A master’s degree can enhance your expertise and open doors to higher-paying positions. As a graduate student, you’ll collaborate with field experts to delve into advanced topics.
Typically, a master’s degree takes two years to complete, but some universities offer accelerated programs that can be finished in just one year. You can also choose a combined bachelor’s-to-master’s program to earn both degrees in a shorter timeframe.
Most master’s programs require at least 30 credits, though admission and graduation criteria differ by program. For instance, many arts and sciences master’s programs require GRE scores, while business programs often require GMAT scores.
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What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree?
A master’s degree can qualify you for management positions and specialized roles in fields such as healthcare, research, and social services. Some of the highest-paying master’s degrees include MBAs and nurse practitioner degrees.
Explore the earning potential and demand for popular master’s degree careers in the sections below.
Popular Master’s Degree Jobs Overseas
| Job Title | Median Annual Salary | Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Physician Assistant | $130,020 | 27% |
| Nurse Practitioner | $126,260 | 38% |
| Political Scientist | $132,350 | 7% |
| Industrial-Organizational Psychologist | $147,420 | 6% |
| Statistician | $104,110 | 30% |
Types of Master’s Degrees
Below are some of the most common types of master’s degrees you can pursue:
- Master of Arts (MA)
- Master of Science (MS)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Education (M.Ed.)
- Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
- Master of Laws (LL.M.)
- Master of Public Administration (MPA)
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Master of Public Policy (MPP)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
The MA and MS are among the most popular master’s degrees, typically awarded in fields like the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Other popular options include the MBA and M.Ed.