Master of Arts in Social Sciences or Communications? (PhD, cost, school)

[Chanteuse d' Opéra]

I am interested in pursuing an MA in the Social Sciences (Sociology specifically) or Communications. I realize that both of these can be broad but I am leaning more toward an MA in Sociology. However, I'm wondering if this would even be worth it for the financial cost & job market. Can anyone enlighten me on the subject? My background is in Elementary Education & I'd like to work full-time while attending school part time. I'm in Texas & the universities I am looking at are in the Houston area.

[Chanteuse d' Opéra]

Anyone at all???

[itshim]

I guess the obvious question is...what do you want to do after you graduate?

[Chanteuse d' Opéra]

I am currently in Education as a schoolteacher, however I'd like to explore other career alternatives. I really enjoy Sociology/Social Work, but I don't want a PhD or anything like that. I do also like Higher Ed Student Affairs & Human Resources.

[mclarlm]

Aside from the intellectual benefits, think about what job you'd like to pursue and would an MA in Sociology get you there? If you'd like to get into social work, wouldn't a Masters in Social Work serve better than one in Sociology? I notice that the University of Houston offers both.

Many of my classmates went the MA Sociology route with the goal of placement into a PhD program. Seems more of an academic program to me.

[user_id]

umm....none of the above?

[MassVt]

I would see if you could gain comparable employment in these areas WITHOUT going through the time and expense of a graduate program.

I understand that in some cases the MA would enhance your resume, but it just might be an unnecessary financial burden, and without any real employable benefit.