A Master’s degree is a graduate level college degree that is given to
students who have demonstrated a mastery of an academic or professional field of
study. About six percent of Americans have achieved a Master’s degree according
to a survey that was conducted by the Census Bureau in 2005. People with this
degree are skilled in analysis and critical thinking and have an advanced level
of specialized knowledge.
Most Master’s degrees are designated as Master of Arts degrees or
Master of Science degrees. These degree programs require completion of graduate
level courses. Some programs also require the completion of research in an
academic specialty. Additional programs require completion of a written
dissertation on a complex topic.
Master’s degree programs are open to students who successfully pass
program admissions requirements. Most Master’s degree programs require
completion of an accredited bachelor’s degree with a high academic grade point
average. Some Master’s programs require work experience in a specific field of
study. Most Master’s programs are one to two years in
length
.
Some doctoral degree programs require completion of a Master’s degree
prior to enrollment. Depending on the field of study, some doctoral programs
allow a student to skip a Master’s degree and start working on a doctoral degree
immediately after a bachelor’s degree is
earned.
Graduate degrees are necessary for people who want to teach
undergraduates at many universities. Those who attain higher level teaching
positions often earn a doctoral degree. Master’s degrees in education are held
by many teachers in public school systems and in private
schools.
The Master’s in Business Administration degree, or MBA degree, is one
of the most popular graduate degrees. This degree program teaches students many
of the skills that are needed in order to run a business or work in a management
position. Unlike many other Master’s degree programs, MBA programs are sometimes
offered as part time evening programs for students who work during the
day.
Master of Arts degrees are offered for students who are interested in
many traditional liberal arts fields. Master’s in liberal arts degrees are
earned by many writers, historians, and others who have an interest in modern
culture. Those who work in the social sciences often pursue liberal arts
degrees.
People who want to work in management positions in government and
nonprofit organizations can earn a Master’s in Public Administration degree.
This degree program teaches students about public policy making. Lobbyists also
benefit from a public administration
degree.
Master of Science degree programs train future scientists. Students
in science programs conduct important research and aid in many scientific
breakthroughs. Graduate students at many universities are working on research to
fight diseases, learn more about the universe, and harness new kinds of
energy.
Master’s degrees in engineering programs give students the skills
that they need to make better computers, better computer software, better
chemicals, and better electrical products. Engineers take scientific theories
and apply them to products that can be used by people. Engineering programs also
offer part time evening programs for students who work during the
day.
Many Master’s degrees are earned in health related fields. Master’s
degree programs in nursing prepare nurses for more responsible nursing
positions. Pharmacists and social workers also gain the training that they need
in order to be successful by earning Master’s degrees in their fields. Masters
programs in public health and health administration prepare future managers of
hospitals and health care organizations.
There are many more Master’s degree programs that prepare students
for successful and exciting careers. Grants, fellowships, and scholarships are
available to some Master’s program students. Other students are able to get
financial aid through their employers or through student loans. Master’s degree
programs will continue to expand into more diverse areas of study as demand for
research and advanced knowledge grows.