How hard would it be for me to attain a master's degree?

Question

Currently, I am at a time in my life where I am considering my options for post secondary education. I vehemently believe that I am university bound and plan on pursuing a master's degree. I plan to do my undergraduate with honours in English Literature and French Studies, as I am Canadian. The two extra years that comprise the standard for the a masters would probably be comprised of studies concentrated mainly in English Lit with French courses as well here and there. I have already selected a university that I favour attending since it is very focused on Bilingualism.

To provide you all with some background, I am a very high achieving student, having reached honour status for 2 years straight so far of my highschool career. I aspire to be a teacher but recognize it is a very competitive field which is why I am considering an advanced degree. As well, I have a desire to one day reside in the United States which is why I will be at an advantage with such a high level of education.

From what my research has shown me up to this point, a main concern for students wishing to follow this journey to attain a master's degree, is the overall cost. I have a part time job at the moment and put away more than half of my weekly salary into savings.

In conclusion, I am cognizant of the fact that I will be required to write a thesis paper of up to 100 pages. This is not much of a concern for me as I am in the middle of penning a novel and am already 178 pages into writing it.

If there is anyone out there that is in possession of a master's degree I would love to hear some of your struggles, achievements, words of advice and cautionary tales. Thank you in advance!

Answer 1

In my experience, if you really want a master's degree, then you'll get one. I have a MS in Taxation, so it's different than yours, but my best advice is to stay focused on your goals and don't compromise if you're given the opportunity to do so.



Just be aware that there's a few years ahead of you before you can be a masters student, be sure that you focus on the undergrad degree first. Also, if you can afford it, don't leave college to join the working force and expect school to be easy when you return. Many of my friends have done this and struggle with the extra burdens that you carry with you when you get older.



You seem intelligent and focused, so I'm sure you'll do just great.



Good luck!

Answer 2

there is a lot of reading and some group work. Some Grad schools have TA positions that pay you a little and then you don't owe any for your classes. Not all programs have this set up. Most do have some kind of fee reduction in form of scholarships or teaching assistant (TA). You can also get money for publishing.

Answer 3

I'm hoping to get my Ph.D. but I have a while to go. It takes four years for your bachelor's and then another 2-3 for your master's. :)