I'm currently in Manchester and looking to land a Junior Software Engineering or Web Development role. However, I have no formal academic qualifications or industry experience in IT or software. There's a lot of conflicting advice out there about whether a university degree is worth it compared to having a strong GitHub portfolio with projects. I've come across many discussions on this topic, but most seem outdated or are focused on the American job market, which changes rapidly. I've done some programming on my own and am working on my first project—a text-based RPG in Python—with a friend. I'm also going through The Odin Project, which I've found really helpful. I've applied for apprenticeships since I'd prefer that route, but if those don't work out, would pursuing a Master's degree improve my chances?
2 Answers
While I agree that a Master's can help, don't underestimate the power of building a solid portfolio! Employers are really looking for skills and projects that demonstrate your capabilities. Focus on creating several small but complete projects that showcase your skills, and connect with people in the industry. That's equally valuable as any degree.
I think a Master's could definitely help you! The key isn't just what you'll learn; it's that having the degree can open doors for applying to graduate roles. Right now, without formal qualifications, it's tough to be seen as employable since you've only created a text-based game and are just starting with The Odin Project. A Master's could give you that edge you need to get your foot in the door.
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