The University of Worcester (and numerous other Higher Education Institutions) offer MA level qualifications.I am currently going through the process of deciding whether a Masters is right for me. Will it improve my employability and is it necessary in the graduate jobs market? I think this depends on what sector you want to go into and whether you have any employment experience alongside studying.
My thinking on this is that an employer does want an employee with a high level of education but not an employee that is just educated. As I love to learn, I think that a part-time MA alongside full-time employment would be right for me. So what things have I considered?
- Do I want to study any more? After a three year slog to get my BA, I can understand why some people may want a break from studying. Nevertheless, a MA is something that you can come back to.
- Will it benefit my future career? Some people like the student life and dream of staying a student forever, studying an MA as they can not find graduate employment. You need to think whether an MA in your chosen field is beneficial and whether an employer will see an enhancement?
- Do I want to do a full MA? You can enrol on the PG-cert,PG-dip or full MA. I have chosen to enrol on PG-cert and then I can apply to the subsequent years afterwards. I think relieves some of the pressure.
- Funding for the course? Unfortunately, there is no student finance for the MA. However, if you are a current University of Worcester student and wish to continue studying here, you can get reduced fees. I have also found this website extremely good for alternative sources of funding: http://www.prospects.ac.uk/funding_postgraduate_study.htm
- Shall I do it part-time or full-time? I think is dependent on circumstances and what is right for you. Personally, I have a home to support so it is not possible for me to do it full-time. If I study part-time the time requirements are quite flexible so I can do the PG-cert over two years. This will also help with funding.
These are my own personal opinions. Please visit the university's website to find out more details about studying a MA or First Point in the Pierson Centre for a career's appointment.
