Como escolher um bom mestrado

How to choose a good master's degree

Knowing how to choose a good master's degree may not be so simple for those who, during their undergraduate studies, did not think about pursuing an academic career.

Well, that’s not a problem. There are several tips that can help you, if you’re in doubt, decide which master’s degree is best for you.

First, you need to know what you want: are you looking for a public exam? Do you want to qualify in your field? Do you want to change careers?

Furthermore, are you interested in and able to do your master's degree abroad? Are you available to attend classes in person?

Then, it is important to understand the types of postgraduate courses offered, which master's degree models are best for you and what the course actually offers.

Let's take a look at the types of master's degrees offered and which one is best for you?

Understanding Masters Degrees

Let's first understand who a postgraduate degree in Brazil is for and the types available. That way, you can find out which one is best for you!

You must have a college degree to start a master's degree. They generally last two years and you must conduct research during the course. In addition, master's degree holders can teach in higher education.

The following information and guidelines are from the Ministry of Education (MEC).

Broad sense

Lato sensu postgraduate courses include specializations and MBA (Master Business Administration) courses.

They have a minimum workload of 360 hours and, at the end of the postgraduate course, the student will receive a certificate and not a diploma. Candidates must have completed higher education.

The literal translation, from Latin, means “in a broad sense”, and indicates that the course is more comprehensive, broader, with a less specific field of study.

In general, they last less time and are more dedicated to meeting immediate needs in the job market, preparing professionals.

Stricto sensu

Stricto sensu postgraduate courses are those that refer to master's and doctorate degrees and candidates must also have completed undergraduate courses.

In this case, at the end of the postgraduate course the student will obtain a diploma.

In contrast to Lato sensu, it means “in the strict sense”, which is the type of postgraduate course that lasts longer and is dedicated more to research and in-depth analysis of a specific object of study, linking more to the academic activity of knowledge production.

Academic Master's Degree

Most of them are offered in person and the objective is to prepare people for the development of research, but also authorizes the professional to carry out teaching and other functions within the chosen area.

Professional Master's Degree

In general, professional master's degrees are offered in more flexible formats and the research to be developed focuses on solving problems in the job market in the area. Graduates also have the possibility of working as teachers.

How to choose?

But how do you choose effectively? Knowing the information above, you should pay attention to some important points before choosing:

  • Do you want to practice teaching?
  • Is the focus on qualifying for the job market?
  • Do you want to study abroad? Does the course offer the possibility of an exchange program?
  • Will your routine allow for the study and class model?
  • Does the institution offer a line of research compatible with your project?

Ask these questions to the institution and the master's degree coordinator to help you make your decision!

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