In Episode 3 of The Sports Careers Coach Podcast, Seth Levit and Jamie Carrig tackle one of the biggest decisions facing students who want to work in sports: Do you need a master’s degree, or are you better off gaining real-world experience?

Jamie earned a master’s degree in sports administration. Seth entered the sports industry with a bachelor’s degree and immediately began gaining experience with organizations including the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Dolphins. More than 30 years later, both have built successful careers in sports—and both believe their decision was right for them.

So how do you decide what's right for you?

Seth and Jamie make the case for both paths, discussing when a graduate degree can open doors, when experience may be more valuable, and the questions you should ask yourself before committing another two years—and potentially significant money—to school.

In this episode:

• When a master’s degree may be required for the career you want
• Why graduate school can build credibility, skills and your professional network
• Careers in collegiate athletics where an advanced degree can be especially valuable
• Why real-world sports experience can sometimes outweigh another degree
• The value of internships and getting your foot in the door
• The financial realities of graduate school
• Graduate assistantships and opportunities to have an employer help pay for your degree
• Whether aspiring coaches and professional sports employees need a master’s
• The questions to ask yourself before choosing school vs. experience

The biggest takeaway? There isn't one correct path into the sports industry. A master’s degree can create opportunities and remove potential career ceilings—but it won't create your career for you. Your experience, relationships, work ethic and what you do when an opportunity arrives still matter.

If you're a college student, recent graduate or young professional trying to build a career in sports, this episode can help you make one of your most important early-career decisions.