Last Updated on December 20, 2022

It’s completely fine (and actually pretty common!) to feel a sense of disconnect from your undergraduate degree or current vocation, and decide to pursue a new or unrelated subject at postgraduate level. While unrelated master’s degrees can be obtained, the process is much easier for applicants with some relevant crossover from their undergraduate program (i.e., switching from one science discipline to a different science discipline).

Right here on Collegelearners, you can rest assured to obtain all the relevant information you need on does your masters degree have to be in the same field, can I do a masters in a different subject, amongst others. Take out time to surf through our catalog for more information on related topics.

Masters Degrees That Don’t Require Specific Bachelors

What is a Master’s Degree

A master’s degree is the first level of graduate study. To apply for a master degree you usually must already hold an undergraduate degree (a bachelor’s degree).

A master’s degree typically requires a year and one-half to two years of full-time study.

To earn a master’s degree you usually need to complete from 36 to 54 semester credits of study (or 60 to 90 quarter-credits). This equals 12 to 18 college courses. Most master’s degrees are awarded by public or state universities.
 

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Quick Facts About Master’s Degrees

Why earn a master’s degree? 

Many jobs require a master’s degree, and many that don’t require the degree will pay more if you have a master’s

How long does it take?

Full time: from 1.5 to 2.5 years
Part time: up to 5 or 6 years

How much does it cost? 

Master’s degree tuition rates vary greatly, from a low of about $8,000 to a high of close to $300,000 for the most expensive brick-and-mortar programs.  Most students take out loans to complete a master’s degree. Online programs tend to be more modestly priced but still vary.

Is it worth it? 

That depends on the salary differential in the field and the cost of your education. In the vast majority of fields, the salary differential makes degree cost a great investment. Here is a tool to check to see the averages in your choice of profession

What types of master’s degrees are there?

You name it. Almost all fields have at least a sub-specialty that offers a master’s degree program. Just to list a few areas: education, health sciences, engineering, social services, mathematics, business, management, veterinary science, biological/chemical/physical sciences, religion, computer science, arts and humanities. And more. 

How do I choose the right master’s degree program?

Consider cost, wage differential for the degree, your time, and your career goals. Make sure that your program is accredited and that it covers the specific curriculum that will help you attain your goals.

Can You Do A Masters In Anything

Why earn a master’s degree?

Considering whether or not to pursue a master’s degree can be complex. This article will give you an idea of all the factors you should consider before you enroll in a master’s degree program. The general trends are that more people are getting master’s degrees, more professions are requiring a master’s, and more programs are available online. Completed in about two years fulltime, or three to five years part time, a master’s degree does not take as much time as an undergraduate degree. The cost of a degree can vary widely, and depending on the salary premium in your field for the master’s, a degree can be a good investment in your future earnings. 

No matter your chosen profession, there are likely master’s degree programs to advance your career. But why would you need one? These days, it can be very beneficial to have a master’s degree so you can compete for jobs with higher salaries and more responsibility. While some professions make it mandatory to have a master’s degree, other professions may not require it. Even if your profession does not require a master’s degree, there may be a wage differential for workers that would make the degree worth the time, effort and money. 
 

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Trends in Master’s Degree Education

In case you haven’t noticed, there are more people getting master’s degrees these days. An increasing number of professions now require or encourage a master’s degree education for workers. It is undeniable that people with a master’s degree will earn more than those with less education, and over a number of years of employment, this wage differential will add up. The median weekly wage for those with a master’s degree is about 20% higher than for those with only a bachelor’s degree. If that is not enough to make you think about getting a master’s degree, consider this: the median wage for those with a master’s degree in 2017 was $68,090, while the 2017 median for all professions was just $37,690.

Another trend is that professions that used to employ people with just a bachelor’s degree are often now requiring those entering the profession to begin with a master’s degree. This is often called “degree inflation,” which though annoying, is a fact of life that we all have to live with at this point. Not only does this mean new workers need the degree, but often, workers already in the profession may need to get a master’s degree at some point just to keep their jobs. Occupational therapists now need a master’s degree to enter the field, as do nurse practitioners. Librarians and educational administrators now usually need a master’s degree. Statisticians and urban planners, drama and music teachers, physician assistants and substance abuse social workers—all need a master’s degree for entry into the field. 

Getting a master’s degree has many benefits for those looking for jobs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in jobs requiring a master’s degree will increase by 17% between 2016 and 2026, which is much faster than the average increase across all professions of 7%. Add that together with the fact that people with a master’s degree in a field where it is not strictly required also make more money and may have a leg up on job applicants with lower qualifications, and you have some very strong arguments for getting that degree. 

Mater’s programs are increasingly diverse, enrolling more students from underrepresented racial and ethnic backgrounds. There is also increasing diversity in the types of programs offered, with the number of distinct classifications of master’s programs rising from 289 in 1195 to 514 in 2017. The numbers of international students seeking graduate degrees is decreasing slightly, even while a larger percentage of programs are now offered fully or partly online. This can make graduate degrees available to students in all geographic areas and take away the hassle of moving to attend an on-campus program.

More available jobs, higher earnings, easier to access—what’s the rub? Studying takes time and money. When you consider that getting a master’s degree can take as little as one and a half years, and the increase in wages and job prospects can last your whole career, it could well be worth the investment you make. Deciding on whether or not to go for a master’s, each person needs to carefully assess their needs, their goals, their personal finances, and their particular strengths and weaknesses. 
 

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Most Popular Master’s Degree Majors

When choosing a master’s program, consider your professional career needs then target academic goals. Master’s degrees often focus on a single specialty area. For example, you may earn a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling or a Master of Science in Reading and Literacy. The ability to focus on one niche makes your graduate degree a good credential if you want to focus your career in a high-demand niche area. 

TIP: One of the most popular online master’s programs is the Master of Business Administration (MBA). Many managers today earn the MBA to qualify for competitive management positions in areas as diverse as technology management and healthcare records administration.

• Western Governors University MBA – Healthcare Management
• Capella University MBA – Finance
• Ohio University MBA – Executive Management

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How Long Does It Take to Get a Master’s Degree

Here’s the short answer—typical master’s degree programs require from one and a half to two years to complete.

