apply and get admitted as a PhD student with full funding.) This helps if you're bored with the faculty, dept. etc. or a company wouldn't mind converting your internship to a permanent position.

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