I am a GS-13 for a DOD Agency. My boss suggested I get a masters to separate myself when I start looking at GS-14 opportunities. I have a bachelor in computer science. I am considering either a general IT masters like MIS (just to check off the box) or a targeted masters with in demand skills that I can also use to potentially teach like cybersecurity or Data Science with an emphasis in AI. Just looking on recommendations on how to proceed.

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Outside of specialized fields, in general a masters won't make you stand out amongst other applicants for fed jobs.

As a longtime former fed 2210 HM at several agencies, education was only ever something we looked at when it was a screen-out (e.g. the applicant qualified based on education vs experience). Beyond that, experience reigned supreme.

While my experience is, of course, anecdotal, I'd pass on getting a master's unless you want one for personal reasons.

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I agree with all of this.

Also, I wouldn't really expect to find many teaching roles for people with only a Master's in Data Science or Cyber Security. There are (unfortunately) diploma mills pumping out PhDs in those fields. The credential will not stand out there.

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If your goal is to stay working in the government, a master degree will do you little. That being said, if the Air Force is willing to pay for it, 100% I say go do it.

Now that being said, I would highly recommend any training on cyber. That is the way of the future. Having training specialized in cyber will 100% set you apart.

I’ve seen many in the govt get into MS in Systems Engineering programs.

Get an MBA. gs-14 to 15 or up to SES are upper management positions. A master gives you 10points in the application I believe. Gs14 or 15 non supervisory are rare. Most of the roles at that level you will need experience in management and budgeting

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