There are usually 36-54 credits, or 60 to 90 quarter-credits, in most master’s degree programs. Length of program varies by degree subject and school. Many programs allow graduate students to attend part-time while retaining their jobs and family lives, and thus the degree could be spread out over five to six years. 

Some graduate school programs offer flexible coursework and schedules for working people who still want to pursue a master’s degree without quitting their job. Some fulltime programs are even designed with working professionals in mind, allowing for weekend and evening classes, though students will be expected to be very focused to complete a fulltime graduate program while continuing to work. Other programs may be more efficiently completed full time, either in a brick and mortar classroom on a traditional campus, or partly (hybrid online/on-campus) or fully online, with the recommendation that students not work fulltime during the program. Online master’s programs often offer the benefits of self-scheduling and accelerated course offerings.

The time to degree in each program is somewhat unique, as requirements and scheduling vaey. Studying fulltime gets the degree done quickly, while studying part time to accommodate family and current job obligations can take longer. In addition to coursework, online or in-person, many programs require hands-on work in the field. This supervised fieldwork may be able to be completed at a student’s jobsite, or require additional time working at another site, making regular employment more difficult to squeeze in. 

Tip: If time commitment and money are obstacles, then consider the post-graduate certificate. Post-graduate certificates provide focused specializations and may provide the necessary credentials to reach career goals. Graduate certificates typically require students to complete 3 or 4 courses, and may even be transferrable into a master’s program later.
 

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How Much Does a Master’s Degree Cost

Cost is often a make or break factor in choosing a master’s program. Before you put a halt to your education goals due to financial obstacles, exhaust all resource options, including employer tuition reimbursement, state grants, and institutional scholarships that pay partial tuition.T?he National Center for Education Statistics reports that the average cost for a master’s program tuition and fees is about $16,435 per the 2012-2013 school year (based on in-state residency). 

Online programs at state and public universities tend to charge one set rate for both in-state and out-of-state students so costs can be more affordable.

The best advice is to decide on a specific field of study, and then cost-compare.

• Compare tuitions of post-graduate online degree programs at different schools.
• Allow for added costs when deciding between an online and on-campus program, including housing, transportation, and potential childcare expenses. 
• Factor in potential financial aid opportunities, which may or may not be school or program-specific.

Tip: Tuition reimbursement may allow you to get a master’s degree for free. Because it’s in the best interest of a business to boost the collective skill sets of their employees, ask if your company offers tuition reimbursement. According to a Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), 56% of employers offered tuition assistance programs. Employers can reimburse up to $5,250 per year as a tax deduction, with the employee not owing taxes on that amount either, according to the IRS.  

The SHRM also reports that the most generous employers, concerning education reimbursement, tend to be in the technology and health care industries. These two industries also offer some of the most lucrative jobs and may be the best master’s degrees to get, in regards to pay and job security. 
 

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When is a Master’s Degree Worth It

A master’s degree is good choice when you…

• Already hold a bachelor’s degree
  Pursuing your master’s online is a best bet if you want to advance your career in a field where you already have previous professional experience and you hold an accredited bachelor’s degree. Certain organizations in fields like education, medicine, and engineering may even require their top level employees to have master’s degrees. 
   
• Know that your chosen career will require a master’s degree
  If your desired career requires a master’s level education in order to get an entry-level job, then you may not have another option. For example, if your goal is to become a physician’s assistant or high school principal, then you will most-likely need to earn a master’s degree. or
   
• Need a graduate degree to qualify for a higher salary grade
  If your potential salary will outpace the cost to get a degree and if the job prospects are promising, then the cost of a master’s degree is worth it. 
   

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the 2018 median weekly earnings of a full-time professional with a master’s was about $1,434, while for workers with a bachelor’s degree, the figure was $1,198; that’s about $12,300 more per year for workers with a master’s degree. TIP: You don’t have to hold a bachelor’s degree in the same major area you wish to study at the master’s level. Example: You may hold a bachelor’s degree in sociology but decide to earn a Master of Management. Most Master of Management programs will accept you with any type of accredited bachelor’s degree.
 A master’s degree is not worth it in some occupations, even if the degree may be available. If the degree is not required for your desired occupation, or if you can’t earn substantially more with the addition of the degree, it will most likely not be a good choice for you.  For example, the BLS finds that engineers specializing in petroleum, mining, and geology, along with chemical engineers, reported median wages that was actually 7 percent less than workers with bachelor degrees. Urban planners and actors with master’s degrees also failed to show significant earnings above that of workers with bachelor’s degrees.

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Which Type of Master’s Degree is Right for You

Popular careers that require a master’s include:

• Postsecondary educators
• Education administrators at all levels of education
• Social workers
• Librarians
• Counselors, such as marriage, family, rehabilitation, and mental health 
• Nurse practitioners and physician assistants
• Nurse midwives
• Healthcare positions, including occupational therapists and speech pathologists
• Statisticians and mathematicians
• Historians, including archivists and curators
• Art, drama, and music teachers
• Urban and regional planners
• Political scientists
• Economists
   

Popular careers where salaries are much higher with master’s degrees include:

• Business: financial, sales occupations, marketing and public relations specialists, accountants, auditors, general and operations managers, and real estate management professionals
• Education: administrators; teachers of preschool, elementary, secondary, special education, and other subjects
• Healthcare and social service workers: physician assistants, nurses, counselors, social workers, and health/social services managers
• STEM fields mathematicians, statisticians, computer system administrators, web developers, information security analysts, and biological, chemical, or environmental scientists.
• Librarians, editors, and designers
• Office and administrative supervisors
• Fitness and recreation professionals
• Aircraft pilots and flight engineers
   

Even in the same basic subject, the master’s degree may be called something slightly different. The main constant is that the word “master” will be in the title. Popular degrees titles are:

• Master of Arts (MA) 
• Master of Science (MS/MSc)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Education (MEd). 
   

Less common are more specialized degree titles such as: 

• Master of Social Work (MSW)
• Master of Public Health (MPH)
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
• Master of Library Science (MLS)
• Master of Engineering (MEng)
• Master of Music (MM)
• Master of Architecture (March)
• And so on
   

Many engineering fields may award an MS in a specific type of engineering, rather than the MEng degree. Similarly, there may be different degree options for other subjects like economics, which could be a specialty in an MBA program or an MS program. It really doesn’t matter which letters are in your degree title unless there is a specific requirement in the exact field you plan to go into. There are also what are called executive master’s degrees, which are designed for people who have working in the field for a number of years, and are therefore already very knowledgeable. These are often shorter programs, as credit is given for experience, and they are often flexible around a busy work schedule. 

