I have over four years experience in the field of chemistry (gas chromatography). I have used several different instruments and software packages. I suppose I am asking if the monetary expenditure, and time out of the field, is worth more than additional experience when considering career advancement opportunities.
Answers
Corey, I work in the pharmaceutical/hospital arena and we see a lot of folk come through for interviews. I offer two reasons to get your degree: 1) its extremely competitive and 2) expand your knowledge (don't close doors). We look for candidates that have proven themselves (by completing things like school, service, etc), have shown flexibility (able to go with the flow and still complete tasks), and can think (be able to make decisions that may affect the big picture). Sounds tough but if it was easy, everyone would be doing it, and its the best way to reach that satisfaction you desire if you are driven.
Yes, most definitely, but make sure you go to a "bricks and mortar" school There are too many scam on-line schools out there.
The lack of a degree will cap your upward mobility in the future. Take the time now to get the degree, try to get as much non-debt financial aid as possible, and keep your doors open in the future.
Cody, A degree is credentials that gives a prospective employer a better reason to consider you for a position that one from someone who does not have a degree. It also helps the HR person "sell' you to those are in the decision making if someone should be hired and to those you might be working with. A degree helps them overcome their three fears -- their lack of knowledge about you, the fear of your lack of knowledge of the field, the fear of their being critisized for considering you as an employee. Also, they will only take your applciation on if by doing so they will be a better person in their own or others eyes. Understand, no HR person will move your applciation foward if by doing so it will downgrade themself in others' eyes.
Alan
If you have aspirations to go beyond then the BS Degree would be important
Why limit yourself, for future assignments
In this very competitive enviroment the degree is important and in many cases gets you in the door..This allows you to leverage your experience
I didn't need a degree in my field but I got one anyway. I do feel that I benefitted from it personally. It was time and hard work. If you have started one you should earnestly look at completing it. I don't know that having one can hurt you whereas not having one could keep a door closed.
My experience in chromatography comes from civilian employment. I currently work in an environmental lab. Hence, the question. Would a BS in Chemistry do me any good? Would it help me to branch out any, or is my work experience enough? I do also have some GC-MS experience, though it is admittedly limited. I can progress in my current job, just not as quickly or as far as I would like.
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