Should I Pursue a Master's Degree or Teach Myself to Be a Software Engineer?

I've been self-taught and can do anything a senior full-stack developer can, yet I still get rejected often. Friends with CS master's degrees can secure jobs much easier, so keep that in mind. But if you're looking to learn independently, build a strong portfolio instead of just chasing after degrees.

Having a relevant degree definitely enhances your job prospects. Self-learning can be tough for many, and a structured environment like school helps keep you on track with clear goals. Quality and depth of learning can vary widely, so even if you choose self-study, make sure to deeply engage with the material.

From my experience, getting a master's degree is the way to go. I've self-studied a lot since 2019—completed CS50, went through MIT's undergrad curriculum online, and took the Odin Project—but I still feel like I'm overlooked because I lack a formal degree. If I could start fresh, I'd enroll in a master's program, like at Georgia Tech, and finish it in two years. A degree really helps in getting that first foot in the door, especially in a competitive job market. Sure, building projects is important, but having a degree from a good university makes a significant difference.

I’d say self-learning is a solid choice, especially considering the costs of college. With so many online resources available for free, you can learn effectively without putting yourself in debt. Start working on projects and showcase them on GitHub; real-world examples often speak louder to potential employers than a degree alone.

Honestly, given the current job market, neither option feels ideal. If it's a passion for you, then self-learning might be the way to go. If you want to increase your chances against hundreds of other applicants, then pursuing a degree might be a better strategy.

Why not consider a master's in something like mechatronics? It incorporates robotics programming, which is going to be in high demand soon. You could leverage your undergraduate experience and dive into an exciting field.