Education advice - Counselling for Career-31

Q.
I have a diploma in instrumentation and control engineering (2008). I am a designer in a reputable engineering company. Now, I want to go in for a degree. Should I opt for a regular, part-time or a correspondence degree programme? — G Arora

A.
There are a number of opportunities for a candidate with a diploma in instrumentation engineering. With the increase in automation systems of all production lines today, instrumentation engineering is a good option. You can upgrade your skills to that of a graduate engineer even while working, by applying for a BE/BTech degree through the Associate Membership of the Institution of Engineers. For this, you are required to passing certain exams. The Institution of Engineers is a professional organisation that prepares diploma holders and working people for the Associate Membership Exam. The qualification awarded by the institution is considered to be at par with a BE/BTech. It is also recognised as an eligible qualification to write competitive examinations like the civil services, Indian Engineering Services, Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering, etc, and for placement in government, the public and private sectors. This will enable you to enhance your career prospects in your field. Check www.ieindia.org for more details.
Q.
I failed in my second-year BTech exam. I was not interested in BTech. However, I am going in for re-admission. Am I doing the right thing? — Amit Sharma

A.
I am sorry to hear that you have difficulty with your BTech course. You need to assess the reasons for faring so badly. Is it because you are unable to cope with the studies, or have there been other problems? It is possible that this is not the right course for you and you may be better off cutting your losses now. To find the most suitable course, you have to try and figure out what you are good at and interested in. If you are still interested in engineering, you may consider a three-year diploma in engineering, which is academically not as tough as the BTech. On the other hand, if you are good at maths and interested in information technology, you can take up a BSc in computers, or a computer course with any computer institute and build your skills in that field. There are many other technical diplomas in fields, such as printing and packaging, plastics, footwear technology, construction technology and so on. You may think about moving out of the science and maths stream and consider commerce, hospitality, travel, design, communications or any discipline you like and can do well in.
Q.
I am a chemical engineering student at one of the National Institutes of Technology. I got a job offer from IOCL during campus placements. Should I go abroad for an MS or MBA after my graduation or join the company? Can I take up higher studies afterwards? — Manish

A.
The choice between work experience and further studies depends on a number of factors, including your interest and inclination towards either of the two options. An MS or MTech degree would qualify you for higher positions, more responsibilities and a better salary in the field of engineering. If you enjoy working in an operational area and are good at technical creation, modification and development, then an MS is better. On the other hand, an MBA programme will enable you to move into the managerial area of planning, organisation and financial control and provide opportunities in practically every organisation. If you have good communication and inter-personal skills, a logical and analytical approach to problem solving, and sound business skills, then you can consider an MBA. However, as you are getting good campus placement, you can actually get the best of both. The job option would enable you to get hands-on understanding of the work scene, and a better handle on decision-making. Depending on your work experience, you can decide whether it is to be an MS/MTech or an MBA. Moreover, most MBA institutes prefer candidates with some work experience too, and a techno-management qualification is preferred in the global economy.

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