<prompt> Human: Hi PF, Im looking for advice on the benefits of a masters degree within a technical field, weighed against the costs.Im a mechanical engineer at an Automotive OEM, and Ive been considering getting my masters. They offer tuition assistance for programs 6kyear, so doing a part time masters may be a bit more affordable Im not exactly certain on tuition costs as the programs Im considering vary quite a bit between Masters in Engineering, Masters in Product Development, or Masters in Big Data and AnalyticsAs for benefits, Im mainly looking for anecdotal evidence on whether a masters adds to your worth?Im 30 years old , I have 5 years experience, and my salary is 100k currently. With 35 years until retirement, and approx 4-5 years to complete a part time degree is it typical to see a financial benefit to justify the costs that will be associated with it?  <response>: Im an aerospace engineer with an MS and 15 years experience. With the little information I have about your situation, my gut tells me the financial considerations are probably pretty close either way, though an MS would be nice to have in a tiebreaker situation against another similar applicant to a new job if the economy tanks and you lose your current gig. My recommendation is to do what qualifies you for the type of work you want to do. Go for the degree if it opens the door for you to work in the specific field you have the most interest in. If youre already enjoying your work, then its probably not necessary, unless it gives you a feeling of accomplishment. The money will work out fine either way. 