• Saint Joseph’s College of MaineMaster’s of Accountancy
• The University of Alabama Master of Library and Information Studies
• Johns Hopkins University Master of Science in Bioinformatics

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Considering Your Personal Situation

Many jobs today require a master’s degree. For other professions, a master’s degree is a way to get ahead of the competition and prove that you have all the skills and knowledge to do the job—even if a master’s degree is not strictly required. For example, jobs in financial services don’t explicitly require a master’s degree, but those with a master’s degree earn an average of 89% wage premium over their colleagues who hold only a bachelor’s degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics—that is almost double the salary, and it is a high salary to begin with.  On the other hand, there are some professions that require a master’s degree, even though the salary may not be very high to begin with. Even though many jobs in education or social services do not pay huge salaries, quite a few require a master’s level education to attain the position. However, if these are fields that you feel drawn to work in, then the degree can be worth it for you to be happy in a profession that inspires you. For these careers, it can really pay long-term dividends to research costs of degrees and consider going into less debt so you will be under less financial stress as you begin your career. The nice thing about a master’s degree for many people is that they can pursue a master’s degree after working at a lower level in their field of interest for a while first. This allows the time to find out if this field is the right fit for your interests before investing in a graduate degree. Often, if you find that your first stab at a career wasn’t satisfying to you, you can switch to another field for a master’s degree, often by taking a few prerequisite courses to give you a foundation in the new subject. Thus, after working for a few years, you may find that you are more certain in your choice of field or sub-field, and it is easier to find the motivation to continue if you know what you want. Some college programs take students straight from a bachelor’s degree right into a master’s degree program, especially if the profession requires a master’s as the minimum qualification for the job. Other times, students have explored their options during undergraduate school and want to go straight on to a master’s degree to have the best qualifications for the career they want. Whether you are coming back to school to upgrade your credential in your profession, looking to change professions after working for a few years, of going straight from a bachelor’s degree into a master’s program, you have many options. 

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How to Choose a Master’s Degree Program

The final step is to consider the requirements of each master’s degree and narrow based on your personal needs and preferences. Ask yourself:

• Can I commit to a full-time program or do I want to attend part-time?
• Can I commit to a year-round program or would I prefer breaks between semesters?
• Do I have the self-motivation to enroll in an accelerated degree program?
• Do I prefer to progress through a program with peers or would I prefer an individual self-paced course?
• Can I complete a hybrid program with required on-campus components or would a completely online program be a better fit?
• What internships or practicums are required? 

Because graduate school involves more of an in-depth and theoretical look at its subjects, group discussion and debate are important. Today’s online discussion forums provide an inviting environment for students to engage their peers.

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Accreditation for Master’s Degrees

As with any college degree, make sure that the program to which you apply is accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting organization. The cheapest master’s degree may look good to your wallet, but not to your future. 
 It is important to enroll in a program that is offered by a nationally or regionally accrediting institution recognized by the US Department of Education (USDE). Some institutions may be accredited by both a regional and a national body, but the institution itself must be accredited to make sure that your degree and credits will be recognized widely.
 A second type is programmatic, or specialized accreditation. For each subject or degree, there is an agency that oversees the specific programs that grant degrees in the field. Both the USDE and the Council on Higher Education approve programmatic accreditation agencies. For instance, for a Master of Science in Health Informatics, the programmatic accrediting agency would be different than the one that approves master’s programs in engineering.
 The upshot is that you want your institution—the college or university—to be accredited and you want to make sure that the specific master’s degree program is accredited by the right specialized accrediting body for the career or profession of your degree. There are many further reasons to attend an accredited degree program, such as the wider availability of financial aid, a higher quality of education evaluated by a third party, ease of transferring credits, employer recognition of the degree, and the ability to sit for certification or licensure exams. 

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Applying to Graduate Degree Programs

Prior to filling out the application, look at the graduate school admission requirements for your school of choice. Graduate programs may require graduate-level standardized test scores. Graduate exams include the:

• Graduate Record Examination (GRE),
• Law School Admission Test (LSAT),
• Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT),
• Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). 

 Each one of these tests is on higher level subjects that assess the aptitude of the individuals taking them. It is also important to note that these tests have fees similar to the SAT or ACT.  Never let tests scores deter you from enrolling in an online master’s program. Standardized test scores are often just one part of the equation. Most schools factor in prior education successes, along with work and life experiences. 

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What to Expect in a Master’s Degree Curriculum

Each subject area and degree program will differ in the exact requirements. But for those who have a bachelor’s degree in a different subject from the master’s they want to pursue, expect to take some prerequisite courses either before you start the program or within the first couple of semesters to catch up to other students with a bachelor’s degree in the field. 
 Once your program starts, there will usually be foundation courses that will help orient you to the field, give you an overview, and lay the foundations of knowledge and skills to continue on with the degree. Most master’s degree programs do not have many general education type courses required outside the major, but some will require communications, writing, mathematics, or science courses that are integral to the major. For people who have been working in the field of study, they may be able to waive some of the foundation courses based on experience or testing. 
 In some master’s programs, you can follow a track or specialty by choosing particular courses in the latter part of the program. For instance, those who are pursuing an MBA degree may be able to choose to specialize in Business Analytics, Finance, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, Risk Management, or any number of other special areas of business. Many programs will also have a generalist track for those who do not a have a specialty in mind. Smaller programs often have fewer specialized tracks available, but some small programs might have a special track in a less common specialty, like Aerospace Engineering. Different programs for the same degree will offer different elective or specialty areas, so it pays to research your options to find a program with a strong focus on the area you are most interested in pursuing. 
 It’s also important to note that many graduate programs— specifically those in the medical, educational, and technological fields—also require practical experience, internships, and capstone projects as part of the graduation requirements. In addition to writing papers, taking part in class discussions, and listening to professors’ lectures, students are required to have actual professional experience. In some cases, this can be achieved simply by maintaining a current career and having a supervisor sign off on your “practical experience.” Other times, you may need to perform your practicum at an approved site that is separate from your paid work.

