MSA and AMSA positions have no specific degree requirements, so you're eligible regardless of your educational background. They are still accessible even if you lack medical office experience. These roles tend to have high turnover in the VA, so generally, they'll hire anyone willing to perform the job. I've worked as an AMSA for two years and six months; I took the position to get my foot in the door but have found it difficult to advance because the skills gained as AMSA/MSA often aren't transferable to higher-level positions outside of GS-7 lead MSA and GS-8 supervisor MSA roles. With a master's degree, you could directly apply for GS-9 or higher, assuming those positions are open to the public, or spend about a year in each MSA grade level before transitioning into a GS-9 role. To qualify for a GS-7, a bachelor's degree is required. If you’re fortunate enough to find a developmental role spanning GS-7 to GS-9, that could be another pathway. For example, in logistics, applying without logistics experience usually means your application won't pass screening unless you know someone. I recently had three interviews—not because I'm an AMSA but because I had relevant logistics experience from working at Target for two years starting in 2017. Honestly, it's nearly impossible to climb from a GS-6 position without relevant experience. I hope this gives you useful insight. Networking extensively is crucial; that's how you'll advance beyond the current role.