Ask HN: Is an MS in Computer Science Worth Pursuing?

Re:Ask HN: Is an MS in Computer Science Worth Pursuing? by ThrowawayR2 on Sunday September 01, 2019 @09:40PM (#20856170)

Your question is the equivalent of "Is purchasing a hammer something worth pursuing?" The knowledge conferred by a degree is a tool, nothing more.

So, the question is: what do you plan to do with your MS? Do you want to apply to jobs that require specialized CS knowledge? Are you doing it for your own personal satisfaction? Are you hoping that having a MS will make you generally more attractive on the job market? Only you know the answer to that.

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Re:Ask HN: Is an MS in Computer Science Worth Pursuing? by atsushin on Sunday September 01, 2019 @10:07PM (#20856278)

I feel like my motivation to go to grad. school is driven by a desire to solidify my CS knowledge as well as a desire to look more competitive given the area that I live in / am most close to (NYC). I'd like to apply for more specialized posititons too.

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Re:Ask HN: Is an MS in Computer Science Worth Pursuing? by buffaloo on Sunday September 01, 2019 @10:13PM (#20856300)

To solidify your knowledge, read. A lot.

To look more competitive, do something worthwhile with what you know.

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Re:Ask HN: Is an MS in Computer Science Worth Pursuing? by adonnjohn on Sunday September 01, 2019 @10:13PM (#20856301)

It's probably worth it in your case, but you'll need to be very careful about planning how it directly gives you an increase in return on investment. College is ridiculously expensive in America nowadays, and I would be very hesitant to go back if I wasn't certain it would lead to a drastic increase in income.

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Re:Ask HN: Is an MS in Computer Science Worth Pursuing? by probinso on Monday September 02, 2019 @10:10PM (#20863182)

Do not pursue a general computer science graduate degree. Be specific, be intentional.

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