PhD versus 2nd Masters

[burbuja0512]

I don't know, PhD is attractive, but unless someone else funds it I don't think I'll go down that road. By fund it I mean both the cost of the program and the associated costs like my time.

I like the concept of Masters Certificates and 2nd Masters degrees very much. I would add that I would want them from the most solid well known schools possible though. I like the programs I'm seeing from flagship universities like Penn State and the University of Florida, a cert or degree from one of them would shine the resume, I want access to alumni networks and the attention of hiring managers that love college football, lol. I also really like the innovative programs like those offered through Harvard Extension...I am coming to believe that the Harvard brand is like a size 15 tasseled loafer in the door. Hiring managers seem to bring them in just to see if they are all that...and end of the day that's why most of us go to school...to polish the resume and get our foot in the door of the next opportunity.

I agree with you on getting the shiny brand name on the resume. A college degree meets a check box and frankly, I don't think that a Big 3 degree is any better or worse than your average college. (with the exception being when you attend the LOCAL state U. People love the local state U, but if you move, any advantage is gone)

My Big 3 check-box degree has been overshadowed by my rather cool masters program. My MBA university was well-known and respected in Colorado, but not nationally so I would love to have a top name on the resume. I don't know how much it would increase the chances of me advancing my career significantly, but it would boost my ego. ha ha ha.. no seriously, there are times and places where a top degree will help. Overall, I think they're totally unnecessary, but I am fairly certain that if I go back to school, I would strongly consider the college brand as a top factor in my decision.

I don't think that my thought would be the right choice for everyone, but hey, we're talking about totally "unnecessary" education anyhow, so why not think of an ideal scenario?