I have applied to do the Master of Science in computer-based management information systems at the University of the West Indies.

However,, I am concerned that this particular field is not the best at this time due to the recession. Could you suggest a master’s programme that would help me to be more marketable? I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Administrative Management.

PURSUING graduate studies is a big step to take for anyone and there are important decisions that must be made – whether or not there is a recession.

Suggesting a programme that I think is marketable might not be in keeping with your interest, values and abilities. You may need to do some more investigation into the area for which you have applied. But there are some factors to keep in mind when you are about to pursue graduate studies.

First, you must be sure that you are ready to enter into a programme of study at this time. Are you physically ready? Have you just completed a bachelor’s degree and are feeling that you need to take a break from being a student?

Second, are you financially ready? You should ensure that you have identified the financial resources for tuition, books and other maintenance costs. You do not want to begin a programme of study and then become frustrated during the process because you are unable to meet your obligations.

Third, if you are employed, how will this programme of study fit into your work schedule? Do you have to seek the support of your employers so that the required time off will be obtained?

Fourth, will the area of study selected meet your career needs? Is it in keeping with your career objective? And is it a good fit with your interest, abilities and values? Will you be marketable when you complete the programme?

Your decision to pursue a master’s in computer-based management information systems should therefore be based on these factors and not only on the basis of marketability. In order to find out about the relevance or importance of this area of study during this recession, you will need to do some research. For starters,

. find out from the Manpower Planning Division of the Planning Institute of Jamaica what statistics they have on employment trends in this area over the last five years and if there are projections for the coming five years; and

. check with the Ministry of Labour to find out if the job placement section, which has a labour market information system, has kept a record of the high-demand areas for placement and if so, what is the demand for the computer-based management information systems graduate. Additionally, the placement unit of tertiary institutions will also be able to inform you of the current trends in employment for this area of study. Importantly, remember that the global recession is not a life-long phenomenon; it may be over before you complete your studies.

Meanwhile, it is my view that a master’s programme in computer-based management information systems should be a demand area, even in a global recession. The skills and competencies obtained from pursuing this programme of study are broad-based. At the same time, as organisations become more advanced in their management systems, there is the need for people trained in this area. You must be reminded, however, that in a recession and the age of globalisation, your job search must be focused not only locally but also regionally and internationally. You must also be aware that organisations are not only looking for people with a specific degree but for people who have a variety of skill sets and who are able to offer their services, if so desired, in more than one area of specialisation. Employees must therefore be flexible. Other skills and competencies required could be obtained through the affective learning process and include excellent communication, interpersonal and social skills, the ability to work as part of a team, and creativity. People should also have a strong commitment to helping the organisation to meet its goals.

Also of value is the ability to plan and organise your own job search. The fact that you have completed a master’s degree will not mean that you will immediately find a job. And to find a job, you must be prepared. To do so,

. ensure that you utilise the services of your career centre;

. find out what seminars are held on world of work issues and participate; participation will help you to circulate your résumé and organise interviews; and

. be competent in writing good résumés that reflect your level of academic achievement.

You should not forget that more and more people are looking at creating their own employment, and the area of computer-based management information systems is one in which people can easily create their own employment.

Merrit Henry is the student services and development manager at the University of the West Indies, Mona. She may be contacted at merrit.henry@uwimona.edu.jm