- applicant A: 20 years of experience. Bachelor and master degree in Computer Science
- applicant B: 23 years of experience. Bachelor in computer science
- applicant C: 26 years of experience. No degree
In the long term, all other things being equal, a degree gives you a boost (because, really, what's the difference of 20 vs 26 years of experience?). I'm not saying this is good or bad, it's just simple maths. Now, sure if you have skills other people don't usually have, sure perhaps you don't need a master degree in Computer Science to be competitive. I'm just exposing the usefulness of a degree for the average Joe.
Now, if you are asking this question I think it's because you are thinking about getting a degree just for the sake of it. If you wanted to do the degree only for the sake of knowledge, I think you wouldn't be asking here on HN :)
The reason i don't is because i like actual programming way more than the theory behind it. 4 Years of Java, computer history & hard crypto math sound like a pain for me that likely won't improve my main skills more than spending 4 years on those.
There is little computer history, and Java is usually used for an intro class (some might not have such one). Any math is more of an elective.
Is there a program you are basing these points off?
For once, it will always place your resume above the ones without a masters degree. And even if you look at the topics and think you won't like it or need it - you will always learn things that will likely be useful in the future! Be it to just get a different perspective on things or be able to suggest or bounce some ideas.
For me personally, the masters degree was the best thing I could have done. It helped me academically, made me a better programmer and helped several times when applying for jobs!
So yes, I highly recommend it!
As someone else posted, I also love coding but I enjoy the theory equally as much; if not a bit more
Also, since you really enjoy both theory and hands on coding you are well situated to get maximum benefit by applying theory to real problems.
Obviously, for some people and jobs, this degree is a great idea. Still, I suggest you look at the demand side as well as the supply side. How many job ads can you see with this requirement? What are the employment statistics like for people who currently have this degree, or previously graduated from the programs you are interested in?
Often, employers basically want someone who is minimally qualified for a job, and you don't really get any extra points for experience / qualifications beyond the minimum, and indeed it can count against you.