Quote:
Originally Posted by something
Thanks for the post! Some awesome information in there.
While law school is an option, I never wanted to be a lawyer. I still don't want to be. I just know that it wouldn't be a good fit for myself.
I did, however, want to pursue a legal career. I had it in my mind a bit more than a year ago that I wanted to go to the UK and do my LLM in public international law. I had most things worked out, but then I decided not to rush into it and take some time off since I did not feel absolutely sure I wanted to do the program. At 20,000 dollars of tuition for one year plus living expenses, I could not afford to be unsure about the program. To keep things short - I am all but convinced I no longer want to pursue an education in that field.
My undergraduate was a BA in Law and Society/Economics. You mentioned in your post that I ought to pursue a masters degree in a relevant academic field to be able to pursue my desired career. I want to get into "environmental protection". I guess the most obvious career in this regard would be to become a park ranger. Unfortunately, my degree has nothing to do with this. I can't even apply to any master program that will allow me to diverge from my current career path to achieve this.
It was brought to my attention that I could do an LLM Environmental Law. This isn't necessarily desirable either... And would require 20,000 in tuition also.
So, that's why I want to change my degree entirely. On the bright side, I can transfer up to 60 credits (or two full-time years) over to UBC or UVic. I could reasonably achieve the new degree in 2 years.
It does feel wasteful, but as a friend told me: at least I know what I want to do now.
|
I definitely wasn't recommending you become a lawyer. Noone should do that unless they're sure about it.
If you can't get into the Master's Program you want and can get your new Bachelor's in 2 years or less, that's more of an upgrading type of situation. In which case, not a bad way to go. I would still take a look around for Masters programs that you do qualify for. Could save you two years of schooling.
And yes the $20k might seem like a lot, but not if it gets you a much better job. Plus you have to factor in the extra cost of 2 years of school, the cost of supporting yourself in undergrad, and the foregone income of 2 years of extra school with the undergrad route. If you're planning on doing a Master's after anyways, it might just be better to jump straight into a more expensive program.
I find it a bit odd that Master's programs in Environmental Protection don't consider a law related undergrad as acceptable. Are you missing the necessary science credits? If so, I'd speak to the admission people at your desired Master's program. Maybe you won't need a new degree, perhaps taking 5-10 courses in environmental science would be good enough. Master's programs are pretty subjective for their admission requirements usually. There should be at least one reputable school willing to give you a look with your current credentials.
Edit: Did a little digging. Is the program you are looking into a MSc and you have a BA, but need a BSc to apply? Is this the issue.