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Hello,
I have a Bachelors in liberal arts and would like to go back to school soon. Do you think it would be a better career move to get another Bachelors, this time in computer science (I'm considering Oregon State University's online computer science program) or to get a Masters in Management Information Systems locally?
It depends on what you want to do. If you want to work in computer science, then go for a computer science degree. If you want to work in MIS, go for the MIS degree. They are two very different programs. Have you considered a Ms in Comp Sci?
Oregon State University ranks really low in Comp Sci... so maybe you should look at other schools if you want to create the best opportunities for yourself. If you are in Oregon, and plan on staying there forever, then it might be a school that will help you out in a local job search.
Do not do another bachelor's degree. It is unnecessary and will take much longer than a M.S. I'd actually suggest looking for a M.S. in computer science, not a M.I.S. There are a lot of schools that will enroll students who lack a CS undergrad concentration. I recommend this because a M.I.S will severely limit your options in terms of future employability. You will not be viewed as an engineer, and as a result will not be qualified for any engineering positions.
Before taking on any additional debt, ask yourself WHY you are doing these things.
Is it because you think it will be easier to get a job? Is it because you would like to work in these fields?
Many folks these days are pushing themselves to do things they either aren't good at or they hate because they think it will be easier to get a job. A lot of them realized just because they had X degree didn't necessarily make them anymore employable as when they had Y degree since they were competing with more traditional graduates; they just had more debt in the end.
It doesn't mean dont do it, but to evaluate your reasons and your goals. Ensure you're doing it for the right reasons.
I thought I needed a second degree to get ahead and at multiple points in my career considered getting a second degree in software engineering despite having completed a dual degree in finance and economics. I ended up not to, because adding to the student loan debt I already had made me nervous. I'm really glad I didn't. I ended up learning to code and getting a job I love because of that without having to spend thousands.
The other thing is, I actually think I'd enjoy the course content of both programs. I wouldn't be taking out loans. I'd be paying as I go.
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