Am I old to start a Masters degree in Engineering?

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SUMMARY

Starting a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering at age 29 is not considered too old, as many students in graduate programs are in their late 20s, 30s, or even 40s. Age discrimination typically begins around age 40, making 29 a competitive age for job applicants. Employers prioritize experience over age, meaning a 29-year-old with a Bachelor's degree and relevant work experience may be more attractive than one with a Master's degree but no practical experience. Pursuing a Master's degree part-time while gaining work experience is a recommended strategy.

PREREQUISITES
  • BEng degree in Electronics Engineering
  • Understanding of Electrical Engineering principles
  • Familiarity with graduate school application processes
  • Knowledge of job market trends in engineering fields
NEXT STEPS
  • Research part-time Master's programs in Electrical Engineering
  • Explore job opportunities that value experience over advanced degrees
  • Network with professionals in the engineering field
  • Investigate the impact of age on employment in engineering sectors
USEFUL FOR

Recent graduates in engineering, professionals considering a career change, and individuals contemplating further education in engineering fields.

shpongle
I have recently finished BEng degree in Electronics Engineering, I am 25 years old now. I am thinking of applying for a MS in Electrical Engineering starting in 2016, by the time I graduate I will be 29!

Is it very old, are there any chances to get employment in a related field or do employers only prefer young graduates?
 
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No it isn't too old. I'd say it's above average but when I was in graduate school we had four or five students in their late 20s (mostly ex-military),several students in their 30s and one in his 40s.

The age discrimination thing doesn't really get going until you're around 40 or so.
 
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Try using the "Search" function. There are quite a few posts here asking this question and the answer is always no, it is not too late.
 
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I finished my MS in electrical engineering at the age of 31. It launched me into a better job in a great field. In 2016 you'll be 29 with or without the degree, right?
 
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With all the changes in the economy in recent years, it's not uncommon to see much older students going back to school because their previous profession is no longer in demand. There is some age discrimination, but at 29 you will still be viewed as very young compared to applicants attempting a career change in their 40s or 50s.
 
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shpongle said:
I have recently finished BEng degree in Electronics Engineering, I am 25 years old now. I am thinking of applying for a MS in Electrical Engineering starting in 2016, by the time I graduate I will be 29!

Is it very old, are there any chances to get employment in a related field or do employers only prefer young graduates?

No way that is too old. You realize many Physics PhDs and PostDocs around that age will start looking for non academia jobs working along MEngs at that age or older.
 
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shpongle said:
I have recently finished BEng degree in Electronics Engineering, I am 25 years old now. I am thinking of applying for a MS in Electrical Engineering starting in 2016, by the time I graduate I will be 29!

Is it very old, are there any chances to get employment in a related field or do employers only prefer young graduates?


You are more likely to not be hired because you don't have experience. A 29 year old with just a Bachelors degree and 4 years of proven experience will be more valuable than a 29 year old with an MS. In that respect age is not a factor. My advice, work and do your MS part time.
 
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