Should I do my Masters on something more specific than my degree?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decision of pursuing a master's degree in a specific area of mechanical engineering versus a broader field. Participants explore the implications of specialization on employment opportunities and job market dynamics within the fields of thermo-fluid mechanics, aeronautics, and the oil and gas industry.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that a specific master's degree may limit employment opportunities but could lead to more advanced job positions.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about job prospects in thermo-fluid mechanics and the competitive advantage of candidates with a broader master's degree in Advanced Mechanical Engineering.
  • Questions are raised about the job market size in aeronautics and oil and gas, including the qualifications required for specific positions and whether a master's in mechanical engineering would suffice for roles at companies like Boeing.
  • Another participant emphasizes the need for balance in specialization, noting that over-specialization might restrict future career flexibility.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the impact of specialization on employment opportunities, with no consensus reached on the best approach to choosing a master's program.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention uncertainties regarding job availability and qualifications, highlighting the need for further research into specific job markets and requirements.

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering a master's degree in engineering, particularly in mechanical engineering, and those interested in the implications of specialization on career opportunities.

socrates_1
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Hi,I am studying mechanical engineering and I am going to apply for my masters in a few months.However, I am wondering if I should do my masters in Advanced Mechanical Engineering or in Fluid mechanics & Power Cycles.
What do you think?If I do my masters in something more specific, is this going to limit my employment opportunities?
thank you.
 
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In my opinion getting a specific masters will limit your employment opportunities. However it will open more advanced jobs as well.
 
socrates_1 said:
Hi,I am studying mechanical engineering and I am going to apply for my masters in a few months.However, I am wondering if I should do my masters in Advanced Mechanical Engineering or in Fluid mechanics & Power Cycles.
What do you think?If I do my masters in something more specific, is this going to limit my employment opportunities?
thank you.

so you have no idea what kind of job or field you'd like to work in?
 
Raioneru said:
so you have no idea what kind of job or field you'd like to work in?

Thank you for your reply.I know that I want a job related in thermo-fluid mechanics.Either in aeronautics and aerodynamics or in the oil and gas industry.However, I am not really sure that I will find the job I want(like everyone). If I do my masters on something specifc, when applying for other engineering positions, candidates with Masters in Advanced Mechanical Engineering will have an advance.
 
socrates_1 said:
Thank you for your reply.I know that I want a job related in thermo-fluid mechanics.Either in aeronautics and aerodynamics or in the oil and gas industry.However, I am not really sure that I will find the job I want(like everyone). If I do my masters on something specifc, when applying for other engineering positions, candidates with Masters in Advanced Mechanical Engineering will have an advance.

How big are these fields? I mean are there many jobs, or very few? (take a look at http://www.engineerjobs.com/ or similar websites and assess the quantity of jobs you're interested in compared to other fields)
what are the qualifications required to be eligible to those jobs?
Are the qualifications very strict? like in order to work @ Boeing, is it required to have a Msc in aeronautical engineering? or will a Msc in mechanical Engineering work too?

imo it's a matter of balance, you don't want to specialize too much because if you may not want to work in the same field your whole life, but at the same time some field require that.
 

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