You might be debating between enrolling in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program as you consider returning for a second or even third degree. As you weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each type of program, let’s examine the potential prerequisites and requirements as well as the financial aid options available to you.
Do you really need a second degree? | Getting a second Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree
What is a master’s degree?
A master’s degree is a postgraduate degree in a particular field that demonstrates to employers that a graduate has in-depth knowledge of a subject. These programs typically take at least two years to complete. Prior to obtaining a master’s degree, a professional must hold a bachelor’s degree. In some professions, a bachelor’s degree in a particular subject may be required. For instance, a medical masters program might stipulate that applicants hold a bachelor’s degree in a science or health-related field.
What is a second bachelor’s degree?
A professional who already holds a bachelor’s degree may return to school to earn a second bachelor’s degree. There are a lot of colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s programs in different majors. Students typically need at least four years to finish these programs.
Some professions strongly encourage or demand a bachelor’s degree in a related field. To be eligible for a new position, some professionals choose to complete a second bachelor’s degree. For instance, if someone has a physics undergraduate degree but wants a job that calls for a business degree, they may decide to go back to school and get a second bachelor’s in a business-related field.
Benefits of getting a second bachelor’s degree
Depending on your field, interests, and background, earning a second bachelor’s degree may have a variety of advantages. Potential advantages include:
Advantages of getting a master’s degree
The benefits of earning a masters degree may include:
What to consider when deciding between the two?
When deciding which degree is best for you, take into account the following factors:
Career goals
Think about your career goals when deciding which degree is best for you. A second bachelor’s degree could give you more opportunities in a new industry if you’re interested in changing your career or making a significant shift. A master’s degree may give you more opportunities if you want to stay in your current field, get a promotion, or become eligible for more jobs. When creating an education plan, give some thought to your career objectives and go over the requirements for your desired position.
Credit rollovers
Students can transfer some credits from their first degree toward their second in some bachelor’s programs. This could help them save time and money. For instance, a school might take a student’s prerequisites and general education credits into account when granting a second bachelor’s degree. The pupil could then concentrate on particular subjects and advanced classes. When deciding which degree to pursue, think about researching particular institutions and programs to see if they permit credit rollovers. This can assist you in comparing the two options’ costs and timelines.
Financial opportunities
Each program may have its own financial costs and opportunities. Even though a bachelor’s degree may be less expensive than a master’s in a particular field, financial aid may occasionally only be available for the first bachelor’s degree. Examine the price and funding possibilities for both types of programs. You may explore fellowships, scholarships and student loan programs.
Other responsibilities
When selecting a degree type, it’s crucial to take your additional responsibilities into account. A masters program might offer more flexibility, depending on the institution and your area of concentration. Many schools offer graduate programs specifically for working professionals. You might be able to continue working full-time while taking evening and weekend classes. When selecting which program type is most suitable for you and your obligations, take into account researching the typical course schedule for each one.
Time commitment
You might want to select a shorter program if you have a deadline for achieving your career goal. A masters program is often shorter than a bachelors program. In order to learn more about the time requirements for each degree, think about reviewing your goals and looking into the programs in your area. When exploring these commitments, keep in mind whether you intend to complete the program full-time or part-time.
FAQ
Is it better to have 2 bachelors or a masters?
A second bachelor’s degree could give you more opportunities in a new industry if you’re interested in changing your career or making a significant shift. A master’s degree might give you more opportunities if you want to stay in your current field and get a promotion or qualify for more positions.
Is it a good idea to get a second bachelor’s degree?
A second degree can increase your chances of being accepted if your first degree is unrelated to the field in which you want to pursue a master’s degree. In contrast, if your GPA wasn’t great when you graduated, getting a second bachelor’s degree might help you improve your graduate school applications.
How many years is a 2nd bachelor’s degree?
The time it takes to obtain a second bachelor’s degree can range from two to four years of full-time study. However, transfer credits from your first bachelor’s degree may allow you to skip general education courses.
Can you get a masters and a second bachelors at the same time?
If you attend the fall, spring, and summer semesters, you can finish your master’s degree in one year if you take four classes per semester for three semesters. You could easily devote this much time to obtaining a second major while still an undergraduate. There is a ton of additional work you must complete in order to obtain a second major.
