Free MSIT

Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Free MSIT

Do you already have programming experience? If so, then the Harvard option might help you get your foot in the door at some consulting gigs or full time employment, if you leave your current position. If you just want to add skills, then perhaps the Aspen option is a good one. However, the DETC status is not going to add any punch to your resume. My main point is that the best choice seemed to be influenced by cost, which didn't seem to be the primary criterion for the best decision. I know that University of Hawaii has a complete MSCS option that can be matriculated online and is reasonably priced. Still, there are other DL options, too.

Best wishes,

Dave

 

Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Free MSIT

I have 7 years of programming, mostly web applications, including Java, C#, and several scripting languages. I have been involved at the architect level recently, doing database design and multi-tiered web apps (model-view-controller type methodology/design, design patterns, etc.).

I have to concentrate on a goal though, to advance my cause. I don't need a master's degree for my current work; I'm concerned about hedging my future, and the Harvard IT degree would help.

But my other goal, that of building knowledge of computer engineering, is not so much career related as it is driven by my own curiousity and frustrated inventor side.

So I'm waffling now, between going whole hog and taking a few steps back to gather a good base of engineering knowledge, or simply using the education opportunity as a career bullet.

IT Master's --> career, so must be a good name school

computer engineering --> personal, so must offer greatest learning opportunity

I have a feeling that though these two goals SHOULD converge, the practical reality is that they do not. THe MSIT/MSCS would be largely repetitive but I could use the opportunity to learn some new things.

I'm not saying computer engineering with a smattering of computer science courses wouldn't help my career....just saying that there is a more direct, *shorter* route by going the MSIT/MSCS route.

I'm on the fence, still.

I have to decide within a week or I'm delaying my education by at least another semester.

I suppose I could just spend the next two to three years getting the MSCS or MSIT, and deal with my personal goals later.

I don't know why, but somewhere in my gut I'm sensing a turn in the tide for computer system development such that there will be more opportunities for those who have a heavier AI/computer engineering background. I've been wrong before, though.

I think that's why the decision is perplexing for me.

Any other time I would just pick a route and go with it, no pain. But if I miss the boat, I could end up with a Master's degree in the stuff that is all being offshored....and no one will be hiring a has-been web developer.

Bottom line: I have no rational reason, but I believe a computer engineering DETC degree alongside my RA BA will get me a foot in the door at a decent master's level program that has a heavier artificial intelligence/robotics concentration.

 

add one more sentence to that last post:

I could start that education about 3 years sooner by starting on the DETC engineering schooling now, vs. going the MSIT route and then applying to engineering schools after the MSIT.

 

How about MBA with IT specialization?

Or MPM - IT project management?