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What's your long term career goals? You really need to nail this down and figure it out. Don't make it about the next 20 years but more along the lines of 5-10 years.

Where does an MS in CS fit in that vision?

If you're capable and its not too much sacrifice (ie. single, no kids, etc.) than doing it is really about opportunity cost. If you want to build a startup, the time is better spent on that. If you intend to continue as an employee and move up the ranks, it's maybe worthwhile but depends on your goals again (you already have a degree).

It looks like the MS might give you a great confidence boost in your own place in the industry (since you think you are lacking). Maybe find a way to get that without going through a full MS program.

Doing it part time is also a great idea.

Also, you will solidify your position as an engineer by doing what engineers do and that is building stuff. In your case, you might be better off spending that time contributing to high profile open source projects and continuing to show your skills via github. Whatever gaps you feel you have, find ways to fill it. Lots of great people in the industry that don't have your typical CS background. We are an industry that favors actual output.



I'm not sure what my career goals are. I know I want to get much better at my craft and I want to make sure I don't have any gaps in my education. I'm worried that, since I'm self taught, I don't know what I don't know and that a Masters can expose and fix holes in my knowledge.




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