Masters in structural engineering? 1

[Jsmith5577]

I'm currently working for a decent sized firm that hired me right when I graduated in may 2012 with a bachelors in civil engineering. I graduated in the top 5% of my class, not that that means a lot when you get out into the real world. I've been with the company for about 6 months basically entering data into a computer, something that someone with an associates degree in drafting or an intern could do. I recently got accepted into the ms program at the university I graduated from and they are offering me a job which will pay for my tuition as well as a stipend. I'm basically at a crossroad of whether or not I should leave my current job to pursue my masters. I feel that the opportunity is too good to pass up and I would rather do it now being only one semester removed from school rather than later on down the road. At the same time I feel that giving up a job, especially in today's economy could come back to haunt me later in life. I also feel that research and teaching may be a field I would like to get into, so obtaining a phd may be in my future if I find that is something I would like to pursue.

I'm basically just looking for advice on how to approach my situation or a different perspective on it. Thanks

 

[hokie66]

Go for it...after you learn how to operate the shift key.

 

[Jsmith5577]

On my iPad. I'm well aware how that guy works though. Thank you for your concern.

 

[Qshake]

Again, Go for it! In structures many companies hire only at the MS level now and so obtaining your advanced degree will be better in the long run and will permit you to sit out the economy (assuming it gets better). It's only two years unless you're bound for the piled higher and deeper.

Regards,
Qshake

Eng-Tips Forums:Real Solutions for Real Problems Really Quick.

 

[kylesito]

I'm not a big proponent of getting a master's unless you want to stay in research or get a degree in something complimentary (ie, you got a general civil degree and you go for a Structural MS...or MBA, etc). However, if someone is wiling to pay you for it, all bets are off. You should take advantage of this while it's offered...especially if you aren't being challenged in your current job.

PE, SE
Eastern United States

"If a builder builds a house for someone, and does not construct it properly, and the house which he built falls in and kills its owner, then that builder shall be put to death!"
~Code of Hammurabi

 

[structSU10]

My situation is a bit different, but maybe it will give you some insight. I graduated in May 2010, got a job as a structural straight out of school. I started designing straight away, and come fall of 2011 I began taking masters courses. I have to say that having some experience has made a lot of the topics covered in the courses I've taken (3 thus far) much easier to understand. Something about knowing the construction process, how a building is laid out, and probably just doing it 8 hours a day everyday, makes the material richer.

I did not have the oppurtunity you had, but my employer is paying for my education. It will take me a total of 5-6 years to complete my masters going this route as well.

 

[Jsmith5577]

Thanks for the replies everyone. I definitely feel like I am leaning towards going back in the spring, it is just a matter of me actually leaving my current employer (I've never quit a job my whole life). While in school I'm going to try to teach myself to become more proficient in different structural analysis programs since they will be readily available to me in the computer labs. I feel that that is one thing (among others) that undergrad did not prepare me for when I got into the real world. Also, I'm looking into getting an internship for the following summer, or possibly a research job with a professor at the University I will be attending.