Can an Individual Obtain Two Master's Degrees After a Single Bachelor's Degree?

In academic circles, it is not uncommon for individuals to pursue multiple master's degrees following a single bachelor's degree. This trend is particularly prevalent in fields such as chemistry, engineering, and afterwards seeking a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Alternatively, seeking a second master's degree might be necessary to transition into a new field. For instance, a former teacher who couldn't secure a job in her field might opt for an MBA to gain business training. Similarly, a person in a field where a master's degree is common but struggling with employment might pursue a new field with an additional master's degree.

Common Scenarios for Pursuing Multiple Master's Degrees

There are several reasons why an individual might choose to pursue two master's degrees after completing only one bachelor's degree. Some common scenarios include:

Transitioning from one field to another: A person who was a chemist might pursue a master's in business to make the transition into tech management. Acquiring additional skills for a career shift: A teacher who was laid off might seek an MBA for business skills to help secure new employment. Expanding academic expertise in a single field: An individual might pursue a master's in a sub-field to gain deeper knowledge and expertise.

Consequences of Listing Multiple Master's Degrees

When applying for jobs or advanced positions, the presence of multiple master's degrees could have varying impacts depending on the situation. For example, if a person holds a bachelor's degree in English and a master's in the same field, but then pursues an MBA, the additional degrees might be viewed negatively by some employers. This is because:

The person might be perceived as a "professional student" who lacks real-world experience. This could be particularly damaging in roles that require significant industry knowledge and practical experience. The MBA might not align with the candidate's intended career path. This could lead to suspicions that the individual is applying to a position without a long-term commitment. The multiple degrees might signal that the person is indecisive or lacks focus. This could be a concern in roles that require stability and dedication.

For instance, consider the following scenarios:

A candidate with a bachelor's degree in English and a master's in the same field, who later applies for a management position, might have the master's in English viewed as a hindrance. A candidate with a bachelor's in engineering and a master's in the same field, but then obtaining an MBA to enter tech management might be viewed positively, as the MBA could provide the necessary business acumen. A candidate with a bachelor's in education who later obtains an MBA and applies for a teaching position might face skepticism from potential employers.

Eligibility for Multiple Master's Degrees

It is possible for individuals to obtain multiple master's degrees after completing a single bachelor's degree, provided the eligibility criteria for the master's programs stipulate that a bachelor's degree in any field will suffice. For example, a master's in science or engineering (M.S./M.E./MTech) might be accessible to graduates with degrees in disciplines such as engineering (), while a master's in business administration (MBA) is generally open to graduates with any bachelor's degree.

However, it is important to note that certain fields, such as medicine, typically require a bachelor's degree in that specific field before pursuing an advanced degree like an M.D.

While it is feasible to pursue multiple master's degrees after a single bachelor's, the decision should be carefully considered based on the individual's professional goals and the expectations of potential employers.