A master’s degree today can be a ticket to a whole new career. As competition in the job market ramps up, employers are looking for specialized expertise to meet their business goals, and professionals with a master’s degree are equipped to take businesses to the next level.
The demand for professionals with a master’s degree is growing, and now is a great time to consider pursuing this type of graduate degree. With affordable options, online options, and accelerated options across countless fields of study, anyone can earn a master’s degree and bolster their career opportunities and earning potential.
This comprehensive guide is a deep dive into the range of master’s degrees available today, including the best master’s degrees for a career change and the most affordable master’s degrees. You’ll also learn about the best master’s degree jobs, how to add a master’s degree to your resume, and what types of financial aid are available to graduate students.
Master’s Degree Definition: What Is a Master’s Degree?
A master’s degree is a graduate-level degree acquired from a college or university. It can be pursued after completing an undergraduate program and earning a bachelor’s degree. Although master’s degree programs are shorter, at two years on average, than a four-year undergraduate degree, they are much more rigorous and harder to get into.
To gain admission into a master’s degree program, you will have to show that you maintained a relatively high GPA from an accredited institution during your undergraduate studies. Some programs even require you to have work experience in a related field before you’re accepted. There are also fewer master’s programs than bachelor’s programs, so admissions are competitive.
Accredited Master’s Programs: Why Accreditation Matters
In the US today, there are a wide range of educational institutions, but not all of them are equipped to offer students a quality education. This is where accreditation comes in. Accreditation is issued by outside bodies to programs and schools that meet predetermined criteria for providing the quality, standardized education demanded by a given field.
Studying an accredited master’s program means students will graduate with a degree from a recognized and credentialed program. This will allow them easier access to jobs in the field and professional advancement throughout their careers.
Master’s Degree Fast Facts
- Required Credits: 30-60 credits
- Average Length: 2 years
- Average Cost: $19,792 per year
How Many Credits Is a Master’s Degree?
Master’s degree programs typically require the completion of 30 to 60 credits. This range is dependent on the requirements of the specific program and school.
More technical or clinical programs, such as those in the engineering, medical, or sciences, could require more than 60 credits to graduate. For example, a Master’s in Nursing requires anywhere from 36 to 72 credits, a Master’s in Architecture program typically requires 42 to 110 credits, and a Master of City and Regional Planning is granted upon completion of 45 to 72 credits.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master’s Degree?
It takes two years to get a master’s degree, on average. This relatively short-term time frame can be even shorter if you pursue an accelerated master’s degree program alongside your bachelor’s degree studies. A master’s degree may take longer than two years to complete if the program is more lengthy or rigorous, or if you are studying part-time.
How Much Does a Master’s Degree Cost?
A master’s degree costs an average of $19,792 in yearly tuition and fees across all institutions in the US, according to National Center for Education Statistics. Breaking it down further, tuition and fees for graduate education at public universities cost $12,410, while private institutions charge more, with non-profit schools charging $28,430 and for-profit schools charging $14,289.
If you pursue an online master’s degree program, the tuition costs may be lower than they might be for an equivalent in-person master’s degree. This is often the case as studying remotely doesn’t require the use of on-campus services or amenities such as libraries or labs.
Is a Master’s Degree a Graduate Degree?
Yes, a master’s degree is a graduate degree. A graduate degree is a type of degree pursued after successfully completing an undergraduate bachelor’s degree. The other type of graduate degree is a doctoral degree.
Also called a doctorate or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), doctorates are considered the final level of academic learning and mastery available to students. Many doctoral programs require prospective students to have completed a master’s degree. However, some only require a bachelor’s degree.
Where Do You Get a Master’s Degree?
You can get a master’s degree from an accredited college or university in the US. While you may also be able to earn one from an unaccredited institution, it is better to earn your education and credentials from a reputable and industry-approved program.
Online colleges and universities also have master’s degrees available. This can be a solid option for someone who needs a more flexible learning format or would like to study at a school that is not local to them without having to move. Online master’s degree programs also make it easier to study around personal, familial, or work obligations.
