Computer Information Systems Manager: Do I Need a Graduate Degree?
For many people, attaining their bachelor’s degree is just the beginning. Some people prefer to continue their education and get their Master’s in Information Systems. However, graduate school isn’t for everyone.
Entering a graduate program is one of the most important decisions that you’ll ever make that will affect your life for the next 2 to 3 years financially, emotionally, and mentally. Therefore, you shouldn’t take it lightly.
How to Tell if You’re Ready to Earn Your Graduate Degree
Do I go to grad school or not? For most people who have just completed their bachelor’s degree and those who are about to, this is one of the questions they ask themselves. Deciding to go to graduate school is a great decision and might be the best you will ever make. Before you join, here are five ways to help determine whether you’re ready for grad school.
You know what you want to study
This doesn’t mean that you should know the exact topic of your dissertation paper before you apply. However, you should have a field of interest that you feel confident you’ll be able to study without growing bored. Computer information systems is one of the most interesting areas of study, and having an interest in it will make your application stronger.
You’re financially prepared
Make sure you are financially ready to go back to school. It's an investment in your future, but if you are not able to handle the additional student loans or payments, it might not be the best time for you to head back to school.
Prospects after grad school
While you may not think about what will come after grad school, it’s important to do so. Research what you want to do with your degree after graduate school. Although some fields such as law and business are a no-brainer and attract lots of applicants, they are becoming more saturated.
You’re well-prepared for the academic challenge
You may panic if you have been out of school for some years, the coursework and pace may catch you off-guard. Even students straight from undergrad school experience problems adjusting. Graduate classes are tougher than undergrad and have readings and assignments that are more challenging.
Additionally, they have significantly higher academic expectations. Unlike an undergraduate degree program where you’ll be required to maintain a C average, most undergraduate programs generally require you to maintain a B average in each of your classes. Any lower grade and the class will have to be retaken.
You’re passionate about your field of study
This is one of the most important factors when deciding to attend graduate school. Because graduate school is both demanding and time-consuming, if you aren’t passionate about what you’re studying, you may become miserable and lack the endurance to complete your degree. Choosing a field of study that you’re truly passionate about will make grad school fun for you.
Ready to go Back to School in Information Systems and Move into a More Demanding Position?
When you think about Computer Information Systems (CIS), you may envision a person sitting behind a computer all day, coding an endless string of zeros and ones. However, a CIS career looks much different from what most imagine. A graduate degree program could give you the opportunity to combine both people skills and advanced technical knowledge to help you positively impact organizations. Some of the signs that you should pursue a graduate degree include:
You often lead your coworkers: If you’re a natural leader, then grad school will help further develop those leadership skills.
You consider yourself a lifelong learner: If you’re a naturally curious person, then you will enjoy learning. You could stimulate your mind by enrolling for a MIS graduate program.
You’re eyeing a job position that requires an advanced degree: To get that management position, you should highly consider a graduate degree to excel at the position and have a shot at a career you might truly enjoy.
Do you currently work in a computer science-related field and want to move forward? If you want to earn a Master of Science in Information Systems, ECPI University offers this degree program at an accelerated rate. For more information, connect with a friendly admissions officer today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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