<p>I am going to university in 2009 fall. I want to go into EE but I did not decide yet how to pursuit my engineering career. Should I get a BS and then just enter the workforce or get a MS first. Form my research I found that EE only make 10K more on average if they get a MS. Is it worth getting a MS in the long run? I not sure how the industry works but in the 2 years I get a MS I could get valuable work experience. btw I prefer to work in more practical projects. Im really not interested in theoretical projects. So what would be the best course of action? Salary, job security, and the amount of university loans I will owe are all import for me.</p>
<p>I also want to move up into management in my career. Where does a MBA fit in? Should I go into a 5 year BS/MBA program or work then get MBA?</p>
<p>You are looking at it correctly, and that is good. Education is not suppose to suppliment the career, use it along with experience to leverage your career position. I, personally, wouldn't bother with the 5 year BS/MBA program as it might take 5 years just to get the BS. Focus on getting a good gpa and a BS. If you have internships and really like the company or field than debate then going into the work force vs. MS. A MS in engineering is more focused, so you'll want to know if you like that industry before commiting to it. It could even work out that a company will want you to work for them while you earn your MS. Then, you'll have a MS and 2-3 years work experience which will make you a good candidate for MBA school.</p>
<p>Don't try and figure it all out right now, you aren't even in college. The only thing you have to decide, for yourself, is do you want a BS/MBA or a BS? I think you are too young and inexperienced to decide that right now. I would suggest a BS. Were you to start with an MBA you would lose the potential salary increase that comes with earning an MBA further along in your career.</p>
<p>Firstly, you can only take one step at a time. Worry about college now. Get good grades, have some fun, and figure out what i. you like to study and ii. what you want to do for the rest of your life. Also, KEEP YOUR GPA UP!</p>
<p>Then when you are done with college you can decide if you want to get a MS. A MS is great because you will gain a 'deeper' understanding of the matieral, which will allow you to function better as an engineer. Money is not everything - with increased education will come increased responsibility and more challenges. This will give you a more stimulating work enviroment.</p>
<p>Also, dont even think about an MBA now. That will come only after you have 1-5 years of work experience.</p>
<p>Figure it out later, after you've taken some classes and perhaps after you've done research or internships. I'm in my third year and I still don't know what to do (but I've learned much in three years). There's no hurry.</p>