What is a Master’s Degree: Everything You Need to Know

Are you wondering if a Master’s degree is something you should pursue?

It may seem like everyone is asking that question these days. As industries quickly change with the rapid advance of technology and shifting regulations, many people look to an advanced degree to provide stability. In reality, there are many reasons to consider earning a Master’s degree.

Our program directors say the most common reasons current students cite include:

• Career Change: Looking to pursue a new career in a new-to-them field
• Personal Gain: Want to earn more money in their field
• Professional Development: Want to become better at their current job/field
• Academic Pursuit: Want to learn more deeply about a subject or a concept
• Resume Building: Need to learn new skills to enter into the job market
• Promotion Targeting: Need the degree to be eligible for a promotion
• Personal Fulfillment: Enjoy the satisfaction of developing your critical thinking skills and completing advanced courses

Why do people look to Master’s degree to help achieve these goals? What makes a Master’s Degree so special? How is earning one different than earning a Bachelor’s degree? Are earners really more prepared for their careers and lives than those without them?

Welcome to your crash-course in Master’s Programs 101.

What Is a Master’s Degree?

A Master’s Degree is a certification, awarded by an accredited university, recognizing that a person has mastered a well-established and generally-agreed set of knowledge within a specific area.

The Master’s Degree Composition

Earning a Master’s typically requires about 40 credit hours of coursework with a minimum grade of 3.0 (or a B). However, some programs enable students to earn their degrees in fewer credits without compromising the quality and integrity of the coursework.

Master’s-level coursework is generally structured into 4 groups, typically divided as follows:

• The General Courses (~10%): These courses offer the foundational underpinnings of knowledge and information.; they may be merely supportive of your major or tangentially connected to your main focus of study.
• The Major Core (~50%): Your chosen major will have multiple subjects that work together to build a powerful and relevant education for success in the working world. These are the courses that will help you hit the ground running for jobs in your chosen field.
• The Electives (~15%): To meet your total number of hours required for your Master’s degree, you may have some hours left to spend on “elective” coursework. This is classwork that you can choose from a list of electives available in your program. It is part of personalizing your degree and also building yourself into a well-rounded individual.
• The Capstone (~25%): In construction, a capstone is the final stone placed at the top of a building. Similarly, in education, a capstone course is the culmination of your all your Master’s work. It is typically a practical, real-world application of your knowledge. Before beginning your capstone work, you may have to create a proposal that is reviewed and approved by your professor.

Structurally speaking, that’s the basics of a Master’s Degree. But, it’s what’s within the components above that makes a Master’s Degree such a distinguished achievement.

5 Types of Master’s Degrees You Need to Know About

Choosing a degree can be a daunting decision, whether you are just starting out or looking for your next career boost. These 5 types of masters degrees should help ease your future academic decisions!

Why do people go to grad school? Some want to advance in their existing careers. Others are looking for a fresh start and a new career direction. Whatever the reason, choosing between different types of master’s degrees requires careful thought and consideration.

There are vast differences between undergraduate and graduate degrees to be considered when choosing a program. Typically, the classroom size in graduate programs are smaller than those in undergraduate programs. This enhances both specialized group discussions as well as overall attendance. The focus of graduate degrees, however, is often outside of the classroom. While undergraduate courses center around exams and class participation, graduate programs tend to focus more on developing research and communication skills and less on regularly scheduled lectures and exams.

When choosing your next career direction, consider these 5 types of master’s degrees:

1. MBA

Master of Business Administration degrees target those already somewhat advanced in their careers and looking for a professional boost. Still, some may choose to enter an MBA program before starting a career, which often leads to fields such as finance, economics, or management.

Some common benefits of completing an MBA program include:

Higher employment rates:

MBA graduates enjoy greater job security by learning a skill set marketable to employers in the long-term. In an annual poll of employers conducted in 2016, 96% of responding employers reported that hiring graduates from business programs adds value to the organization as a whole.

Increased earning potential:

Research shows that the average pay of an MBA graduate increased by 50% upon completing the master’s program. Earning a master of business degree will signal to employers a commitment to professionalism and, often, to successful management.

Degree specialization:

While MBA programs are often broad in the scope of their subject, specializations are often offered as well. Courses focused on a particular industry or concentration give students the opportunity to sample possible career paths before actually entering the workforce. Marketing, innovation, business analytics, or management, for example, are common specialties students can focus on while earning their graduate degree.

Expanded professional network:

Your peers in business school will introduce you to different industries, business practices, and cultures; and expanding your professional network might present you with unexpected opportunities later in your career.

2. Master of Arts

Typically between 2 and 4 years, the M.A. is one of the most accessible degrees for students. Master of Arts degrees often cover the field of social science, including sociology, political science, psychology, anthropology, and can be either research or academic-based degrees.

While business degrees and more specialized master degrees often present particular career pathways, Master of Arts degrees nurture a broad set of social and professional skills.

MA degrees are socially-centric, meaning that from a sociological or anthropological perspective, students consider complex theories and their long-term and short-term implications.

So, how can this theoretical knowledge improve your practical career prospects?

Employers want to know why your M.A. degree sets you apart from the other candidates. During your interview, be sure to mention the transferable skills you learned, courses relevant to the position or company, final projects, and group assignments. Emphasize your will to learn and improve, and how that motivation will translate into your next role.

3. Master of Science

M.Sc. degrees share a philosophical approach to M.A. degrees, although they are typically more technical in their career orientation. A computer science degree, as an example, presents specialized knowledge related to technology and can increase your access to career opportunities and salary prospects.

For those already working in the technology sector, an M.Sc. can expand your specialized skills, for example, in the areas of artificial intelligence, network security, or software.

Among those newer in their careers, an M.Sc. provides a foundation for research and development, introducing students to various technology industries.

4. Master of Education

Many current and aspiring teachers pursue a Master of Education for various reasons. Most commonly, the goals of graduate education students include obtaining official certifications, making a career change, establishing a specialty, and enhancing earning potential.

