Going for an Associate's after a Master's?

Paying for College
1

<p>Okay, so I know this seems...well...ridiculous, but such is today's economy.</p>

<p>I have a Master's Degree that is all but useless. Jobs are non-existent in my field, I've tried for years to find something (but I've only had my M.A. for about 6 months) and have had very little luck, outside of a few small paying jobs that I would have to move cross-country for, and don't have the money.</p>

<p>So I'm thinking about going back to school for something "practical," like Programming. I know you don't NEED a degree in Computer Programming to work in the field, but teaching myself is simply taking too long and is too unfocused. </p>

<p>Can I qualify for Pell Grants and that sort of thing if I already have a Master's? Usually people go for second-master's, not an Associate's, but I'm not finding any Master's program that would get me a job. I'd like to not add more debt to my student loans, even if the program is "relatively" cheap. I'm sure I fit the bill financially for a Pell Grant, but not sure if having a Master's somehow disqualifies me.</p>

2

<p>No Pell grants after first B.S./B.A. degree.</p>

3

<p>No, it’s not ridiculous, but you cannot get Pell grants as 4kidsdad says. My cousin did exactly what you are thinking of doing and it did pay off. He had a masters in history and went back to get a Computer Programming certificate, not Associate’s . Look for certificate programs as they are not as redundant and seem to do the same thing.</p>

4

<p>Thanks for the advice! It’s reassuring to know that someone else did exactly the same thing I’m thinking of and it worked for them. Time to find a good certificate program.</p>