Getting Your Master's, Is It Worth It?

Authors

• Vy Le, College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University
• Madyson Schreifels, College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

4-30-2026

Disciplines

Mathematics

Advisor

Bret Benesh

Abstract

This project uses a differential equation model to evaluate whether earning a master’s degree is financially worthwhile. Using UC Berkeley’s Master of Computer Science program as a case study, we modeled student loan repayment and compared long-term earnings between bachelor’s and master’s degree holders. The model predicts monthly loan payments and estimates the break-even point where the higher salary from the master’s degree outweighs the total investment cost. Results suggest that the degree becomes financially beneficial after approximately 15 years.

Recommended Citation

Le, Vy and Schreifels, Madyson, "Getting Your Master's, Is It Worth It?" (2026). Celebrating Scholarship and Creativity Day (2018-). 370.
https://digitalcommons.csbsju.edu/ur_cscday/370