How to find the right master's programme

A bachelor's degree will take you far, but sometimes it's not enough. You want to delve deeper, set a new course, perhaps specialise or simply gain time to position yourself better.

A master's programme can be many things: a way to deepen your knowledge, a turning point or a springboard. But to make sure it's right for you, you first need to know who you are and where you want to go.

Here are some thoughts to help you find your way. No pressure. No perfection. Just clarity.

Find out what you want, not what you should do

Forget about what ‘goes down well’ or ‘sounds useful’ for now. Ask yourself: What really interests you? What do you want to understand more deeply? It's not about choosing something that's ‘safe.’ It's about developing yourself further. Only if the subject moves you will you stick with it – through exams, assignments and doubts.

The master's degree does not necessarily have to match the bachelor's degree exactly.

You can think outside the box. Many programmes can be combined. Perhaps you want to work in an interdisciplinary field. Or change your perspective. If you can justify why you are taking this step, almost anything is possible. And often even encouraged.

Find out all the details

The website looks good. The title sounds impressive. But what does it actually offer? Take a look at the curriculum. What modules are there? Which subjects are compulsory? How much practical work is involved, and how much theory? Are there any options to choose from? Can you study abroad?

A big name won't do you any good if you realise after two months that it's not right for you.

Think about your life, not just your studies.

A master's degree often takes two years – sometimes more. Think about it: Do you want to study full-time? Work part-time? Move? Go abroad? The master's degree has to fit into your life, not just your CV. And it's perfectly okay to consider this when making your choice.

Get information, but not too many opinions.

Talk to people who have already completed a master's degree. Take advantage of the advisory services offered by your university. Find out more on platforms such as talendo.ch, where you can find lots of master's programmes at a glance.

And if you want information directly on site, then make a note of 30 October: On this day, the Master-Messe will take place in Zurich – an ideal opportunity to talk to study programme coordinators in person, compare programmes and ask questions. Everything in one place. No long searches.

But don't let yourself be persuaded. And don't compare too much. At some point, it's no longer about facts, but about your gut feeling, and that's what counts!