Best Master’s Degrees
[query_class_embed] *subject-masters-degrees
Why Get a Master’s Degree?
You should get a master’s degree because it is often the key to career advancement. Master’s degree graduate school programs serve two main functions. They allow bachelor’s degree graduates to build upon their subject knowledge from their undergraduate program. They also allow students to transition into a new career field or advance in their current profession.
Top Benefits of a Master’s Degree
- Career advancement. Earning a master’s degree sets you apart from colleagues in the workplace when it comes time for promotions. A master’s degree provides you an edge through specialized knowledge and expertise.
- Higher earning potential. With a master’s degree credential, you can earn higher salaries as your added expertise makes you a valuable asset to teams and companies.
- More expertise in your chosen field. The curricula offered in master’s programs go deep on the subject matter being studied. This provides you with a more comprehensive understanding of topics, mechanisms, and processes, as well as more hands-on experience with this knowledge, than someone with just a bachelor’s degree in the field.
- Broader job prospects. With a master’s degree on your resume, you will stand out from other applicants as a highly qualified candidate, making you more competitive for many high-paying job opportunities.
Types of Master’s Degrees: Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MS)
There are many types of master’s degrees, but the most common are Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MS). Below is an overview of each and what makes them different from one another.
Master of Arts (MA)
Students who study arts and humanities, such as theater, geography, English, and communication, can earn a Master of Arts. These programs often focus on social science disciplines, such as sociology and psychology.
MA programs involve extensive amounts of research, lecturing, and writing as part of the coursework. These programs may require students to complete a thesis and they typically take two years to complete.
Master of Science (MS)
A Master of Science degree focuses on more scientific topics. Those who pursue an MS degree can explore subjects such as computer science, engineering, and chemistry. MS degrees can take two or more years to complete.
Some of the professions related to an MS degree may require graduates to get further credentials or qualifications to work in the field, such as licensure, certification, or professional experience. Graduates from these programs can also go on to pursue a doctoral degree.
Types of Master of Arts Programs
Master of Arts programs equip students to find success in a wide variety of fields. Among these programs, the following are the most popular in terms of widespread availability, career opportunities, and success in the field after graduation.
Types of Master of Science Programs
Master of Science (MS) programs allow students to work in exciting fields related to science, technology, and finance. Below is a list of the most popular MS programs for students looking to succeed in a career in these fields.
Other Types of Master’s Degrees
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a master’s degree if you have the right educational background to prepare you. Taking a master’s program related to your bachelor’s degree will expand upon the knowledge gained during your undergraduate program, further making you an expert in the field.
It can be difficult to earn a master’s degree if you are pivoting to a new field or studying a more technical topic. For example, someone with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business who wants to complete a Master’s in Economics could find the new focus more challenging than someone who has already earned a Bachelor’s in Economics.
What Are the Features of an Easy Master’s Degree?
The features of an easy master’s degree include approachable subject matter, typically without a technical focus, content that allows for flexible learning formats, and a broad level of application to careers in a wide range of fields. Below are three master’s degrees that typically offer these common features.
Easy Master’s Degree Examples
- Master’s Degree in Communications. Earning a communications master’s degree can easily be completed online as most of the coursework is delivered through virtual lectures. Students can find work in an enormous variety of industries as companies in every sector require communications to connect to the public.
- Master’s Degree in Education. This master’s degree can also be learned easily through online or hybrid learning methods. The subject matter isn’t technical and doesn’t require lab work or intensive software tutorials. These degrees are also offered by a majority of educational institutions.
- Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management. This degree can be pursued on the heels of a bachelor’s degree or just with extensive work experience in the field. Supply chain management involves a lot of theory that can be studied in a flexible learning environment. The content isn’t overly technical either and graduates can find an abundance of work in the stable supply chain industry.
How to Get a Master’s Degree: Admission Requirements and Application
The admission requirements for a master’s degree application can range widely depending on the field of study. With a few exceptions, all master’s degree programs require the applicant to have completed a bachelor’s degree and provide unofficial or official transcripts to prove it. Applicants must also complete an application form and submit letters of recommendation.
