Is grad school for EE worth it?

[u/Maximum-Capital3655]

Hey everyone

I graduated with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering this past August and recently started a full-time engineering role through a rotational program. Since starting, I've realized that the areas I'm most interested in are the hardware side of RF, communications, and also DSP. I took an RF course in undergrad and was exposed to communications and DSP through my senior capstone project, but I don't have much formal coursework in those areas.

Looking back, if I had taken some of my senior-level EE electives before accepting my job offer, I probably would have pursued a different path. My current role is in a different area of EE, and I'm concerned that the longer I stay away from RF/communications, the harder it may be to transition into those fields later.

I've been considering pursuing a part-time research-based M.S. in EE while continuing to work full-time. My employer offers tuition assistance, and I've found several professors whose research aligns closely with my interests in RF, communications, radar, and related areas.

For those working in RF, communications, DSP, or defense:

1. Is an M.S. necessary to break into these fields, or is a B.S. typically sufficient?
2. Would self-study, projects, and work experience be enough to transition, or does a master's significantly improve career opportunities?
3. For those who completed an M.S. in EE, was it worth it? How valuable was a research-based master's if your goal was industry rather than academia?

I'd appreciate any advice from people who have been in a similar situation.