We all know that education is the foundation for our careers. It doesn’t just stop at academic achievement, but also applies to a higher earning potential and personal development. But how will a master’s degree help you achieve your goals?

A master’s degree has various advantages. It may lead you to earn a much higher income, advance your career opportunities, gain high-level subject matter knowledge and give you a sense of accomplishment. While all these factors are significant drivers, embarking on the path to your master’s degree does take dedication, time and money.

Deciding whether a master’s degree is worth the sacrifice ultimately depends on your educational, personal and professional goals, and what resources you have at your disposal.

For some specialized jobs, a master’s degree is a requirement, and many of those jobs offer salaries that will make the additional investment into your education worthwhile. Getting your master’s may be the best investment into your future. We can help you decide if getting your master's degree is worth it.

Do I Need a Master’s Degree for My Dream Job? 

We all want the dream job: the role that keeps us engaged and gives us a sense of purpose and fulfillment. But does your dream job require a master’s degree? If not, evaluate your reasons for wanting to get qualified. Instead of getting your master's, you could better spend your time and money on courses and upskilling.

However, if the job you want requires it, prepare yourself for the educational journey of a lifetime. You may be able to bypass specific requirements for some jobs and occupations, but some demand a master’s degree, with no exceptions. 

If you want a particular role, look at job postings to see what they mention under preferred qualifications. If a master’s degree is one of them, invest in obtaining it. Candidates with the right qualifications are often chosen over those without preferred degrees.

Is It Financially Viable?

To answer this, you need to weigh the cost of obtaining your master’s degree against the income potential after earning it. We all know that getting your master’s degree can be expensive. On the flip side, a master's degree may be worth the cost. Investigate ways to fund your education and look at it like any other monetary commitment - as an investment.

If your chosen profession does not require a master’s and the salary increase isn't viable – the degree may not be the right fit. However, if positions you have been applying to list it as a preferred qualification, earning your master’s will be a step in the right direction to professional success.

Consider the return on investment. Research the salaries of jobs that require a master’s degree versus those that don't. Compare the salaries and decide if it makes financial sense.

Can I Afford it?

While we don’t want to hammer on about money, Webster University believes that financial challenges should not get in the way of earning your degree or taking the next step in advancing your career.

If you have researched your potential income stream after receiving your master’s and have found the investment worthwhile, please reach out to inquire about our various financial aid options. Webster Ghana is committed to making your college education doable and affordable.

Will I expand my network?

In short – yes! Earning your master’s degree is an experience, not just an investment into your education (although that is a critical part). It is mainly about the valuable connections you make along the way. Your classmates and professors can expand your network, leading to new and rewarding opportunities.

"Networking is a lot like nutrition and fitness: we know what to do, the hard part is making it a top priority." - Herminia Ibarra

Can I Work and Study Part-Time? 

To finance their education, some candidates may have to keep working full time while they earn their master's degree, but this can be hard to juggle. Balancing your education with a full-time job requires solid time-management skills and support from your employer.

You may want to get your master’s degree online, and if so, studying at night and on weekends may be your best option.

What We Think

Time is a resource you cannot get back, and your master’s degree can take anywhere between one and three years to complete. If you are hesitant to take the next step due to family responsibilities, you must discuss your decision with those close to you to ensure you have their full support in this phase of your life. Make sure the program you choose has flexible online options for you to consider. 

Unlike time, money does come back. We have many options for you to fund a brighter future for yourself.  At Webster, we are committed to answering your unmet needs, and scholarships are integral to students' access and success. 

If you would like more information or resources to help you decide if doing your master’s degree is worth it, contact us.  We will provide you with access to more than 160 undergraduate and graduate programs to suit your goals and lifestyle.