postgrad for tech people
is a postgrad worth it? I asked myself the same thing. here is what I learned from my own experience, covering lato and stricto sensu programs, the advantages of each, and what I would do differently if I were starting today.
lato vs stricto sensu
Section titled “lato vs stricto sensu”lato sensu means “in a broad sense” and covers specialization programs aimed at the job market. it is the path of MBAs and classic specializations.
stricto sensu means “in a strict sense” and covers master’s and doctorate programs aimed at academic research. on average, 2 years for a master’s and 4 for a doctorate.
there are professional and academic master’s programs, and the difference is significant. the first emphasizes studies and techniques for high-level professional qualification, while the second is aimed at academic research.
students in a master’s can continue to a doctorate when the goal is teaching or research.
and yes, someone with an MBA can also do a doctorate.
which one makes more sense for tech people?
Section titled “which one makes more sense for tech people?”it depends.
if the goal is to go deep on a specific subject, stricto sensu is the better option. you can pick a master’s or doctorate focused on your area. that opens doors both in academia and in advanced research roles in the private sector.
if the goal is to become competitive in the market fast, lato sensu makes more sense. a good MBA or specialization gives you practical baggage, networking, and a credential the market recognizes, without locking yourself into a university for years.
the central question is not “which is better?” but “which is better for you, right now?”
how do you get into a postgrad?
Section titled “how do you get into a postgrad?”
relatively easy, but it depends on the program:
- having already graduated
- holding a degree recognized by MEC, Brazil’s education ministry
getting into lato sensu is simpler. usually you fill out a form, pay the application fee, and send the required documents.
finishing the course with good results, however, is 90% on you.
how do you get into a master’s or doctorate?
Section titled “how do you get into a master’s or doctorate?”the process is more complex. it usually involves:
- submitting a research project
- going through a selection call
meaning you need a clear idea of what you want to research, which can be a challenge when you are starting out.
things I would do differently if I were starting today
Section titled “things I would do differently if I were starting today”find an area of interest
Section titled “find an area of interest”this is the most elementary step. without an area of interest, it is hard to get involved in a research project or even to pick a program.
look for a school with a program in my area of interest
Section titled “look for a school with a program in my area of interest”it is not all about the institution’s name. the most important thing is finding a program with researchers you could work with. that can mean commuting, maybe moving cities, or adapting to public transport.
reach out to professors
Section titled “reach out to professors”after finding a program that interested me, I would reach out to professors to understand what they research, the program’s research lines, and whether they are taking new students.
the first contact would be by email, introducing myself and showing interest in the master’s program. if the professor replies, great. if not, don’t panic. not every professor has time to answer emails from potential students.
conclusion
Section titled “conclusion”stricto sensu for going deep. lato sensu for standing out fast. the choice depends on where you are and where you want to go.
getting into a postgrad is relatively easy, but finishing with good results depends on your commitment.