Masters Degree Thailand Or Aussie Online?

[jahjah]

Hello all,

I have not been on this site for some time, but I'd really appreciate some advice.

I have worked in Thailand for 4 years, initially for an Architect, then once I got sick of the low pay I moved onto teaching, where I now have a comfortable role.

Education wise, I have a Bachelor of Spatial Design (New Zealand) and recently an Advanced Diploma Interior Design (Bangkok). I decided I would continue with a Masters Degree in the arena of Design or Architecture, then seek work in Bangkok - I have my eye on the Design related Private Tertiary Establishments, which there are a few of.

Now at 29, I'm beginning to take my future more seriously. I decided pursuing a Master of Architecture would be the best qualification, for a sustainable income (education related as mentioned above) in Thailand, and secondly if things change and I want out, this is the degree I want.

I applied to Melbourne Uni for Master of Architecture, and didn't get accepted. I also applied for a Master of Design (Interior Design) at a Melbourne University and I have been accepted + they run this program online from 2012, so if I accept I can keep my well paid teaching job here in Thailand, and pursue the M.Des over 18 months in my free time. However, I'm concerned this is taking easy street and after a few years of tertiary teaching in BKK I might be no further ahead than now.

The other local option is Chulalongkon - they are now offering a Master of Architecture (International Program). For a semi-cognate undergrad, it's looking like about 2.5 years full time. Doing this degree would mean living on a tight budget in BKK for the duration, and working hard. Is it worth it??

The Melbourne Design Degree is probably better for tertiary teaching in BKK, but beyond that I'd like to be capable to work or consult as an Architect, not just an Interior Designer.

Anyone with some knowledge in common, what are your thoughts??

Thanks in advance, j

[Scott]

Wow. This is way out of my field, however, all things considered, I would go with the Melbourne degree. Unless you plan to stay in Thailand for a long time, the degree from Australia will likely have more mileage.

Chulalongkorn is a good school, but how well are they known in your field? If your staying in Thailand the name Chula probably will get you more mileage than Australia.

Seems like 6 of one and 1/2 dozen of the other.

Best of luck to you and keep us posted.

[mezzy]

Are there other uni's in Australia that offer a Masters in Architecture? To be honest a degree from overseas is going to appear more prestigious to employers than one from here. Companies do like saying they have internationally qualified employees, rather than local.

There has to be other universities in Australia or even other countries that offer your Masters online. Shop around more and apply.

[sirchai]

Whatever you're doing, you seem to be on the right way. Get your Masters from your country if you'd like to stay in Thailand. It's always good to think about the future. Good luck!

[jahjah]

Thank you all for your opinions.

I think my question was a bit vague; because I was comparing two different degrees, and my preference is M.Arch.

Yes the Aussie degree is going to look better working in the western world .. untravelled people have some strange perceptions about Thailand!

However, I will probably not do the Aussie M.Des because it's not really the degree I want.

The Chulalongkorn program is a pathway to becoming a registered Architect in my country (with the addition of 2 - 3 more papers in New Zealand), so it seems a valid thing to spend the time on.

I don't know if I will be accepted, will see what happens.

cheers, j

[Scott]

Best of luck to you.