A master’s degree is a post-secondary graduate degree that is awarded by universities. It usually requires about 60 credits or 20 courses to obtain, typically taking about two years to complete. While the amount of time to secure this degree is depends on the credit load you can manage during a semester, most people finish their master’s degree within two years.
Generally, master’s degrees are awarded in two different classifications: master of arts and master of science. Although these two-degree distinctions may seem completely different, they are quite similar. One university may grant a master of arts in biology, while another may grant a master of science for it. The names are just semantics and do not reflect the topics studied. However, there are some types of master’s degrees that have special focuses, with the below illustrating a few examples.
This degree is the next step after earning a bachelor’s degree in a business-related major, or for those who simply intend to pursue a business-related career path. The specializations offered in this program include finance, accounting, management, marketing, human resources, and others.
This degree is the final degree for those intent on becoming social workers, as it is generally a requirement in the field. This is an interesting degree, because it requires two years of study plus two years of field experience that are completed while studying.
This degree is popular for those who wish to serve in upper-level positions in government, nongovernmental organizations or nonprofit organizations. It is somewhat like a management MBA, but it places a focus on the management of governmental affairs.
There are two different ways to receive a master’s degree; deciding which one to choose depends on personal preferences and resources.
Traditional: A master’s degree can be pursued at a university, and for a long time, this was the only way to receive the degree.
Online: The Internet is a powerful resource for various things, and among them is education. The online path to a master’s degree is perfect for those who cannot commit to commuting or living at a school due to work or family obligations.
Students must possess a bachelor’s degree and satisfactory scores on graduate exams in their field (GRE, GMAT).
GRE: The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized examination for entrance into most graduate programs. The exam consists of four parts.
* Verbal Reasoning: a multiple-choice section scored from 200-800 points in increments of 10 which mainly tests knowledge of vocabulary. Typically consists of 30 questions and 30 minutes are given to complete it.
* Quantitative Reasoning: this section tests students’ reasoning abilities and usually contains 14 quantitative comparison questions, 10 discrete quantitative questions (multiple-choice) and four data interpretation questions. It is scored the same way as the verbal reasoning sections and 45 minutes are given to complete it.
* Analytical Writing: this section asks the test-taker to complete two different essays (Issue and Argument). Both essays are scored on a scale of 0-6.
* Issue: this essay presents an issue to the test taker and asks them to state their feelings/ideas about it. 45 minutes are given to complete this.
* Argument: This essay provides the test taker with an argument and asks them to consider the logic behind it and critique it. 30 minutes are given to complete this.
GMAT: The GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) utilizes the same format as the GRE but presents questions that are more prevalent for those who wish to enter a business-related field.
The costs of a master’s degree at a university can vary quite widely; anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 a year. Online degrees are typically cheaper and will generally range from $10,000 to $50,000 for the entire degree, making them about half the cost of a traditional degree.
All schools offer financial aid for students based on need or achievements. Contact the school you are interested in to learn more about their financial aid policies and requirements.
Most people who are pursuing a master’s degree have been in the workplace for some time. Schools understand this and make accommodations for their students regarding scheduling and the general methods of teaching. Don’t let your fear stop you from pursuing higher education!
There is a wide variety of majors to choose from in a master’s degree program. Almost any career you can think of has a master’s degree that corresponds with it.
Some professions require a master’s degree – many of which relate to the health industry. However, other jobs like statistician, political science and economist roles also require this level of education. On the other end of the spectrum, many professions don’t require this degree; rather, they prefer it.
With this advanced education comes additional earning potential in post-graduate careers. Illustrating this is 2018 research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. When comparing the average weekly income between those with a high school and a master’s education, there was about a $700 disparity. This equates to around $1,400/month and nearly $17,000/year.
As illustrated, securing a master’s education presents many financial and career opportunities.
Explore master’s programs today.