Abstract
Career growth is a vital aspect of personal and professional development across all fields of specialization, encompassing upward mobility, additional benefits, and salary enhancements. Achieving career growth demands dedication, hard work, and continuous improvement within one’s chosen field. Notably, pursuing graduate studies education can significantly impact an individual’s career trajectory. This study explored the motivations driving professionals to pursue graduate studies and assessed the resulting impact on their career growth. A total of 125 graduates was surveyed from a selected private higher education institution over the academic years 2013 – 2019. As a result of the study, professionals are intrinsically motivated for their personal aspiration, professional development and career advancement. It is also found out that graduate studies education significantly contributed to career growth by providing specialized knowledge and skills training, widening professional networks, and strengthening their credentials. Also, the impact on career advancement, earning potential, and career opportunities varies based on the highest degree earned and sector of employment. Findings calls for professionals to pursue graduate studies education to further strengthen their specialized knowledge and skills credentials and professional network for career growth.
