Is a Master’s Degree in IT Worth It?

Getting an MBA in Information Technology may look like a difficult decision to make. That’s because many people are satisfied with only getting a bachelor’s degree in IT, while still having entry-level positions and good salaries. But there’s also the other category of people who are not satisfied with an average of the success they can achieve. They aim for those management-level positions in information technology, and there’s nothing better than an MSC in IT to top up your skills.

If you are still wondering if a Master’s in Information Technology is worth it, then keep on reading.

What’s the Use of a Master’s in Information Technology Degree?

Recently, people involved in the tech industry are arguing whether they should pursue a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or a Master’s of Science in Information Technology (MSIT).

Generally, they know that such an investment will help them develop their skills in business and IT, respectively, but are unsure whether dedicating more of their time to education is a wise choice. Therefore, they are left pondering over questions such as “what can I do with a masters in information technology?” or “what extra opportunities will I have when completing an MBA program?”

Here at Potomac University, we believe that both degrees can prepare graduates for successful management careers in their future. However, these degrees we specified aren’t fully interchangeable. Depending on your background and career goals, choosing an MSIT vs. an MBA can give you unique managerial and technological skills.

The MSC IT degree value relies on its ability to expand your knowledge of concepts and techniques used in the information technology industry. Of course, you will learn some of the basics of Information and Technology with other relevant data through your bachelor’s degree. But that information might be very broad and not necessarily concentrated in the field you want to specialize in further ahead.

Whereas if you specialize in a field you’ve always wanted, you will learn how to use the latest technologies to solve problems of your area, whether that be business, health, education, government, and even entertainment. Overall speaking, the use of that Master’s degree will help you become a leader and innovator in several information technology-specific specializations.

Here are only some of these options:

• Computer Science
• Network Security
• Computer Networking
• Cyber Security
• Business Analysis
• Software Design and Development
• Systems Management
• Computer Applications
• IT Management

Reasons Why a Master’s Degree in IT is worth it

We know that you might feel reluctant to pursue a master’s degree because you will have to dedicate more time, money, and energy than you already have. It is wise not to rush into any important decisions and consider how well everything will pay off in the long run. So, before committing to a master’s degree in IT, let’s go through some of the reasons such a program would interest you.

1. It equips you with the latest relevant skills and knowledge. IT is an area that is constantly evolving, new inventions are made, and data keeps growing daily. So, pursuing a master’s degree will allow you to keep up with everything and upgrade your skill set to better match today’s IT world.
2. It will help you move up in your career. Nowadays, many higher positions nowadays require more qualifications. Obtaining a master’s degree in information technology is a safe path to follow if you desire to be promoted at your IT job.
3. It will give you an edge over your competition. Employers value people who are committed to their field and always working toward improving themselves. With a master’s degree, you will have one more valuable addition to your resume.
4. It provides you with opportunities to establish valuable network links. From fellow students to alumni and professors, you can create network opportunities you may benefit from in the future.
5. Better salary opportunities. Generally, earning prospects are higher among graduate students than undergraduates. If you obtain a master’s degree, you have better chances of securing better annual salaries.

Information Technology Careers & Salaries

All options related to Information Technology are certainly worth the shot and bring along enormous potential high figure salaries. According to study.com, a master’s degree program in Information Technology usually requires completion of about 30 credits and may cost you about $30,000. The time to complete your program is dependent upon whether you are a full- or part-time student. Luckily, nowadays, there are even part-time and online Master’s programs that could lower the opportunity costs for students and allow them to work simultaneously (Hint: Potomac University offers just that).

The stakes are high, considering that BLS concluded that the employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to grow 12 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for computer and information systems managers will grow as firms increasingly expand their business to digital platforms.

On top of everything stated so far, another reason why now is an excellent time to pursue information technology masters programs is the multitude of rewarding jobs and salaries associated with each one. Below, you can find out more about what career opportunities open up through your investment in IT.

Job Title	Median Salary (2017)*	Job Growth (2016-2026)*
Computer Systems Analyst	$88,270	9%
Network and Computer Systems Administrator	$81,100	6%
Software Developer	$103,560	24%
Computer Programmer	$82,240	-7%
Information Security Analyst	$95,510	28%

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

What’s the Program Overview of a Master’s in Information Technology?

Of course, each university has its curriculum and program built. However, the skills you will gain from the University of the Potomac’s Master of Science in Information Technology are exquisite. Our program provided students with an advantageous mix of cyber/network preparation, marketable leadership skills for planning and implementing critical computer activities in an organization and managing IT professionals. Our graduates will be empowered with the knowledge and skills required to work as IT managers or cybersecurity specialists in:

• U.S. business organizations and government agencies,
• Non-governmental organizations
• International entities.

Serving right to the hint we dropped above; you can earn your MSIT online or at one of our convenient campuses.

Skills You Will Receive Upon Graduation

Enrolling in an IT Master’s program provides you with a wealthy background construct. You can use all of them throughout your entire career, no matter if there are new or better technologies emerging. When you complete the master’s program, you will be endowed with a combination of diverse skills, which will allow you to take the passion you have for your field to a whole new level and make you more attractive to potential employers:

• Writing skills
• Research skills
• Communication and verbal skills
• Customer service
• Expertise in the area you specialized in while studying
• Project management
• Problem-solving skills
• Analytical skills
• Troubleshooting skills
• Organizational skills
• Computational skills
• Ethical skills

Ultimately, the answer to the question of whether a master’s degree in information technology is worth it or not depends on you. The path of graduate school is the best action for some students, whereas others might prefer to follow other courses of action. But, how would you know if it’s right for you? Simple, think about all that a master’s degree has to offer and compare that with what you are seeking. Remember to ask yourself questions like:

• What is my dream job?
• Will this degree help me achieve that dream job?
• Do I have time to make such a commitment right now?
• Do I have the energy to dedicate myself to such a degree program?
• Do I have the financial means to support my studies?
• Do I know any specific university program that would be a good fit for me?

Interested in learning more? Contact us for more information and let us help you make the right decision.