[Developer, Graduate School] 11. For Developers Considering Graduate School

There are developers who are considering graduate school for their career advancement or deeper learning. However, since it requires a significant financial investment and time commitment, it's crucial to clarify your goals before enrolling. I will share some insights based on my experience in a specialized graduate program to help you prepare.

Factors to Consider When Applying to Graduate School

• Specialized graduate programs typically have tuition fees ranging from 6.5 million to 7 million KRW per semester, and with 5 semesters, it's a decision that requires careful consideration. Given the high cost, you need to think about whether you can manage the expenses through loans or personal funds.
• Classes are usually held 2-3 times a week in the evenings (typically starting at 7 PM), which can be challenging to manage alongside a full-time job. It's essential to consider this aspect before applying. Many students choose a graduate program close to their workplace, or occasionally, some opt for programs with weekend classes.
• General graduate programs offer opportunities to immerse yourself in a lab environment and gain R&D experience through various research activities. However, specialized graduate programs often involve only coursework due to the need to balance work and studies, making them less research-oriented.
• Most individuals enrolling in specialized graduate programs aim to obtain a Master's degree or build a professional network (connections). Therefore, it's crucial to clearly define your objectives before applying.

Advantages of Specialized Graduate Programs
Master's Degree Acquisition

Unlike general graduate programs, you can obtain a Master's degree relatively easily while working. While a thesis is mandatory in general graduate programs, specialized programs often offer alternative options, such as additional coursework, allowing you to graduate without a thesis in many cases.

Networking

Many students who enroll in these programs are experienced professionals in their respective fields, and this can be beneficial for career transitions. In my experience, I've met executives from Naver, as well as experienced developers and planners from various services, gaining valuable insights and connections.

Disadvantages of Specialized Graduate Programs
High Tuition Fees
The tuition fees are typically around 6 million KRW, which is considered high compared to undergraduate studies. While the quality of education varies across programs, students usually take only 2-3 courses per semester, leading to a sense of higher cost per course. Considering 5 semesters, you need to calculate the total cost (tuition * 5) and assess whether you can manage it and what you can gain from this investment.

Thesis

Master's theses are generally around 50 pages long, and completing a thesis for graduation can be challenging. However, if you plan to transition into R&D roles or pursue a doctoral degree, a thesis is often required to showcase research achievements. If your primary goals are networking or obtaining a Master's degree, then completing a thesis might not be necessary.