Design Degree
vs. Work Experience
Welcome to the fifth edition of Digital Design Compass: Weekly Newsletter! In this edition, we delve into the timeless debate of degree vs. work experience in design careers.
Arjun Phlox
Karthi Subbaraman
Should you pursue a two-year master's degree in design?
That's one of the most frequently asked career-related questions. So grab a matcha and let's dive into the answer!
Highlights from the video
Design Degree as Entry Ticket: A design degree serves as an entry ticket for interviews, demonstrating your commitment and investment in the field, but it's not the sole determining factor in getting hired.
Problem-Solving Skills Over Degree: The ability to creatively solve problems and understand the problem space is more important than having a design degree. Self-taught designers can excel in these areas without formal education.
Value of Peer Group and Network: Attending a prestigious design school provides a better peer group, network, and professors, which can significantly enhance your learning experience and career prospects.
Financial Considerations: Pursuing a master's degree can be costly, with potential debt accumulation, so it's crucial to weigh the financial implications against the potential benefits.
Experience Over Education: If you already have a strong portfolio and relevant experience, a design degree might not be necessary. Employers value practical skills and experience more than formal education.
Ask a Question
Have a question in mind? Don't miss out on unlocking the insights you may have not had. Ask away and you may help better the journey of fellow Designers as well.