Advanced teaching degrees often attract those with a love for learning and the desire to influence and affect change. To increase the amount of highly skilled teachers around the world, University of the People and the International Baccalaureate have launched a tuition-free online Master of Education program.

Designed to train students for dynamic careers in education, UoPeople’s Master of Education uses a multi-disciplinary approach, including human development, teaching and learning theory, behavior management, and assessment of learning.

The program offers two specializations: Elementary/Middle School Education and Secondary Education. The academic year is split into five (5) nine-week terms, and can be completed either full-time or part-time. In certain cases, students may be permitted to use an accelerated track.

Our M.Ed. program aims to develop highly developed teaching skills, equipping each student with the ability to set classroom learning goals and objectives, identify instructional needs of individual learners, create and maintain an effective learning environment, employ instructional approaches and activities, and engage in continuing professional development.

5. Alternative Degrees

While graduate school provides a wide range of economic rewards and career opportunities, there are many non-financial benefits as well. Going back to school can renew your energy to learn, it offers the opportunity to finally make a career change, and it expands cognitive development.

For those who have been thinking of going back to school and are having trouble choosing a master’s degree, the following programs may be of interest:

Master of Public Administration

Similar to a public policy degree, an MPA focuses on the public sector, with specialties in areas such as international administration, science and technology, and the environment.

Master of Social Work

The MSW degree prepares students for careers in political advocacy and community organizing, focusing on improving the quality of life among both individuals and communities.

Master of Laws

Many law graduates pursue a Master of Laws, or LLM, degree to narrow down their interests or to switch specialties. If you have already completed an academic degree but feel that you did not get the specialty right the first time, the LLM might be the right next step in your career!

Make sure to select a graduate degree that connects with your existing professional achievements and sets you up for a successful career going forward. Remember that whether you have just completed your undergraduate degree or have already advanced in your career, the decision should not be made lightly.

Ask yourself the question: Why do I want to earn a Master’s degree? Consider the length of the degree and its financial investment. Though it can seem daunting, the decision can be made easier with proper research of various programs available to you. Check the program’s requirements for admission, assess your own strengths and weaknesses, and practically assess your own qualifications against each of the programs.

Many universities will provide students with academic counseling, providing support and guidance throughout the academic journey. Each student who enters an academic program with University of the People will be connected with a Program Advisor who will remain a source of support until graduation.

Why study for a Master’s Degree

Asking yourself this question can help you to formulate your personal statement, a common requirement for most master’s degree applications. The personal statement is a chance for students to explain their reasons for choosing their course, why they want to pursue a master’s degree, and mention any relevant skills, study and/or work experience they already have.

Below are some of the common reasons why students choose to study a master’s degree:

1. Subject interest. You gained a passionate interest in your chosen field of study during your bachelor’s degree (or during independent study outside of formal education) and want to further your knowledge in the subject, and/or specialize in a particular area. You may want to pursue in-depth research about the subject, become an academic of the subject or teach it to others. You may also be preparing for PhD-level research.
    
2. Career development. You need a master’s degree in order to acquire further knowledge, qualifications or skills in order to pursue a particular career, advance in your present career or even change careers altogether. Make sure to check with professional bodies or employers to ensure your chosen course is properly recognized or accredited before applying. Lawyers, doctors, teachers, librarians and physicists may all require postgraduate qualifications.
    
3. Employability. You believe an extra qualification can help you stand out from first-degree graduates and impress employers. A master’s degree can indeed increase your knowledge, personal and professional skills and perhaps even boost your confidence, and consequently your employability. A master’s degree qualification can also assist you in securing funding for PhD study.
    
4. Love of academia. You wish to stay in university as long as possible, either because you love university life or are unable to make a decision about your future and want to explore more about your chosen subject before entering the working world. You may stay in academia professionally if you wish, by contributing to research in a university department. If that’s your goal, it may help to start exploring possible job options during your studies so you’re better prepared for life after graduation.
    
5. Change of direction. You wish to change subjects from your undergraduate degree, effectively treating your master’s degree program as a ‘conversion course’ so you can explore a different subject, sector or industry in more detail.
    
6. Professional specialization/networking. You wish to gain a clearer insight into your own industry, or into an industry you wish to enter, and to create invaluable contacts within the industry. Many master’s degree programs offer the chance to network regularly with key industry players and offers work experience opportunities.
    
7. Academic challenge. You have the necessary motivation, determination and tenacity to take on the challenge of intense, continued study concerning a higher level of knowledge. Indeed, there is a steep learning curve between a first-degree (such as an associate’s or bachelor’s degree) and a master’s degree. A master’s degree involves an increased workload, a considerably more complex and sophisticated level of work, broader and more independently sourced research, a closer relationship with your course tutor and high professionalism, and excellent time management. And, unlike first degree students, master’s degree candidates should have a specific grasp of their own academic interests and a clearly targeted passion for their subject before they apply.
    
8. Flexibility of study mode. You appreciate the flexibility of study provided by master’s courses which are often available in many teaching modes.
    
9. Industry requirement. Your chosen professional field puts immense value on master’s degrees. The value of a master’s degree varies by field. While some fields require a master’s degree without exception, others do not require advanced degrees for advancement or employment, while in some cases a master’s degree career progression comparable to a doctoral degree (for example, in social work, the pay differential between doctoral degree graduates and master’s degree graduates is fairly slim).

Other Postgraduate Courses

Master’s degrees are not the only options for continuing your studies. Just as there are many reasons for choosing a master’s degree, there can also be many reasons for seeking alternative postgraduate courses; whether you are looking for a minimum investment of time and money, have very specific interest in a small number of course modules or would simply prefer not to commit to a full master’s degree.

A postgraduate certificate (PGCert) or a postgraduate diploma (PGDip) both have the same taught module requirements as an equivalent master’s qualification, but omit the research project or require students to take fewer modules. Most PGCert and PGDip programs are available in flexible learning modes, including full-time and part-time learning.

If, having graduated from a master’s degree, you decide to continue your studies even further, there are several choices. A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD, DPhil) is traditionally the highest student qualification. However, the specific academic level achieved by a PhD student can vary according to the country, institution and even time period. Unlike most master’s courses, PhD programs contain little or no taught elements and are based primarily on the student’s ability to carry out original research in a specialist subject of their choosing.

