I have a degree from Imperial college, is doing a masters at leeds business school a step down?

In other words is it worth just having a degree from a top university on its own or is there any additional benefit from a masters at a lower rate university. I would only be able to do it in Leeds.

I have a degree from Imperial college, is doing a masters at leeds business school a step down?
Good question (I'm not sure there are any bad questions!).


It depends on the relevance of the Masters to whatever job you apply for later. I suggest that, as well as asking here, you raise the question directly with potential employers - consider writing to a few and asking how they value Masters degrees and outline your specific situation.


If you haven't already, you could approach Imperial's careers advice service (see below).


It's not clear why a Masters is only an option at Leeds, if money is the issue do remember to watch out for busaries and charitable awards (you might even find something for IC students to take a masters abroad).


There are lots of options for Masters ... you could work for a while and then come back to the Masters or even do a masters in your own time.


I have been involved in recruitment for IT - a Masters was a good sign on a CV but the content of the Masters and the character of the candidate could swing a decision the other way after interview.


(FWIW I don't think it's snobbish to ask the question having graduated from IC (ranked 5 in the world) about the relative value of a second degree from Leeds (ranked 80), but the manner of your asking and the response it evoked should tell you something about how a little diplomatic language can improve the responses you get - you might like to consider that if you DO write to potential employers ... good luck!)
Reply:You are a stuck up twat.
Reply:A Masters is a Masters no matter where its obtained. A Masters is always "greater" than a batchelor's degree in terms of Qualifications.
Reply:University of Leeds is part of the Russel Group a group consisting of only 20 universities, thus is considered a top University for post graduate research. The group also consists of Imperial College London, Warwick, Cambridge and Oxford to name but a few.
Reply:I think it's (quite) a fair question! Perhaps phrasing Leeds as a lower rate university is a little unfair since all unis have strengths and weaknesses. But people should not be so offended. What is the point in insulting the asker?





I appreciate that there is a big difference with regards to standards between the two universities. However, it completely depends on the job you want to go into. Imperial has a top reputation amongst employers, so you may not need a masters for your desired job.


ranked by employment imperial is 2nd, leeds is 51st


see: http://extras.timesonline.co.uk/stug/uni...





But nevertheless, where ever you study, a masters will be higher than a batchelors,and will therefore be recognised by employers. And you have imperial college on your CV anyway.





It is not likely to be seen as a step down, rather a step up from batchelors to masters.
Reply:See LeaLea's answer and stop being such a damn snob.
Reply:I wouldnt be such a snob. It doesnt really matter WHERE you get your masters from.





If you stick with just the degree, someone with a masters is more than likely to get a job which you both apply for.