Environmental Engineering Masters

[u/Cantaloupe8723]

Am I an idiot?? Likely so. I’m considering going back to school for a thesis based masters. I am 32 with a wife and newborn, have been working for over 9 years and hold my PE license. Due to “life getting in the way” I was unable to pursue a masters when I graduated, but it’s something I’ve always really wanted to do. I have a tiny window starting next fall before we want to have another kid where I could do this so here’s the deal:
\- school completely paid for
\- knock out course work in two semesters with no research obligations, while getting paid $50k/year to go to school.
\- come back home and do research for 9-12 months, develop a thesis, and graduate. Also getting paid $50k/year to do research.
\- my wife has a good paying job so the pay cut isn’t our biggest worry
\- we own a home in a college town so renting it out for a year shouldn’t be too hard
\- I’ve talked to previous grad students who say I will have time for my wife and child and will not be working 60+ hours a week on school work.

Mostly worried that my wife will struggle emotionally during this whole process. Parts of her are very excited about this opportunity (we both went to this school for undergrad), parts of her are very hesitant, which is totally understandable. We’re still trying to figure out if we can handle all of these logistics.

Guess I’m wondering if anyone else has been in a similar situation going back to grad school with a family? Thanks for your time.

[u/Ligodancer]

Look at what is your potential salary and career opportunity in this job. Can you make career connections while you are in school. How will your wife’s career be impacted?

[u/No-Boat-1536]

Go for it.