Name: Tara McNally
Current job and employer: Cabinet Office, Government Economic Service
Degrees: Economics BSc, University of Bath, 2004
Economics MSc, University of Bath, 2007
What was the most important transition when going from undergraduate to postgraduate?
The short adjustment period - only had one year that contributed to final mark - this was not built on from a number of years. This wasn't as bad for me as I went back to the same university - I can imagine there is a lot to learn in a very short space in time for people starting at new Universities.
Considering the cost of postgraduate study, do you feel it was a suitable investment in your future?
I didn't have any grants etc. and think that it hasn't made a difference getting the job that I currently do. Many government departments will sponsor Masters courses so there is also a benefit in going straight into a graduate program if you can't afford to fund yourself.
You start on a higher wage if you have a Masters - after some calculating it works out about the same whether you do the Masters before joining Government or if you get sponsorship from your department. You are tied to your department for (on average) two years if they sponsor you.
Where I think the biggest effect of having a Masters will be is in applying for promotion. You need to display postgraduate (PG) knowledge of economics - and the easiest way to do this is by having the MSc. If you have to join a waiting list to go on the Masters you could be held back from getting a promotion sooner.
What part do you feel your postgraduate degree had in securing your current job?
I didn't need the PG study to get this job, however, I think it will influence progression as mentioned above. I use a lot of regression analysis in my job.
What advice would you give to students who are considering postgraduate study?
I think now is a good time to consider PG study and P.G.C.E. courses as competition for jobs is going to be very high - graduates will be competing against other recent graduates who have also got a few years of work experience to offer.
Now more than ever it is important to have more than just a good degree - doing PG study will deepen knowledge of their subject and also open more networking opportunities for future employment.