Admission requirements for a master’s degree that may vary between departments or institutions include a minimum GPA, resume, statement of purpose, and GRE or GMAT scores. Applicants may also need to provide proof of undergraduate coursework in certain topics, as is common when pursuing a master’s in a STEM field.
Applying for a Master’s Degree: Requirements for Admission
- Bachelor’s degree
- Letters of recommendation
- Transcripts
- Statement of purpose
Applying for a Master’s Degree: Application Process
- Review the admission requirements for the desired program of study and ensure you are able to fulfill them before beginning your application.
- Fill out an application form provided by the program department.
- Attach requested documentation such as official transcripts, proof of GRE or GMAT test scores, letters of recommendation, and completed essay questions or statement of purpose.
- International applicants must attach TOEFL or IELTS scores for proof of English language proficiency.
- Pay the application fee if applicable.
- Attend an interview with the admissions team if applicable.
- Apply for any financial aid programs available.
- Wait to hear from the admissions team for a decision on your application.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-bachelors-degrees
How to Get a Master’s Degree: Graduation Requirements
You can get a master’s degree by fulfilling the graduation requirements set out by the program department or the university. These requirements will vary by program, department, and school, but typically have core specifications across all areas of study.
Master’s Degree Requirements for Graduation
- Complete required credits.
- Maintain a minimum GPA.
- Ensure all tuition and fees are paid.
- Complete a capstone project, thesis, or internship, if required.
What Is a Master’s Thesis?
A master’s thesis is an extensive research document produced by master’s degree students to showcase their research skills and understanding of their coursework. In many master’s programs, it is a compulsory requirement to graduate.
Is a Thesis Required for a Master’s Degree?
No, a thesis isn’t always required for a master’s degree. In fact, a program may offer students a choice between completing a thesis and a non-thesis option, with separate requirements to fulfill in order to graduate. Non-thesis options could require further coursework, a capstone project, or an internship.
How Long Is a Master’s Thesis?
A master’s thesis is 40 to 80 pages long, not including the bibliography. It is longer than a bachelor’s thesis but shorter than a doctoral dissertation. Students in master’s degree programs generally spend two semesters completing the research and writing their master’s thesis.
How to Write a Master’s Thesis: Step by Step
- Choose a topic and thesis question. This first step is important because you’ll be working on your master’s thesis for a long time. The topic you choose, and the thesis question you decide to focus on, should be something of interest to you and that you’re passionate about. This will keep you engaged throughout the research and writing process.
- Research. After choosing your topic and focus question, conduct thorough research to answer this question. Gathering information will help inform you on the breadth of knowledge available to you and whether your question is something worth going forward with.
- Review related literature and choose sources. Review related literature, with a focus on the most recent published works. This step should be very thorough to ensure your question and research are not duplicating work that has already been published. You must also select your key primary sources as the factual base of your thesis and secondary sources as the contextual base.
- Write on a schedule. When it’s time to write, prepare an outline to give you the full picture of what you need to accomplish. It is wise to set a realistic schedule to give yourself plenty of time to complete the writing stage. Use the Pomodoro technique to take regular breaks to keep yourself from burning out.
- Review requirements, edit, and print. After you’ve finished writing, go through your thesis draft and compare it to the university’s requirements for a master’s thesis. This is an important step to ensure your completed thesis will qualify you for graduation. This review stage will be followed by a thorough edit and proofread. Be sure to also follow any guidelines indicated for printing the thesis.
How to Pay for Your Master’s Degree
Studying at the postsecondary level can be expensive, whether you’re pursuing your education at a public or private institution. Thankfully, there are various options to help pay for your tuition and fees, including grants, loans, and scholarships.
Master’s Degree Grants and Scholarships
Grants and scholarships for master’s degree programs can help take the financial burden off students so they can focus on their studies. These types of financial aid are awarded based on merit and do not have to be paid back.
