College is now attainable for most adults. Part-time, online courses, and evening courses have removed major barriers to obtaining a Bachelor's degree. Employers still need a measuring stick to identify candidates willing to go the extra mile. In many professions, that extra mile is a Master's degree.
Traditional universities are capitalizing on the increased demand for graduate degrees. Conventional wisdom always recommended college students get a graduate degree at a different institution than where their undergraduate degree was completed. This advice is becoming little more than a kudos as a college education is more about transitioning into a career rather than remaining in academia.
One of the biggest bangs for the undergraduate's buck is a 5 year Master's degree program at their undergraduate college or university. Students interested in a 5 year program should know and declare their degree intentions early. Most 5 year Master's degree programs have strict tracks for course offerings. Deviating from the recommended course tracks, even as early as the first semester, will tack on extra time needed to complete the program.
Popular 5 year Master's degrees include teaching degrees, nursing degrees, and business degrees. 5 year programs are typically offered for the professions most often requiring a Master's degree for entry to mid-level employment. Universities then use this as a selling point to potential students considering another school. Why go somewhere else and take 6 years to get two degrees when we can get you there in 5 years?
A Master's degree is still meaningless without qualified work experience. A savvy college student entering into a profession keen on graduate degrees should look for a 5 year Master's program with a paid internship included in the degree structure. Remember, education is only learning about doing something. Employers want to see qualified candidates with the proper education who can also demonstrate they can do the work.
