Masters or not?
 

Just a shot in the dark regarding continuing education for myself. Currently a regional FO (upgrade next 1-1.5 years) with a Bachelors in Aeronautical Science.
Ive realized I have a pretty good side interest in human psychology (human factors in particular) and have been playing with the idea of possibly pursuing a masters in that direction. Obviously with the current economical situation this is going to be delayed but in the even things settle down I would like to have my mind made up.
I understand it’s a bunch of extra work and would require some additional financial sacrifices but in terms of self fulfillment + increasing resume for potential future employment opportunities it is certainly tempting.
Is a masters worth it in the long run or would another circumstance after becoming a captain be better for my future? (Union position, company fatigue team, etc.) Thanks in advance, any feedback is greatly appreciated!

I got mine just to add another check box


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A master's will check another box and enhance your score.

I'd say that relevant aviation experience is more important than a master's degree. Don't delay upgrade, LCA, other instructor, etc for a master's.

As far as union jobs, yeah that's good stuff and will come out at the interview but I'm not sure there's always a box to check, and that's what gets you the interview in the first place. The masters always checks a box.

Plus if you ever need a new career, you'll generally get paid more for having a masters and it usually doesn't matter what the major was.

All depends on why you want it. Are you getting it just to better your resume? What, exactly, do you want to the masters for? Can you pay for it as you go? Loans?

Thanks for the replies. I would be interested in the masters not just to check a box but also as self interest/backup. It would most likely be done in a few years as I’d save up some money, and then chip away at it slowly (might take more than 2 years to finish but I don’t think there’s a rush).
I guess the best option would be to focus on career advancement first and wait on the school for a little
it at least.

the big box checkers are

Check Airman
Safety Officer
Bachelors
Masters
Turbine PIC
Leadership/Management roles

Since that’s your interest anyway if you happen to work for an ALPA carrier there are ALPA aviation related courses and committees having to do with psychology including peer support, safety, HIMS, and other areas. It can be a two-fer ....



https://www.alpa.org/news-and-events/meetings-training

That’s awesome, thanks for the list and thank you for the link, I’ll definitely check that out!

In my experience a lot comes down to personal motivation, rather than the belief that any piece of paper will throw open doors automatically. If you truly enjoy psychology and willing to grind up from the bottom if need be, then yes, get the masters. But if you’re looking for an easy backstop, then maybe not.

Purdue or ERAU
 

Hi everybody, first time posting here. I was curious to see if anyone has any experience with Purdue or ERAU's online aviation related Masters Degree programs. I have looked into each program and I think I would be happy with either one, but I wanted to see if anyone out there can provide feedback on their academic experience and/or the usefulness of the degree in the industry.

I have done my homework on whether a masters degree is worth it or not, and where it should fall within your career progression priorities. I am looking to fly for the airlines once hiring picks up again, and I will be building hours until that happens. Thank you in advance for any feedback, and I hope that everyone is staying safe out there.