Grants are most often awarded to students who demonstrate financial need or other criteria such as academic performance or the type of degree being pursued. Some grants can be applied for through financial aid applications such as FAFSA, while others require a separate application to the college or organization providing it.
Scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate a high level of academic or professional achievement. They are provided by educational institutions, companies, and organizations. Many scholarships are offered to students taking a particular program or focusing their graduate studies on a certain type of research.
Master’s Degree Student Loans
Another way to help pay for graduate school is through student loans. Students studying for a master’s degree can opt for federal student loans or private student loans. Federal student loans are the easiest to acquire and have flexible repayment options, including income-driven repayment schemes.
Federal student loans also offer protections in case of personal circumstances that delay repayment as well as government loan forgiveness programs. Student loans at the federal level have a cap on yearly loan amounts, which is an important factor to consider when choosing a loan option.
For federal student loans, interest will begin accruing right away, but repayment isn’t required until after graduation. It is also worth noting that interest rates for graduate students tend to be higher than rates for undergraduate students.
Private student loans come in the form of state-based loans and loans from nonprofit lenders and for-profit lenders. Each will have varying loan amounts, interest rates, and repayment options. It is very important to conduct thorough research on loan offerings when shopping around for private or state-based lenders.
Financial Aid for Your Master’s Degree: Other Options
- Fellowships. Fellowships are similar to scholarships in that they don’t have to be paid back. They can cover all or part of your master’s degree program. Fellowships are typically awarded by universities, companies, or non-profit organizations.
- Graduate Assistantships. This type of financial aid is provided as a stipend in exchange for work in an educational department teaching classes or conducting research while pursuing your degree.
- Work-Study Program. The Federal Work-Study Program provides part-time work to students of all educational levels, both on-campus and off. When available, these programs will place you in a job with work aligned with your program of study, or with work in the community.
What Comes After a Master’s Degree?
After completing a master’s degree, students can go on to study for a post-master’s certificate or pursue a doctoral degree. Both of these educational pathways offer further expertise in a chosen area of study and can add further credentials to your academic and professional resume.
What Is a Post-Master’s Certificate?
A post-master’s certificate is a short program for graduates of master’s programs to efficiently expand on and develop their skills in a specialized area of study. It is an ideal option for professionals with a master’s degree who want to further their professional career without committing to a lengthy, full master’s program.
What Is the Difference Between a Graduate Certificate and a Master’s Degree?
The difference between a graduate certificate and a master’s degree is the length of time, the focus of study, and admission requirements. A master’s degree requires a completed undergraduate degree for admission. It typically takes two years to complete and focuses on providing a broad education to students.
A graduate certificate focuses on a specific skill or area of knowledge to provide specialization to professionals with prior graduate-level education in the field. It requires a completed master’s degree for admission and usually takes two terms or one year to complete.
What Is a PhD?
A PhD, or Doctor of Philosophy, is a degree earned at the doctoral level, which is considered the highest level of academic achievement. Depending on the program it can require three to eight years of study in which students produce original research. The program culminates in a doctoral dissertation that presents this research, which must be defended before a panel of experts.
A PhD is often required for positions as college professors, scientists, or researchers in various fields. For other fields, having a PhD will open up lucrative job opportunities at the managerial, senior, or executive level.
Best Online PhD Programs
[query_class_embed] online-phd-in-*subject
What Is the Difference Between a Master’s and a PhD?
The difference between a master’s and a PhD is the intensity of the study, the length of the program, and the careers available after graduation. A master’s degree typically lasts two years and expands on the knowledge gained in an undergraduate program. For many fields, a master’s is quickly becoming a required credential, making them more widespread among candidates for various jobs.
A PhD is an intensive three-to-eight-year program that requires students to have already completed a bachelor’s program and master’s program, though sometimes a master’s is optional. A PhD program requires the focused pursuit of novel research in a field. Having a PhD opens you up to top-level careers in most fields, and is a requirement for careers such as university professor or lead researcher.
