Master's degree in food and agro-processing - Is it marketable?

Glenford Smith, Career Writer

QUESTION: I am currently contemplating advancing my studies. I am, however, undecided on what course of study would be most suitable in this current job market. I have been looking at the MSc degree in Food and Agro Processing Technology currently offered at UWI, Mona. What advice can you offer as it relates to that course and or others that would be marketable. I hold a BSc in Nutrition and Dietetics.

—Kavin

CAREERS: Advancing your studies is a good idea. Bear in mind though, that a MSc degree isn't a ticket into a guaranteed well-paying job, or any job at all. There are many Masters degree graduates who have tried their best and haven't landed a job.

Also, avoid the mistake of judging the course suitability only on the basis of 'the current job market.' No matter what course of study you decide on, you'll find it challenging and highly competitive.

Of all the factors determining whether you eventually find a job, and excel in it, the state of the job market is among the least important, relatively speaking. That's because the market is external to you; it's out of your control.

Furthermore, your graduate competitors will operate within the same job market. Some will make it; others will struggle. That's evidence that career success isn't just about the job market; it's about what the individual does and how he or she does it.

Far more important than the job market, is doing what you are talented for and passionate about, and developing a winning character. You're more likely to excel when you love what you do, become excellent at it and practice resilience, decisiveness, determination, discipline, proactiveness, adaptability and intelligence. Also, learn the art of winning other people's support and cooperation.

Also crucial to understand, is that marketing yourself effectively is far more important than your academic degree.

Two decades ago, as I struggled to land a job, I got a shocking wake-up call when I read, the following in Dr Henley Morgan's book, The Jamaican Job Seeker's Guide: "The value of academic achievement cannot be disputed but effective job seeking strategies are based on the premise that the most qualified applicant is not always the one selected to fill a job opening. The determining factor is often how successful one is in gaining an audience with the employer and one's success in using this opportunity to convince the employer of one's potential worth to the organisation".

That's true today, as it was then.

The MSc Food and Agro-Processing degree programme that you're considering runs for 16 months part-time or 28 months full-time, and costs US$15,000 as tuition.

Your Bsc degree meets the matriculation requirements; however, applications have closed for the upcoming school year.

Relative to its potential, Jamaica's food and agro-processing sector is woefully underdeveloped, according to the experts. That means there is great scope for inputs from qualified, visionary and innovative young graduates in the field.

In addition to export manufacturers like GraceKenndy Limited, West Best Foods, Lasco and Jamaica Producers Group, there are many other avenues for establishing yourself in this growing sector. I wish you success.

Glenford Smith is a motivational speaker and success strategist. He is the author of From Problems to Power and co-author of Profile of Excellence.glenfordsmith@yahoo.com