You are here:

Master's Degrees

Master degrees are post-graduate degrees that require between one and three years of advanced study in specialized subject-matter knowledge. The Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MS) and Master of Science in Law are the most-common degree designations. Candidates may pursue a master degree to further their understanding of their original degree field, to change the focus of their general field, or to become a specialist. They may also desire a master degree to advance in their profession, attain promotions, or move into management.

Master degree programs are unlike undergraduate programs where general and broad studies are required. During the master degree program, students take only classes in their field, perform detailed research, and--in some cases--prepare a scholarly thesis reflecting their research results. Entry into a master degree program may require a satisfactory score on an admissions test, the completion of an undergraduate degree, and/or pertinent work experience. Many students choose to enter a PhD program, earning a master degree along the way.

The two most-common master degree specializations are in education and business. Would-be teachers holding a bachelor degree in their field can complete a master degree in education to become classroom certified. The fields are wide and extensive. One can earn an master degree in accounting, aviation, anthropology, finance, fine arts, biology, business, computer science, criminal justice, counseling and social work, engineering, earth studies, English, mathematics, history, human resources, public administration, nursing, information technology, health care administration, communications, design, marketing, hospitality and travel, telecommunications, eCommerce, medical technology, physical therapy, advertising, theology, music, physics, sociology, and more.



Top Master's Schools

      
  • University of Phoenix

    At University of Phoenix, we believe everyone deserves access to higher education.

    Programs

    • M.A. in Education/Administration and Supervision
    • M.A. in Education/Early Childhood Ed.
    • M.A. in Education/Elementary Teacher Education
    • More...

    Location: Online

    University of Phoenix
    Request Info »
  • USC School of Social Work

    The USC School of Social Work’s MSW@USC offers the opportunity to earn a Master of Social Work degree through the Virtual Academic Center without relocating to Southern California.

    Programs

    • Master of Social Work

    Location: Online

    USC School of Social Work
    Request Info »
  • Everest University Online

    Manage your career and your life while earning your degree online.

    Programs

    • Criminal Justice (Master's)
    • Business Administration (Master's)
    Location:
    Santa Ana: , Santa Ana CA
    Everest University Online
    Request Info »
  • Capella University

    Achieve your potential with an online degree from Capella University.

    Programs

    • MS - Business Analysis
    • MS - Social and Community Services
    • MS - Public Safety Leadership
    • More...
    Location:
    Minneapolis: Capella Tower, Minneapolis MN 55402
    Capella University
    Request Info »
  • Kaplan University

    Advance your career with an online degree from Kaplan University.

    Programs

    • MS in Higher Education - Educational Assessment and Evaluation
    • MS in Psychology - Addictions
    • MS in Psychology - Applied Behavioral Analysis
    • More...
    Location:
    Fort Lauderdale: 6301 Kaplan University Avenue, Fort Lauderdale FL 33309
    Kaplan University
    Request Info »
  • Strayer University

    Earn a degree that fits your schedule at Strayer University.

    Programs

    • MBA: Acquisition
    • MSM: Marketing Management Concentration
    • Masters: Health Services Administration
    • More...

    Location: Online

    Strayer University
    Request Info »
  • Keiser University

    For over 30 years, Keiser University eCampus Online has provided student-centered, quality career education.

    Programs

    • Nursing, MS
    Location:
    Fort Lauderdale: , Fort Lauderdale FL 33309
    Keiser University
    Request Info »
  • DeVry University

    Make a difference with a graduate degree from DeVry University's Keller Graduate School of Management.

    Programs

    • Master's-Accounting and Financial Management
    • Master's-Human Resource Management
    • Master's-Business Administration
    • More...

    Location: Online

    DeVry University
    Request Info »
  • Virginia College

    Set your career in motion at Virginia College Online.

    Programs

    • MS - Cybersecurity
    • MBA
    • MS - Criminal Justice
    • More...
    Location:
    Birmingham: 300 River Hills Business Park, Birmingham AL 35242
    Virginia College
    Request Info »
  • American InterContinental University Online

    Earn an online degree that really matters from AIU Online.

    Programs

    • MBA - Finance
    • Master of Accounting
    • MBA - International Business
    • More...
    Location:
    Schaumburg: 231 N. Martingale Road, Schaumburg IL 60173
    American InterContinental University Online
    Request Info »