PhD vs Master’s Salary
According to PayScale, the average master’s degree holder earns an average annual salary of $79,000, while a PhD holder’s salary is $101,000 annually, on average. This 27 percent increase means that pursuing a PhD program is a financially lucrative option for someone with senior- or executive-related career goals.
Best Schools for a Master’s Degree
The top schools known for their master’s degree programs will provide unparalleled education in the field, and their prestige will open up many career opportunities for you. Below are some of the top master’s degree programs offered by renowned graduate schools, as ranked by US News & World Report. Graduation rate statistics are from College Scorecard.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Master’s Program |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia University | 93% | Master of Arts in Economics |
| Johns Hopkins University | 93% | Master of Science in Nursing |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 95% | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering |
| Northwestern University (Kellogg) | 95% | Executive Master of Business Administration |
| University of California, Berkeley | 93% | Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering |
| University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | 86% | Master of Science in Library and Information Science |
| University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | 90% | Master of Public Health |
| University of Pennsylvania (Wharton) | 97% | Master of Business Administration in Finance |
| University of Southern California | 93% | Master of Arts in Occupational Therapy |
| Yale University | 98% | Master of Laws |
How to Get a Master’s Degree Fast
You can get a master’s degree fast by enrolling in an accelerated master’s degree. These programs are five years in length and let students study for a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree at the same time. This type of program saves time and money, as it is one year less than the traditional academic path of earning a four-year bachelor’s degree first and then a two-year master’s degree.
Best Accelerated Master’s Programs
- Master of Science in Instructional Design and Learning Technology | Anderson University | Length: 1 year
- Master of Arts in Political Science | Colorado State University | Length: 1 year
- Master of Science in Civil or Environmental Engineering | Cleveland State University | Length: 1 year
- Master of Public Health | Harvard University | Length: 1 year
- Master of Business Administration with a Concentration in Data Analytics | Southeastern Oklahoma University | 1 year
Best Accelerated Degrees
[query_class_embed] accelerated-*subject-degrees
Online Master’s Degrees: Why Get a Master’s Degree Online?
Pursuing your master’s degree online is a great way to advance your career while still meeting the demands of your everyday life. When going to a traditional graduate school, many students face the difficulties of commuting, creating a schedule, and finding time to complete their coursework.
Online master’s degree programs allow students to study at their own pace and complete their degree as quickly or slowly as they’d prefer. Through online master’s degree programs, it’s possible to earn your degree from the comfort of your own home through an established university. Below are some of the benefits that come with an online degree.
Top Benefits of an Online Master’s Degree
- More Options. Several colleges and universities are available to you when you choose online master’s degree programs. You can choose out-of-state universities without moving or commuting long distances.
- Asynchronous Learning. Most online master’s degree programs allow you to learn at your own pace. You’ll be given certain tasks to complete and told when they need to be submitted.
- College Resources. Some students are afraid that online programs mean they won’t be able to take advantage of college resources. However, many universities offer online resources to students to aid them in their education.
- Experienced Faculty and Professors. Throughout your degree program, you’ll be able to communicate with the faculty and your professors. In most cases, your professors will have experience in the industry or extensive knowledge to aid you.
- Networking Opportunities. Participating in any graduate program, whether in-person or online, gives you opportunities to network with your peers and professionals. Some schools even have fairs or events specifically dedicated to networking.
How Long Does an Online Master’s Degree Take?
An online master’s degree program takes an average of two years to complete. However, this can be much shorter depending on the flexibility of the program’s schedule. For example, if you are able to complete the coursework at your own pace, you could finish a master’s program in one to 1.5 years.
A master’s degree could take over two years if you are studying at a part-time pace. This may be necessary if you are studying while managing other obligations, such as a full-time job or caring for a family. Most online master’s degree programs have a maximum number of years you must complete your degree within.
How Much Does an Online Master’s Degree Cost?
An online master’s degree costs around $19,792 in annual tuition and fees, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. However, this amount varies greatly depending on the type of institution and the degree program.
