To complete a master’s program, students must usually spend an additional two years in school. Students usually complete a Master’s of Science or Art degrees at American universities. The United States’ Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLA) has reported that people with master's degrees usually make $1,000 dollars or more weekly, and $200 more per week than workers who have completed bachelor's programs.
Master's degree programs, like PhD programs, are classified as graduate programs. Those who complete master's programs can improve their job and promotion opportunities. Since so few people acquire master’s degrees, about three percent of people in the United States, it is viewed favorably by many organizations.
Graduate programs are usually more rigorous and challenging than undergraduate programs. Therefore, students considering a master’s program should be prepared to work hard. Aside from learning new skills, students enrolled in master’s programs develop relationships with professional contacts. This is very useful after graduation when it is time to find a job.
Students in master's programs enroll in classes, conduct research and prepare a thesis, while some are required to complete internship programs.
Although many master’s degrees will enable graduates to begin their careers upon graduation, some programs may not position graduates for jobs right out of school. For example, a person with an MBA will probably find a job after graduating, but a person graduating with an M.A. in sociology desiring to teach will more than likely be required to complete more schooling and training before qualifying for a teaching job.
Degrees that qualify students for jobs after completing their master’s programs are known as terminal degrees.
Some master’s programs only take up to 30 credit hours to complete, but certain programs may require students to complete 60 credit hours. For example, a Master’s of Social Work (MSW) program usually takes 60 credit hours to complete, which if pursued full time, usually takes two years.
About 30 percent of people pursuing master’s degrees are enrolled in non-education programs. The remainder of master’s students are enrolled in the following types of programs:
- Business (MBA; M.S. in Business)
Nearly 20 percent of master’s students are enrolled in MBA programs. More students are enrolled in these programs than any other master’s program. Students can opt to study general studies or develop expertise in a certain field, such as e-commerce or international finance.
Individuals with research interests or wanting to eventually obtain a PhD should consider enrolling in an M.S. business program.
- Education (MEd; MAT; MSEd)
Nearly 30 percent of individuals enrolled in master’s programs study education related subjects. Those enrolled in a Master’s of Education program usually take a variety of education courses. However, students can specialize in these programs. An online program is ideal for students specializing in e-learning.
Students completing a Master’s of Art in Teaching (MAT) program will be ready to teach students at various education levels. Students in these programs also acquire real life experience while enrolled in these programs.
Those interested in working in education administration should consider enrolling in a MSEd program. This is an ideal option for teachers with a desire to move to an administration position.
- Other Master's Degrees (MSW; MLS; MPH)
The other 25 percent of students enrolled in master’s degree programs study library science (MLS), social work (MSW), nursing, or public health (MPH).
Online Graduate School: Some Advantages
Online master’s degree programs are ideal options for students studying technology related subjects. A few examples could include MBAs with special emphasis placed on technology, e-business, training, and many other technology related degrees.
Online programs are very convenient for working professionals, and students can study at their own pace without having to wait until a new semester begins to start new classes.
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