How should I choose education based on the job I want next?

Look at several real job descriptions for the type of position you’re pursuing and identify recurring requirements such as:

• Experience
• Education
• Licensure

• Certifications
• Leadership responsibilities
• Technical knowledge
• Communication skills
• Management experience
• Specialty knowledge

Then separate those requirements into two groups:

Requirements you must formally possess and skills or knowledge you can strengthen through professional development.

That helps you choose education with a purpose rather than simply collecting courses.