subject: Why A Masters Degree In Information Technology Is Still Relevant [print this page] Why A Masters Degree In Information Technology Is Still Relevant
With the many free self education resources available on the web today like MIT's Open Courseware, a lot of IT professionals are asking the same question, "Do we really need a masters degree?" or "Do we really need a Degree in Information Technology?"
The answer is definitely, "Yes."
In fact, many IT professionals who want to advance their careers and of course, their pay grades, do this not only to impress their employers about their academic achievements, but more importantly, they do this to enhance their knowledge and abilities.
You should know for a fact that the world of Information Technology, on its own, replete with bubbles and booms, is a fast changing industry. What you know today will surely be obsolete tomorrow. Go ahead and ask how many computer languages have been made obsolete since Bill Gates first sold Microsoft Windows and you'll probably be faced with a blank look, plus a general answer of "A lot."
Bleeding Edge Technology Comes From Bleeding Edge Knowledge
The academia is the source of most technological innovations. Research spending in various fields undertaken by graduate students and funded by corporations that you are probably working for now, remain the heart of the innovations in technology that has brought America to the forefront of the information revolution.
It's not just about practical application, it's about the synthesis of theory and practice that gives birth to new things, services, methodologies, and everything that makes up IT.
In a nutshell, it is what makes America the leader today.
Practically Speaking
In more down to earth terms, a Masters Degree in Information Technology, gives you that edge in knowledge and in marketability. It is a way of uplifting your personal brand. It is your way of saying, "I am qualified for promotion, not only because of my Masters Degree, but more importantly because I know how to use it to make your company more competitive today."
Compare that with this statement, "I have no masters degree and I am very happy working from 9 to 5, and would most likely retire in your company having achieved nothing at all except punch in the clock."
Now, if you are the employer how would you feel about the two statements.
Contrary to popular belief, a Masters in Information Technology is not just meant for career advancement. By immersing yourself back on a theoretical level, you will glean a unique perspective on the trends and the future changes that will rock your industry and company. You will be right where the action is. For instance consider this, who do you think is leading the way in the development of Quantum Computing? That's right. Graduate students.
You may read about it later on in Slashdot and come to know the general details surrounding the technology. But come implementation time, the ones directly working on that technology will be the ones who will reap the rewards of commercial implementation. What's that? In a word, monetization.
Right now, you will make a decision on whether to get a Master's Degree or not. Just be sure, that in the future that you won't regret the decisions you make.
