Is it ok to pursue a Master's Degree in a different field than your Bachelor's Degree

Is it ok to pursue a Master's Degree in a different field than your Bachelor's Degree?
I have a Bachelor's of Science degree in Computer Information Systems, and I want to pursue a Master's Degree in Counseling that a university where I live offers. Does this make any sense to do this? How would it work if I did this? How would employers look at it? I'm looking for answers preferrably from people who have actually done this. I'd like to know the pros and cons of it, and what their successes have been. Thanks so much for the help!
Higher Education (University +) - 5 Answers

Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1
Getting a master's degree in a field entirely different than one's undergraduate major is not uncommon these days.


2
Of course you can. People change directions in life all the time. Look into the prerequisites for the counseling program to make sure that you are eligible for admission. Employers will not hold your "previous life" against you. A number of employers, particularly in counseling, prefer people who are a little older, with more direction and experience. So long as you do well in your grad program and internship, and you can obtain strong letters of recommendation, employment will not be a problem. Of course, I'm assuming that the program is accredited, so make sure you look into that as well. Best of luck to you!


3
Of course you can...My boss has a Bachelors in Electronic Engineering and a Masters in Business Communications (go figure)...so YES...go for it!!


4
Of course you can get a different type of Master's degree. Employeers won't look at it negatively and in fact most might hire you hoping you'll be a cheap source of computer insight and knowledge!


5
That's what my friend did! He didn't like the undergrad major, so he changed. I think it's called growing up- you know yourself better and that makes you make different decisions. Good luck!