A Professional Doctorate is considered equivalent to a PhD but geared less towards training in academic research and more towards allowing experienced professionals to carry out research relating to their current professional field. The Professional Doctorate often contains a larger taught element. While postgraduate courses such as the Engineering Doctorate (EngD) are only offered full-time and are aimed at recent graduates, most Professional Doctorates are studied part-time. Professional Doctorate courses include Education (EdD), Clinical Psychology (DClinPsy), Business (DBA), Medicine (MD), Nursing & Healthcare (PrDHealth), Social Science (DSocSci) and Social Work (DSW).

For both PhDs and Professional Doctorates, research is presented as a thesis and examined by an expert in the chosen field. The taught element in Professional Doctorates is also formally assessed. Graduates with a PhD or Professional Doctorate are automatically awarded the academic title of ‘doctor’.

5 Ways Earning a Master’s is Different from Earning a Bachelor’s Degree

The graduate level is all about applied knowledge.

That means that programs are experience based, and not theoretical. Where a Bachelor’s regimen is typically structured around demonstrating knowledge, the Master’s program is structured around applying philosophies, principles, and guidance to real-world scenarios.

As such, a Master’s and Bachelor’s are distinct in several ways. If you’re considering earning a Master’s degree, you should be prepared for the following:

• Different Type of Thinking. In a Master’s program, students are expected to do far more than just read, memorize, and provide proof of their knowledge. They must be ready to theorize, advance, and create. The knowledge, memorization, and understanding gained in a Bachelor’s degree becomes the foundation for the critical thinking required for a Master’s.
• More Emphasis on Writing. As you move from a Bachelor’s level of work and into Master’s studies, you’ll need to adjust your writing style. You’re expected to be more thorough than just consulting one textbook for information. Get used to seeking out multiple references in your writing. Consider information sources that come at the same topic from different perspectives. Be thoughtful and creative as you triangulate many pieces of information into a cohesive, thought-provoking insight.
• A Capstone Process. As mentioned earlier, to wrap up all of your Master’s work, your program will likely require a capstone project. This is generally not a part of a Bachelor’s program. The capstone can be a challenging process, and cannot be taken lightly.
• Collaborative Community. In a Master’s program, one of the first things many students notice is the difference in peer relationships and mentoring. Graduate work typically requires you to work with the people around you. This high level of collaboration gives you an opportunity to seek out a mentor. It might be a peer, a faculty member, or a person who is already in the career you’re pursuing. You’ll find that mentoring is common at the Master’s level of coursework.
• The Need for a Support System. The truth is, you share a powerful bond with your classmates. You’re all working toward a common goal, but each person has a unique set of strengths that can be shared along the way. You give; you get. And everyone wins.

What Determines the Quality of the Master’s Degree

In this age of online diploma mills, students should be careful in selecting a reputable program that provides a legitimate degree. As you choose the right school for your Master’s training, ask about the goal of their program and then ask how the school brings that goal to life. What you see below are the pieces that add up to a high-quality Master’s program; the details within these elements are what makes one degree a better choice than another.

• Curriculum Design. Coursework should deeply reflect current events in the industry. It should address what it takes for a 21st-century career. A school should be able to talk with you in depth about trends in employment, because their coursework already addresses those trends. Ask your program how their curriculum is designed, and how frequently its evaluated.
• Advisory Boards. A good school will have advisory boards staffed with current professionals and senior managers. Those advisory boards are constantly asking, “What are today’s employers looking for?” Good advisors ensure the school is only offering degrees that are actually in demand. Be sure to ask your program who sits on the advisory board for the degree you’re seeking.
• Internal Program Review. In each academic area, the program chair regularly undertakes a comprehensive review of the program. There are many elements to be reviewed and updated, for example:
  • Review student assessments to see if there are gaps in instruction, learning, or content
  • Check with employers to see the education is relevant, competitive, and helpful to their organizations. It’s not just about meeting students’ information needs; a Master’s degree-granting school must also focus deeply on employers’ needs in the workplace
  • Assess the courses themselves to look at the content and quality of the instruction Be sure to ask your program how thoroughly it reviews its programs, and ask for specific changes that have been made as part of that process.
• Accreditation. The U.S. Department of Education governs whether a school earns accreditation. With regular, rigorous reviews, they make sure an institution has the faculty and resources necessary to offer a high-quality academic program. Ask if your program is accredited.
• Program Reputation. Sometimes, you learn a lot about a Master’s degree program merely by listening to what others are saying. What do professional organizations say? (For example, what does the Society for Human Resource Management, or SHRM, say about a school’s MBA program?) Consider what training a professional organization deems to be important, and see if your school is addressing those needs. Check online for reviews of the school and ask your employer if they’ve heard of the program.

Is a Master’s Degree Really Worth the Investment

Remember those reasons cited above for earning a degree? Research proves the degree does in fact help students realize those goals.

Is a Master’s Degree Right for You

That’s a question only you can answer.

But, as we’ve seen, there are several advantages (on both a personal and professional level) to making the necessary investments to earn the degree.

According to Joel Gardner, Franklin University’s Department Chair and Instructional Design Faculty Member:

“For many people I’ve taught, a Master’s is a way to develop and grow in ways you couldn’t achieve without the program. It’s a transformation. Think about that. Here’s a program that helps you change who you are fundamentally. In 1 or 2 years, you get a chance to alter how you look at the world, how you think, and how you can contribute to your career. That’s pretty amazing.”

In any case, it’s commonly known that going back to school for a Master’s degree isn’t just a walk in the park. Before you start that journey, it’s a good idea to understand the landscape and prepare for what’s ahead. The truth is that the challenge of earning a Master’s degree can be an extremely worthwhile investment—if you remain committed to the program and your reasons for earning the degree.

Have you been wondering lately, why get a Master’s degree? What are the benefits? Is it really worth it? There’s plenty of good reasons to get a master’s degree. Obtaining a master’s could open up a whole new world of career opportunities for you, plus a whole lot more benefits that can make your life better. Here’s some reasons why going to graduate school could be a great choice for you.

Opens More Doors for Employment

For many careers, a master’s degree is a minimum requirement for employment. In fact, research shows that 18 percent of all jobs will require a master’s degree by 2022.

