BSE vs. MSE in Materials Science Engineering?

D finished sophomore year as a Materials Science Engineering student last month. When she came home she was talking about applying to stay for an extra 2 or 3 semesters after her BSE to add an MSE, also in Materials Science Engineering. That was the first time she has mentioned that.

Are there any engineers out there who can give me some insight into how beneficial this is? Does it open more job possibilities? Are MSE’s considered to be stronger job candidates? Do MSE’s get paid any better? Do they tend to get more interesting work? Are they more likely to be promoted? Is there some other benefit I am not considering?

In general, it seems like a good idea to me, because she will learn more during that time and she enjoys it. However, I am not an engineer, and don’t understand the benefits at all.

Any insights would be appreciated!

There are pros and cons.

Many say to join the workforce, determine what really interests you, and then return to get the MS on your employer’s dime. There are problems with that though. First, you have to land a job with that benefit. Then you have to want to go back, after you’ve been out. Many do it, but it is easier said than done, especially if one starts a family. Lastly, you have to live in an area that has a program you like. Sure, there are online options, and rare companies that will pay for a sabbatical, but that’s not something you can count on.

The disadvantage to continuing straight through is twofold (maybe more). First, students often don’t have an appreciation for what really interests them. Second, companies may not want to commit a higher wage to someone they will be fully training themselves anyway (I think this is pretty rare).

That said, the MS will generally command a higher starting salary, because having a MS probably makes a candidate more productive, as they have a broader tool kit to expand on. That translates through an entire career.

My son decided to stay for the MS. His experience was a little different because he was ahead and started graduate level classes at the end of his third year. He couldn’t get out early though due to the staging of Senior Project. He will be done with both in 5 years or less. It was really too efficient for him not to elect that route.

Hope that helps.