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Posted Nov. 21, 2012

Are Postgraduate Degrees Really Worth the Money?

With the British economy going down the pan the burning question on every potential student's mind is: Are Postgraduate Degrees Still Worth the Time and Money?

With entry level salaries for postgrads shrinking and employment rates at an all time low, it's easy to see why prospective students may be having a hard time understanding how postgraduate education could benefit them.

The good news is, that even in the face of adversity postgraduates still remain positive and confident that their degree has been well worth it. No matter what the naysayers claim, a postgraduate degree is still a big advantage in the fight against unemployment - with unemployment rates for those with only basic education rising drastically higher than for graduates.

So, should you take your chances without a degree or pursue postgraduate study in the hope that you will see a positive return on investment...

Career Prospects Although there is no guarantee that a postgraduate degree will secure you a job, it does offer a ray of hope in these times of financial strife and job uncertainty.

To study or not to study may not be as complicated as it seems. Master's and PhD degrees are becoming increasingly essential criteria for many industry sectors. It has been argued that a BA is the equivalent of having secondary school A Levels 20 years ago, and that these days recruiters require a higher degree.

Earning or Learning If your decision to learn is being affected by financial woes then fear not, as it doesn't have to be either or. Many universities now offer their postgraduate programs on a part-time basis , as well as online for those looking to find distance learning  opportunities.

On top of this, some part-time courses have been designed to deliver study in intensive blocks which take place during weekends, meaning little impact is incurred on a person's current employment, making study much more accessible.

Stand Out From the Crowd Postgraduate degrees offer students the chance to differentiate themselves in the increasingly competitive job market. If you're worried about making your CV stand out from the crowd, then a Master's or PhD will certainly do the trick.

Holding an MA or PhD demonstrates a degree of expertise and commitment to a particular field, which is an attribute highly prized by employers. Most postgraduate degrees also involve a period of work experience which can prove to be hugely valuable both during and after study, especially when it comes to making precious contacts.

With up to 70 graduates chasing every job  you need to do whatever it takes to get ahead, and a postgraduate degree might be just the thing!
 

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