Is work experience important for an MS Engineering degree?

Some disciplines require work experience before applying for entrance to a masters programme. MBA hopefuls, for example, should have between three and five years of work under their belt before applying to schools.

And this is really important to note if you're thinking about moving up the management ranks - even in the engineering field. If you're interested in pursuing this option, you may want to hit the job market rather than jumping back into academia, even if most MS programmes aren’t as explicit regarding engineering work experience in their application directions.

Minimum work experience requirements for MS Engineering applications

Very few MS Engineering programmes specify a minimum of engineering work experience before application. You may find a few that suggest it, and only for specific degrees, but, it’s not the norm in the United States for MS Engineering. 

(Engineers wanting to pursue MBA degrees to progress in their field, however, will need to demonstrate work experience.)

But, that doesn’t mean these programmes don’t value candidates with work experience. 

Depending on the particular field of engineering, a move away from academia can prove useful before returning to the classroom. But, it’s usually a case of personal motivation and career goals.

As many American engineering schools have professors reviewing applications (rather than general admissions committees), work experience that leans towards research goals demonstrates a strong commitment to your field. 

However, the same group might lean towards candidates that will benefit their research community in the future rather than worrying about what’s brought to classroom discussions.

Typically, it boils down to the philosophies and aims of these specific universities.

Deciding between work experience or jumping into an MS Engineering degree

Whether you choose to get a job or head straight to grad school for MS Engineering is largely a personal decision. And, there are pros and cons to both paths.

There are some without a choice. They may have borrowed heavily to fund their bachelors degree and are unable to pay those loans without working. Others may experience difficulties finding a job that matches their interests and doesn’t require an MS Engineering degree.

What if you're keen on an MBA

For some recent engineering grads, the field isn't everything they expected it to be. Or, as is often the case, they're hoping to move up through the ranks within a highly technical company. If you fall into either category, an MBA degree might be a more attractive prospect than an MS engineering degree. 

And then you'll need to take work experience seriously - especially if an international degree appeals to you. Although you could always do an MS engineering degree and then find a job, you're keeping your prospects open by securing employment first. You might find that it's easier to decide when you've really tasted the work at hand. 

If you have options, your best bet is to reach out to alumni or professors from the programmes you would pursue. You could also consider chatting to professionals in the field who have a masters degree. The advice from either will be invaluable.

And, no matter when you plan to pursue your MS Engineering degree, it’s never too early to begin studying for the GRE.