Typically, online master’s degrees are cheaper than earning a master’s on campus because online students can study from home or in the city where they’re based. This means they don’t have to pay for costs associated with moving on or near campus or regularly commuting to the school. The lack of access to on-campus facilities and services could also make an online master’s degree more affordable.
Most Affordable Online Master’s Programs
- Master of Science in School Psychology | Fort Hays State University | Tuition: $298.55/credit. This program at Fort Hays State University requires students to complete the Education Specialist in School Psychology program alongside their master’s, which makes them eligible for licensure. Students will also complete a 1,200-hour supervised internship in order to graduate.
- Master of Business Administration | Wayne State College | Tuition: $380/credit. This online, non-thesis MBA program offers optional focus areas in human resource management, supply chain management, and accounting. The affordable, per-credit tuition is a flat rate offered to all students regardless of residency status.
- Master of Science in Technology Management | Southeast Missouri State University | Tuition: $367.25/credit. The online Master of Science in Technology Management program at Southeast Missouri State University aims to provide students with skills to effectively lead technology-based companies and corporations. The degree can be tailored to fit career goals related to cyber security, telecommunications, manufacturing, and other areas.
- Master of Science in Finance | University of Texas Permian Basin | Tuition: $346/credit. This 30-credit online master’s degree program focuses on the field of finance from a management perspective. This program is STEM-certified, a notable distinction to employers, and University of Texas Permian Basin is proud of its affordable and competitive tuition rates.
- Master of Library and Information Studies | University of Alabama | Tuition: $440/credit. The Master of Library and Information Studies at the University of Alabama is a 36-hour course with optional concentrations in Archival Studies or School Library Media. Coursework focuses on topic areas such as digital stewardship, public and academic libraries, information literacy, and youth services.
Can I Get a Free Master’s Degree Online?
No, you cannot get a free master’s degree online from an accredited college or university. This is because high-quality education involves experienced faculty that teach using learning resources such as software programs for distance learning, which costs the university money to provide. Your tuition goes towards ensuring you are earning a top education.
Best Online Master’s Degree Programs
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-masters-degrees
How to Get a Master’s Degree Online
You can get a master’s degree online in a similar way that you would earn an on-campus degree. Researching schools, applying and submitting documents, and completing required coursework on time are important steps to take when embarking on and working towards both types of master’s programs.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
The best online master’s degrees are available in a wide range of fields, and can give professionals the leverage they need to pursue career advancement goals. Some fields in particular are easier to master online.
Careers That Require a Master’s Degree: What Jobs Can You Get With a Master’s Degree?
With a master’s degree, professionals are equipped with the knowledge required to handle upper-level jobs in a wide range of industries. In more competitive fields, a master’s degree is quickly becoming a requirement for even entry-level positions. This section covers the career opportunities that await master’s degree graduates and the salaries to expect.
What Is the Average Salary of a Master’s Degree?
The average salary of someone with a master’s degree is $79,000 per year, according to PayScale. However, this amount will vary greatly depending on location, work experience, and industry.
How Much Does a Master’s Degree Increase Your Salary?
A master’s degree could increase your salary by 15 percent, as bachelor’s degree holders earn $67,000 on average per year compared to master’s degree holders’ average yearly salary of $79,000, according to PayScale. This drastic increase in salary would make studying for a one-year accelerated degree or a two-year full-time degree worthwhile.
Best Master’s Degrees for a Career Change
For many professionals, earning a master’s degree can help you pivot to a career in a different field. Many academic areas of study only require a bachelor’s degree to study at the graduate level and don’t specify a particular area. Also, prior knowledge from a bachelor’s program could prove useful to your master’s studies and future career.
What Are the Best Master’s Degrees for a Career Change?
