Hi,

I'm currently working as a Training Manager, but what I'd really like to do is get into designing eLearning. I am looking into online programs, specifically through Walden and Capella. Capella has a MS in Instructional Design for Online Learning that seems most promising right now. Getting my Masters has been a personal goal for me, so that is part of my motivation. However, career-wise, is it a smart move? Is a MS going to help me advance my career, or could I do just as well with the various certificate programs available, such as those offered by ASTD? I would really appreciate any thoughts or advice from those of you already successful in the field.

Thank you!
Rachel

Rachel:

If getting your masters degree is a personal goal, then it does not matter if it will help your career or not--you are going to undertake the masters because it is a goal.

If you are looking for career input, knowing what your long term goals are would be worth sharing to give a more complete picture of who you are and where you want to go.

Now, my personal opinion is that those of us in professional training need to reflect that in the era of life-long-learning. We need practice that which is espouse--that we are willing to continue our education.

Looking at this another way... A masters degree goes far beyond a bachelors degree in a specific area of knowledge. The masters should get you to master, not just learn, the core knowledge of the field being studied.

So Rachel, what do you want to be when you grow up? From where you are now, which path looks to be the most promising one to follow? Answers these questions and you will know what needs to be done.

As for the certification, for some they are worth the investment as it gives credibility to their resume. For others, reputation and portfolio are sufficient.