**The Edvocate is pleased to publish guest posts as way to fuel important conversations surrounding P-20 education in America. The opinions contained within guest posts are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official opinion of The Edvocate or Dr. Matthew Lynch.**

A guest post by Anita Ginsburg
Recently, there has been much debate whether the benefits of a master’s degree outweigh the cost of obtaining one. Many experts claim that a master’s degree in certain subjects does not improve your salary significantly, making it not worth the cost of an education at the graduate level. However, there are reasons, other than a paycheck, to pursue your master’s degree.

Learning About Your Passion

Most people enter a career because they are passionate about it, whether that is teaching, management or nursing. By pursuing an education at the master’s level about a subject you are passionate about, you get to learn more about that subject. You develop a deeper understanding which can help you enjoy your career even more.

More Job Opportunities

In many industries, you cannot advance without higher education. Although there are some who argue that on-the-job experience is far more valuable than a graduate degree, the fact is that some industries require graduate level education in order to advance. By not getting that degree, you could risk limitations at your workplace. For example, getting an online master’s of education in higher education gives you the knowledge needed to obtain better jobs in teaching.

Career Change

For many people, a graduate degree represents the ability to move into a different career. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree, you can obtain a master’s degree in a completely different field by taking just a few extra classes. For example, if you obtained a bachelor’s degree in business and have discovered you have a fascination with law, you can earn your law degree in less time than if you did not have a degree.

Respectability

Although obtaining any college degree should command respect, earning a master’s degree will be recognized more quickly than an undergraduate degree. Employers are aware that obtaining a master’s degree is difficult, which is why they often respect those who complete graduate programs more than those who do not.

Networking

When you pursue a Master’s degree, you are exposed to industry leaders, either as faculty members or as part of the education process. This can help you build a network of colleagues which may lead to leadership roles in the future. In addition, your classmates will become part of your network and those connections can lead to promotions or job placements in the future.

Intellectual Growth

Graduate school provides intellectual stimulation and cognitive development. Just as regular exercise helps build physical strength, regular education can also build mental strength. Education helps you grow and expand your mind.

Leadership Skills

Graduate school helps you improve your leadership skills. Most graduate programs have requirements that push you into leadership roles. This can help you grow as an individual and provide potential employers with the knowledge that you are willing and able to be a leader in your chosen field.

There are many reasons to pursue a master’s degree beyond the increase in salary you may achieve by earning your diploma. These are just a few of the reasons many people choose to advance their education at the graduate level.