How does postgraduate education impact salary increases?
Master's degrees aren't just for training scientists! Investing in further education, such as undergraduate and postgraduate studies, can directly impact the salaries of professionals at different hierarchical levels. According to the study "Masters and Doctors," conducted by the Center for Management and Strategic Studies (CGEE), linked to the Ministry of Science, Technology, Innovation and Communications (MCTIC), Brazilians with master's degrees earn, on average, four times more than other workers in the country.
Companies and government organizations are increasingly seeking well-rounded professionals, and in a few years, a college degree will be merely a prerequisite for those who aspire to ambitious career advancement and a consequent considerable increase in remuneration.
Over the past 20 years, following a global trend, master's degrees aligned with theory and practice have grown in Brazil and are an excellent alternative for those who wish to expand their theoretical knowledge through research and thus learn how to apply it in their work.
There are variations depending on the position and type of postgraduate degree.
Each postgraduate course has a different impact on remuneration, especially considering the position. Therefore, it is very important that you evaluate your professional desires and goals. This way, you will be able to choose which postgraduate course to invest in to have a better chance of return.
Catho Educação, the company responsible for conducting the 54th edition of the Salary Survey, included the participation of more than 2 million professionals from over 25 companies in just over 4 cities throughout Brazil. In management positions, for example, the salary difference between those with only an undergraduate degree and those with postgraduate degrees reaches almost 50%. Regarding assistant and analyst levels, the difference, depending on the sector, can reach 118%. The table below illustrates the percentage of salary difference according to the level of education:
A professional with a master's degree earns, on average, R$ 9.719,00, while the national average for other workers is R$ 2.449,00. In other words, the market recognizes highly qualified professionals. This reality will become increasingly common, and organizations need well-rounded professionals. Beyond experience, only qualifications will provide this capability; furthermore, investing in education is an excellent way for professionals to achieve their career goals. The table below shows the average salaries for different levels of education.
In the job market, concepts and processes are constantly evolving, and professionals must keep up with this demand. Investing in postgraduate studies, attending lectures and workshops, and reading content related to your field are fundamental actions. Continuing education ensures the highly valued professional development for people working in all areas and prevents professionals from becoming outdated.
Public sector employees can also increase their salaries.
If professional qualifications are a differentiating factor for those seeking a place in the competitive job market, among those who pass civil service exams, a degree can translate into increased income. Academic training is an alternative for public servants to achieve promotions. According to research by FGV, the average income of Brazilians who completed a master's degree is up to 66% higher than that of candidates who only completed an undergraduate degree.
Career progression is stipulated in the statutes governing municipal, state, and federal civil servants. The salary increase accompanies the payroll after retirement. The additional payment is carried over to retirement, as it is included in the basic salary. Those who have already stopped working but completed an academic course beyond the required qualifications for their position while still employed can apply for the additional payment at the Human Resources department of the agency where they worked. They need to submit their diploma and academic transcript. The skills acquired during a master's degree will strengthen your resume, making it more likely you will be able to secure a good position with higher pay. If a professional is seeking career progression, the best path is to learn new skills and knowledge.
