Mid-career path...

[CWalz]

I have over 20 years experience in mapping and modeling in the petroleum industry using industry-specific software. I would really like to expand my fields of interest and my knowledge base. To this end I have begun working with a couple of non-profs in different fields and learning what interests me - and where my skill set really is - and getting some training in ESRI/Arcmap.

If I wanted to 'up' my credentials in order to procure more paying contract work from more varied clients, do you think it would be more beneficial to pursue a graduate education in GIS (either a graduate certificate or a master's degree) or would it be more useful to gain an ESRI certificate?

To employers, do either of these matter, or is it more the case that I just need to gain more varied experience through training and volunteering?

[MattSheehan]

I'd say expand your skills. We look for people with skills which fit project requirements. Masters degrees are often academic, and not applied (unlike many of my colleagues, i forced my adviser to accept an applied Masters degree which set me in good stead, but took 3 years to complete). So certificate, degree? Most important are what you know and can do.   

[ChrisDonohue__GISP]

I agree with Matt Sheehan - it is important to show what you can do over having a degree or certification.  I say this as many employers don't know what value the certification brings (unfortunately) or even what it is, be it ESRI's certification, GISP, or others.

If you have a specific field in mind, I would try to network with GIS professionals in that field to see if a degree or certification is desired.  Note that GIS is broad, so this can vary depending on which specific field you are in.  For example, in the Public Sector, many mid-level and above jobs require a degree in GIS as a prerequisite (which is not the case typically in the Private Sector).

Chris Donohue, GISP