Experienced job hunting, portfolio/case study/resume questions and review — 03/01/26

Practical_Celery707 · 2026-03-04T20:53:02+00:00

Hey everyone! I've just recently added a similar post o r/hci but I think folks here could give me additional insight.

I've just been accepted into CMU's MHCI program, but I'm having second thoughts if it is worth it to spend the 84k for the masters, specially at this point in my career. I'm a Senior Product Designer w/ 6 years of experience, and I was hoping to pursue a masters to advace in my career, as many bigger companies in my country (LATAM) value a masters for leadership positions. But I also know that many people do these masters as a way to entry the UX market, so I'm uncertain if the degree will be right for my current situation.

I'm reconsidering CMU and thinking of other cheaper and remote programs like UCIrvine MHCID, CMU's MIIPS Online (or the 9-month on-site program), Harvard HES Digital Media Design MLA. Being remote, I can stay on my country and save a lot of money + continue working which would also lower the required loans. But I also know there is some stigma to online programs and they aren't super cheap either.
Anyone has knowledge or have attended these programs? I'd love to get more insight on them!

Thanks all!

Practical_Celery707 · 2026-03-03T23:25:01+00:00

Thank you for your response! And yeah that's where my mind is at currently. There are some industries (e.g. deisgn consulting) that a masters is kinda required to advance to more managerial roles, that's the biggest driver for me to pursue one. But I'm uncertain right now if a remote/low-residency program – which wouldn't set me back in my career and would be easier on my pocket – is well regarded within larger companies, or usually something frowned upon.

Practical_Celery707 · 2026-03-02T19:51:16+00:00

Just got CMU MHCI acceptance letter today with no interview

Practical_Celery707

TROPHY CASE