<p>I'm studying computer science as an undergrad and am considering the possibility of going to grad school. What are the benefits of getting a masters degree in CS vs. entering the job market immediately after graduation?</p>
<p>I would also like some advice on this matter....I am an electronics undergraduate and I am considering a Masters degree in CS. How benificial is it??</p>
<p>I'm studying Applied Math/CS, and was thinking about getting a master's in CS as well. Anyone?</p>
<p>On most advice forums, broad questions that do not demonstrate attempts at independent resolution seldom receive useful replies. Plenty of articles have been written on "why grad school," which googling can reveal. The benefits of any graduate program are: </p>
<ul>
<li>completing the precursor to a PhD</li>
<li>the chance to study a subject in greater depth</li>
<li>a bump in starting salary </li>
<li>a resume enhancement that can open up otherwise unattainable positions. The NSA and Google (among otheres) prefer master's and PhD holders</li>
</ul>
<p>I don't think there are any secret amazing benefits unique to CS programs if that's what you seek. Read the course guides of CS programs that interest you and it should be pretty simple how the degree will benefit you. Taking graduate courses in AI will make you a better candidate for iRobot, etc. If you're just interested in salary differences, this UMich page should be applicable to graduates of comparable schools: <a href="http://career.engin.umich.edu/MISalary_06.htm%5B/url%5D">http://career.engin.umich.edu/MISalary_06.htm</a></p>
<p>I kept my question broad to allow people to answer however they saw fit. I have already done my own research by looking at many web sites that address this same question. By asking the question here, I was simply trying to get advice from people who have already gone through this process instead of reading the same information, which you so nicely repeated here, over and over in the articles.</p>
<p>As far as working in the industry, I would really suggest getting a M.S. in CS, because it will give you an edge professionally and the extra income surely wouldn't hurt. </p>
<p>I work in the defense industry where there are many people, old and young, going back to get at least a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, as well as Mathematics. There are even a couple who go on to pursue a PhD. Of course, there are some who go back to obtain an MBA, but that does not really help those with little work experience, such as new grads.</p>