These tend to be high paying jobs, such as occupational therapists, economists, and nurse anesthetists. Business Insider has outlined the highest paying jobs that require a master’s degree. The median salary for these jobs is $80,000 — with the highest paying career, nurse anesthetists, enjoy an average yearly salary of $157,140. Not too shabby!

Of course, you don’t have to go get a master’s of science in nursing if that’s not your area of interest. No matter what field of study you’re interested in pursuing, it has the potential to open lots of doors for you that otherwise remain shut unless you commit to getting a master’s degree. If you’re looking to really level up your career prospects, so you can better provide for your family or get ahead in the job market, going to graduate school should be one of the top choices on your list.

Open to Everyone

You might be thinking: I can’t get a master’s degree, I don’t have the time or money for that!

Don’t let these limiting beliefs hold you back from getting an education, because they are not true. No matter what your situation is, anyone willing to put in the work can successfully go to graduate school.

If the high cost of a master’s degree is holding you back, consider applying to University of the People — especially if you’re considering an MBA or a Master of Education. University of the People believes everyone in the world has the right to an education, and that’s why our programs are tuition-free and completed online.

You can now complete your master’s online, in your own time, without the crazy high costs of normal universities. So even if you have a full-time job, a family to take care of, or just don’t feel you have the funds, know that there are always options out there for you to get a master’s. All you need is the drive and commitment.

Enjoy More Job Security

Research has shown that those holding a master’s degree have a lower unemployment rate in comparison to those with less education. Only 2.2% of people holding master’s degrees in the US were unemployed during 2017.

Having a master’s also greatly increases your chances of getting that promotion you’ve been hoping for. Employers are much more likely to hire and promote employees that are highly educated in their field. Going for your master’s could be the catalyst that accelerates your career.

Increased Earning Potential

On average, those with a master’s earn 35% more than those with just a bachelor’s.

This increase in earning is even higher for specific fields. According to Georgetown’s Center on Education and the Workforce, those with master’s degrees in biology and life sciences have been found to earn 63% more than those with only their bachelor’s degree. An even more mind-blowing statistic is that graduate degree holders that majored in health and medical preparatory programs earn 137% more than bachelor’s degree holders! Who wouldn’t like to get a raise like that?

Expand your Professional Network

Networking, if done properly, can end up being the most important part of getting your master’s. You have access to a plethora of brilliant professors that can provide you with tons of connections in your specific field of study. You’ll also meet plenty of students to collaborate with that are interested in the same topics as you. Lots of people end up finding jobs through professors and fellow graduate students once they’ve obtained their degree.

Change Your Career

Your master’s doesn’t have to be related to your bachelor’s degree. If you’re unhappy with your current job, getting a master’s in something different can allow you to change your career entirely.

This is invaluable if you’re feeling stuck and wondering how you can make a career change. You don’t have to be chained to your current career forever! Going back to school to get your master’s in something new will open your life up to more fulfilling career options.

This is a common occurrence, too. Plenty of people rush into getting their bachelor’s degrees at a young age before they know what they want to do. You are certainly not the first.

Your Job Might Pay For It

Some places of work have programs that pay for their employees to gain higher education in their field.

Lots of American companies including Verizon, AT&T, Disney, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Best Buy, Walmart, and Chipotle have employee benefits packages that include reimbursements for part or all of your tuition costs.

If you’re outside of the US and not sure whether your company provides this, ask your boss to find out — and if they don’t, there’s no harm in asking if you can be the first.

Learn More About What You Love

It’s important that you enjoy what you do. Keep this in mind when choosing a master’s — you don’t want to waste time, money, and effort in something you aren’t interested in, just because it might give you a big paycheck.

“If you don’t have the interest in the content of the program, you might benefit initially, but long term you’ll fail,” says Norm Meshriy, a master career counselor and owner of Career Insights.

But if something is your passion, that’s a perfectly great reason to pursue becoming a master in it. Graduate courses can be more interesting than undergrad courses because they delve deeper into topics instead of just providing a brief overview. Going for your master’s in something you are truly interested in can end up being thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding.

Don’t forget that getting a master’s degree is hard work — but if you truly love what you’re studying, that hard work will end up being inspiring and exciting. And once you’ve got that degree, you can finally get paid to do what you love every single day.

12 Things You Might Not Know About Masters Study

It’s easy for postgraduate study to seem complicated. You’re dealing with new degree types, different funding options and rather a lot of courses. Plus, it doesn’t really help that they’re called ‘Masters degrees’, right? That’s not a label that says ‘this way for simple, easily understood qualifications!’.

The thing is though, postgraduate study isn’t that complicated. It’s just a bit different.

So, what about those differences then? We’ve already busted the myths – the things you probably think you ‘know’ about postgraduate study, but probably shouldn’t. But what about the things you might not know about Masters degrees, but probably should?

1. UK students can get a loan for a Masters degree

In fact, there are actually four different postgraduate loan systems. The one you’re eligible for depends on where you’re from, but the important things is: you probably do have access to a student loan for your Masters degree, if you want one.

2. EU students can too

Worried about the effect of Brexit on your postgraduate study plans? You don’t need to be yet.

Guarantees mean that EU students have access to all four of the UK’s Masters loan systems and will pay the same fees as UK students for courses beginning in 2018-19.

3. And, if you live and study in Wales you can probably get a little extra funding

This one is a little bit more niche, but it’s definitely worth knowing about if you’re a Welsh-resident student looking to study a Masters degree at a Welsh university in 2018-19.

On top of your postgraduate loan you’ll also be eligible for some additional support (up to £3,400 or more). What you’ll get and how you get it depends on your university, with some offering fee discounts and others providing student bursaries.

4. You don’t need a first

There’s a myth that Masters degrees are only for workaholic geniuses. This isn’t true. You can go on to postgraduate study with a 2.1 (or lower) and plenty of people do.

5. You don’t need to do it straight away

There’s another myth that Masters degrees are only for workaholic geniuses in their very early twenties. This isn’t true either.

By all means consider a Masters if you’re near the end of an undergraduate degree and want to take the next step. But don’t feel there’s anything wrong with taking a break from university, working for a bit and then heading back to postgraduate study.

The same goes if you’re already in work and want to freshen up your skills or retrain for a different profession.

6. You can study what you want

Honestly? You pretty much can. And that’s the point.

A Masters doesn’t have to mean another year of Physics, Computer Science or History. It could mean the chance to spend a year on Quantum Mechanics, Artificial Intelligence or Heritage Studies. Or whatever else interests you.

Chances are good that you’ll find a specialised course that interests you. If you don’t, well, that’s your dissertation topic sorted.

7. And it doesn’t actually have to be a Masters

Masters degrees tend to steal the spotlight when it comes to postgraduate study (maybe it’s that name again) but they aren’t the only option available and they may not be the best option for you.

Many subjects (and programmes) also offer short postgraduate certificate or diploma options. These courses are at the same level as a Masters (in fact, many of them include modules from a related Masters) but require less credits and usually miss out the dissertation. Perfect if you’re looking for a quicker (and potentially cheaper) route to additional training. Or really don’t like big independent research projects.

8. You can skip the classroom (almost) altogether

So, what if you really do like big independent research projects, but are less keen on committing to two terms of taught classes in order to get to a dissertation?

Well, you could just go straight to the dissertation.

Research Masters like the cunningly named Master of Research (MRes) and less cunningly named Master of Philosophy (MPhil) focus on independent project work. They’re a bit like a shorter PhD (and are perfect if you’re looking to progress to doctoral work).

9. A Masters can work out cheaper than a Bachelors

This seems counter-intuitive – after all, a Masters is a ‘better’ degree and it should cost more, right? Well, not necessarily.

Firstly, there’s no standard fee for Masters degrees. Different universities charge different amounts for different courses in different subjects. Sometimes these are lower than the standard £9,250 per year you’ll currently pay for a Bachelors degree.

Secondly, a Masters is shorter than a Bachelors. This means that the total cost of your degree might actually be lower, even if your fees are higher than they would be at undergraduate level.

It’s not quite as simple as that though. . .

10. But that cost varies – a lot

The average cost of a Masters is. . . actually a pretty meaningless statistic.

It’s possible to provide figures for different types of course (and we do) but a) the differences between those figures are very substantial and b) none of them are guaranteed to reflect what you’ll actually pay for a given degree at a given university.

On the plus side, this means you can potentially ‘shop around’ and find a cheaper course in the same (or a similar) subject area. Just bear in mind that cheaper doesn’t necessarily mean better. Or worse. Choosing a Masters is a little more complicated than that, but there are resources to help you.

11. Though you might be able to study for free (sort of)

There are some countries where Masters fees vary a lot less than in the UK. Because there aren’t any.

This is true for several destinations in Europe, including Austria, Germany and Sweden. other countries such as France and the Netherlands are a lot cheaper than the UK.

But, before you start packing your suitcase, it’s not quite as simple as that. Free tuition doesn’t necessarily mean completely free study: you’ll still need to cover living costs and potentially pay application and admin fees.

12. You’ll love the dissertation

Three months or so working on a substantial independent project, resulting in the longest essay you’ve ever written with a third of the credits for your degree riding on the result?

Honestly, your dissertation will be a lot more fun than we’ve just made it sound.

It’ll be hard, it’ll challenge you and you’ll probably spend at least one afternoon convinced it’s all going wrong. But it won’t. Instead, you’ll realise just how much you’ve learned during your Masters, produce a piece of work you’re incredibly proud of and have some pretty neat experiences along the way.

And, if you’re totally convinced the dissertation isn’t for you, remember that you can always pick a course without one.

5 Things You Should Know Before Applying For A Master’s Degree

In the second of a two-part series, learn about 5 things you should consider before deciding which type of master’s program (thesis or non-thesis) is for you

If you are considering applying for a master’s degree, you have probably come across the two main types of master’s degrees offered at most European, Canadian and American universities – thesis (research-based) and non-thesis (taught, professional, or coursework-based) master’s degrees.

Even if you have picked which type of master’s degree you prefer to apply for (or if the university you are applying to has only one type of master’s program), you may still have many questions about how to apply, the skills you need to apply for each, and what it means for your future career. We caught up with Dr. Josephine Nalbantoglu, Dean of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies at McGill University, who helped to clarify some questions and misconceptions around applying for a thesis vs non-thesis master’s degree. 

Here are 5 things you should consider before deciding which type of master’s degree you should pursue.  

1. Every university and department is different and can have different models of the thesis and non-thesis programs, so make sure you do your research and apply to the program that is the best fit for you.  
The application requirements differ from one university to another, but also from one department to another within the same university. If you want to make sure you choose the path that fits your interests, we recommend you start doing your research well in advance by visiting the university websites, contacting admission offices, or asking your professors for advice.  

2. If you are applying for a thesis master’s degree, you don’t need to have research experience. 
Although having experience conducting research is preferable, it is not a prerequisite to enrolling in and succeeding in a thesis-based master’s degree. What matters most is your interest in the field you are applying for as you will be focusing on a specific topic in depth as part of our research. Make sure you really enjoy reading and writing as well because you will be doing that extensively.  

3. For  both types of master’s programs, you don’t need to have a clear plan of what you want to research or focus your coursework on. 
What is important is to know what you are passionate about and to be motivated to study this subject more deeply. It is the role of your supervisor and/or advisor to help you choose a suitable topic to study, based on your interests and skills.   

4. You can still pursue a PhD after doing a non-thesis master’s degree.
Contrary to popular belief, the thesis master’s degree is not the only path to doctoral studies and the world of academia. Although there are a few exceptions, you can enrol in many PhD programs after completing a non-thesis master’s degree. But before you start applying, make sure you check the requirements of the specific universities you are interested in.  

5. Employers value both research and taught master’s degrees, but depending on the job and career you wish to pursue in the future, you will need to decide which one is a better fit for you.  
Although both types of master’s degrees demonstrate your seriousness and your commitment to your field of specialization to a potential employer, they serve different purposes and will teach you different skills. If you wish to pursue an academic career or one in research and development, a thesis master’s is probably the best option for you. If you are seeking to master different aspects of your field to help you prepare for a career in industry, you might want to consider a non-thesis master’s degree.  

While you are not expected to have a clear career plan in mind at this stage, knowing where you want to be in the future and what your interests are will help you make the right decisions.