Thinking about switching careers? You’re not alone. Today’s professionals are redefining success, based on greater growth, flexibility, and personal fulfillment. Discover how leveraging a master’s degree can open new doors and help you confidently navigate your next career chapter.
While working in one job for most of your life was once the norm, the career of the modern-day professional looks different. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Baby Boomer (1957-1964) generation in the United States held an average of 12.9 jobs from ages 18 to 58. However, “job-hopping” is becoming increasingly common, especially among younger generations. According to Money Digest, Gen Zers are predicted to work 18 jobs across six careers during their lives. Sound familiar? Luckily, leveraging a master’s degree for a career change can make all the difference.
Overall, younger generations are more likely to engage in career exploration rather than climbing a traditional corporate ladder. Flexible lifestyles, remote work, freelance work, and side gigs are all changing the nature of work.
It comes as no surprise that many workers in today’s economy are actively making career transitions. This can include switching roles, industries, or geographies. Or all three, also known as a “triple-jump”.
More specifically, many are leveraging a master’s degree to switch careers. So, how can you use a master’s degree for a career change? This article will explain what you need to know.
Before diving into the ‘what’, let’s briefly explore the ‘why’. Why make a career change? In today’s world, workers are increasingly looking for jobs that align with their goals. For many, greater flexibility and autonomy, increased pay, diversity and inclusivity, work-life balance, and growth opportunities are key priorities.
In fact, 2025 was the year of the “Great Career Shift”. According to CVWizard, in 2025, 66% of Gen Z and 65% of Millennials have considered making a career switch. The top reasons include better salary, job security, career growth, and better work environment.
But are the risks of a career change worth it? Despite the obvious risks, the benefits of a career shift can include greater job satisfaction and personal fulfillment, increased salary, new challenges and project opportunities, an expanded professional network, as well as better mental health. Switching to a career path that suits your passions, long-term goals, finances, and lifestyle can work wonders when it comes to your overall life and job satisfaction. These benefits are definitely worth considering when thinking about whether or not to take the leap.
If you’re thinking about making a change, trust that it happens more often than you’d think. And don’t underestimate the power of leveraging a master’s degree for your career change.
Before pursuing a master’s degree for a career change, it’s essential to consider what a master’s degree would mean for you and how to use it to make a career pivot.
Generally, there are two ways you could go about choosing a master’s degree to facilitate your career change:
In both cases, look for programs that offer hands-on projects with companies or internships as part of the curriculum. If you are looking to switch to a new industry in which you don’t yet have work experience, having a company project or internship under your belt can help you get your foot in the door.
Moreover, look for programs with strong industry partnerships and an engaged alumni network. Both of these factors can make a big difference in accelerating your career. University industry partners often come to campus to network or give presentations, offering real-world insights into the field you are looking to enter. Alumni connections can become mentors, offering valuable career advice. Alums can also help you make introductions at organizations you are interested in that they may already be working at.
Expanding your network will come in handy whether you are looking to advance in your current field or switch sectors.
One of the most considerable reservations about changing careers is whether you’ll be able to land a job in your newly desired field or role. The job market is constantly changing and it can feel daunting. However, don’t forget that you’re never starting from scratch. Your previous work experience is valuable and many skills are often transferable.
Additionally, it is worth noting that you don’t need to fit into a strict mold to excel at a new job. Candidates who are motivated, up to date on industry trends, and eager to help can be great new additions to their teams. Transferrable soft skills such as communication, leadership, and teamwork are directly applicable in a variety of roles and industries. Many companies and organizations are looking for exactly these skills.
When planning a career shift, be realistic. A career shift rarely happens overnight. It is important to:
A well-suited master’s degree can give you an extra edge to help you stand out among other applicants.
The world of work is changing, and so are you. Gone are the days of linear careers and lifelong jobs. Today’s professionals are rewriting the rules, embracing flexibility, and chasing personal fulfillment over familiarity. There is no single “right” path. Ultimately, choose the path that best aligns with your goals, lifestyle, and personal purpose.
Furthermore, pursuing a master’s degree could be the key to unlocking your next career opportunity. A master’s degree can offer you new skills and knowledge in your desired field or help you level up in your current field.
Use the time during your master’s program to bridge your past work experience with your future potential. Your next career chapter it’s waiting to be written.
Learn more about what kind of jobs you can pursue with a master’s on our Careers page.
