What it is
A master's degree is a graduate degree earned after a bachelor's — typically one to three years — that lets students deepen expertise, specialize, change fields, or qualify for advanced roles and licensure.
The degrees & designations
Master's degrees split into broad academic types (MA, MS) that span fields, and professional master's tied to a specific area. Click a type to jump to its majors:
How long it takes
Usually one to two years full-time (some run to three); many are available part-time or online for working professionals.
What you study
Master's programs feature advanced coursework in a focused field, often capped by a thesis, capstone project, comprehensive exam, or supervised practicum. Programs commonly run 30–60 credits.
Getting in
Requires a bachelor's degree, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose; some programs require GRE/GMAT scores (increasingly optional) or relevant experience.
Cost & funding
Costs vary widely. Research-oriented master's may offer assistantships or funding; professional master's (MBA, MPH, etc.) are more often self-funded, with loans and employer support common.
Where it leads
A master's supports career advancement, specialization, career change, and licensure in many fields, and can be a step toward a doctorate.
How it compares
A master's sits above the bachelor's and below the doctorate. Academic master's (MA/MS) lean toward research and further study; professional master's (MBA, MSW, MPH) prepare for practice.
Is it right for you?
A master's suits people who want to specialize, advance, pivot careers, or meet a licensure/credential requirement beyond the bachelor's.
Explore further
This is a reference guide. Keep exploring the education resource:
Key facts
- LevelGraduate (post-bachelor's)
- Length1–3 years (often 1–2)
- TypesAcademic (MA, MS) and professional (MBA, MSW, MPH, and more)
- EntryBachelor's degree
- PurposeSpecialize, advance, pivot, or meet licensure
Where to learn more
Keep exploring the K12 Academics education resource library: