Is this a good reason for me to pursue a Masters degree in mechanical engineering?

Question

I already have my Bachelors degree in mechanical engineer and have worked as an aerospace engineer for 2 years at a medium sized defense contractor (who is willing to pay for my graduate tuition).

I researched a good program that fits my needs. I can go to class at night and take only one class at a time. However, the classes are still going to be intense and I the only reason I would be pursuing the degree would be:

(1) because I want to advance higher in my company quciker than my peers

(2) a little more money is always nice. I am married and am expecting children in the next 5-10 years.

The above don't sound like good reasons but I do have a keen interest in intense mathematical rigor. I work in the advanced materials stress analysis group at my company, but it is not the main reason why I want to pursue the degree.

I just don't feel like stressing myself and my wife out. Is it really worth it for the reasons I list above?

Answer 1

Your logic and reasoning are correct, in my opinion.  Do it while you still *don't* have kids.  Especially if your company is paying for it!  That's a huge benefit to you.  Beware the caveat though.... they may require you work for them for a certain length of time after paying for classes, to recover their investment.

I took graduate classes in EE after 20 years and found that they came very easy (with all the things I had learned on-the-job over the years).

Your dad is correct, for the most part.

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