- Master of Business Administration | Average Salary: $92,000
- Master of Science Project Management | Average Salary: $85,000
- Master of Finance | Average Salary: $82,000
- Master’s in Human Resources Management | Average Salary: $76,000
- Master of Arts in Communication | Average Salary: $67,000
Highest-Paying Jobs With a Master’s Degree: In Brief
| Job | Required Master’s Degree | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and information research scientists | Master of Science in Computer Science | $131,490 |
| Nurse anesthetists, nurse midwives, and nurse practitioners | Master of Nursing | $123,780 |
| Political scientists | Master’s in Political Science | $122,510 |
| Physician assistants | Master of Health Science | $121,530 |
| Mathematicians | Master’s in Mathematics | $108,100 |
| Economists | Master of Economics | $105,630 |
| Postsecondary education administrators | Master of Education | $96,910 |
| Sociologists | Master’s in Sociology | $92,910 |
| Occupational therapists | Master of Occupational Therapy | $85,570 |
| Psychologists | Master’s in Psychology | $81,040 |
Highest-Paying Master’s Degree Jobs: In Depth
Earning a master’s degree opens up opportunities for more lucrative careers. With higher expertise comes higher employment desirability for companies. A master’s degree also provides the necessary education required for career advancement into senior and managerial roles. Below are some of the highest-paid master’s degree jobs you can get after graduation.
How to List a Master’s Degree on Your Resume
Listing your master’s degree on your resume is easy to do. Simply add it to your existing education section alongside other diplomas or degrees. Make sure to use reverse chronological order and list your most recent education first. This means that your master’s degree should be listed first, above your bachelor’s degree or associate degree.
When it comes to the format, start with the years of study completed. On the next line, write the name of the school and the city and state of the campus where you studied, all separated with commas. On the third line, write the degree achieved. Be sure to include any specialization.
When writing the name of your degree, you can use the full name or the abbreviated version of the degree. For example, you could write Master of Science in Computer Science or MS in Computer Science. If you choose to use periods in the abbreviation, make sure any other abbreviated degrees listed on your resume also include periods for consistency.
You can also add your grade point average (GPA) to your resume under the program name. However, it should be removed if five years have passed since graduating. This is because prospective employers may no longer consider it relevant.
You can add your master’s degree to your resume even while you are still studying. This requires modifying the format slightly by changing the date to say Expected date of completion:, adding the year of graduation, and then moving it below the program name to be the third line. This program should still remain at the top of the section.
Is a Master’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, a master’s degree is worth it. As the job market becomes more competitive, it is becoming increasingly important to get an edge over your competition by earning a graduate degree through higher education. In many career fields, an undergraduate degree, even if it’s a bachelor’s degree, is no longer enough.
If you have a love and passion for a specific subject and want to advance your career in that field, then it is in your best interest to pursue a master’s degree. Earn your master’s degree in two to three years and set yourself up for a lifelong, lucrative career.
Master’s Degree FAQ
It is not difficult to complete a master’s degree if you already have a background in the area in which you plan to study. Many master’s degrees are designed to act as a continuation of undergraduate studies and build upon the knowledge gained there.
Some master’s degree programs don’t require a background education on the same topic and instead provide a balance of foundational knowledge and more advanced learning to qualify graduates for master’s degrees.
Yes, there are some master’s programs you can pursue that don’t require a degree. Depending on the program, the department, and the university, some master’s degrees can be earned by having extensive work experience in the field of study. You can also choose to study for a combined bachelor’s and master’s degree, which typically lasts five years but provides both credentials.
The four types of degrees are associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate. Associate and bachelor’s degrees are undergraduate degrees. An associate degree lasts two years and the credits earned during this degree can often be applied to bachelor’s degree programs. A bachelor’s degree is a four-year program consisting of a range of core and elective courses to provide a well-rounded education.
A master’s degree and a doctorate degree are graduate degrees. A master’s degree focuses on providing advanced education to students on the topic being studied. A doctorate degree, or PhD, is the final level of academic achievement available in most fields, which is also referred to as a terminal degree. It requires extensive research over five or more years of study.
A master’s degree is quickly becoming the best degree for the future, as more and more of the population becomes educated at the college level. This means the job market is increasingly becoming more competitive, with applicants of similar educational backgrounds applying to the same jobs. A master’s degree can set you apart from other candidates.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
