Master's Degree or Work Experience?

College Majors Engineering Majors
1

Hi- I’m currently in college but next year plan to transfer to either University of Louisville Speed School of Engineering OR University of Cincinnati to participate in their co-op program. I’d like some advice on what to do. Or if anyone has experienced either of these programs let me know how it was. Here are some factors to consider.

-I am pursuing a degree in Computer (hardware) Engineering
-Both programs are 5 years long (but I’ll transfer in with 30 credits)
-Both schools cost the same (without aid)
-U of L, I will graduate with a Bachelor’s and a Masters
-UC’s program is alternating between full time work and full time school
-At UC I will graduate with 4 years of work experience in my field
-UC will allow me to have a full time salary to assist with tuition/housing costs
-U of L will probably require ~$10,000 in loans after 4 years

I feel that UC is better in the short term. I get to take a break from education to actually get real world experience. I’ll graduate debt free and most likely come out with a job.

U of L will cost more. But I’ll have a Master’s, so in the long run I’ll end up making more money- right?

Any help is super appreciated. Thanks so much.

2

Does U of L not allow you to do a co-op as an undergrad?

Having a masters doesn’t automatically guarantee a higher salary, but it does open up opportunities to apply for positions where more advanced knowledge is needed – though typically such positions want work experience as well.

3

Getting a masters degree will impact you both with more interesting jobs and higher salary. Is there any reason you cannot be an intern during the summers?

4

I feel it important to point out that, just because a given program doesn’t require a co-op to graduate, that doesn’t mean that they don’t offer them. Most programs have co-op opportunities.

5

Wow, it never occured to me that most degree programs have co-op programs. I checked the website and it turns out 3 of the 14 semesters are dedicated to to co-op (no classes at all). Plus they have a work-study program which could help me pay for things.

Thanks for the advice, definitely set on getting that Master’s now.