A master of science, of arts.  A master of nursing, public administration, social work.  Earning this first level of graduate education amounts to earning your rank in your profession, and complete knowledge and skill in a chosen field.

Where does a master’s degree sit in the lineup of graduate education?  This credential is the predecessor to a doctorate degree.  It typically requires a year and one-half to three years of study and is awarded by state or public universities.

In most cases, students in possession of their bachelor’s are applying for master-level programs.  However there are occasions where a place of work will pay for its higher level employees master’s programs to maintain efficiency and innovation.  This is seen often in the business administration field.  There are also master degree programs accepting associate’s degrees, diplomas, licensure and previous work experience for entry, seen occasionally in the nursing or psychology fields.  

Working professionals can complete a master’s degree online, in flexible formats.  Balancing a career, personal life, and education has never been more accessible.  Online master’s degrees can be found in any field, and are a growing choice for working adults who want to move forward in achieving their professional and academic goals.

There are several ways in which master degrees in the U.S. have become more attainable.  For instance, full- or part-time options, or integrated and accelerated programs.

A key element of a master’s degree program, and why most students earning their master’s can be described as, “tired a lot,” is an incredibly rigorous reputation.  General knowledge expands into specialties, developing your skills becomes advancing your skills.  You may work with a cohort, but a master’s is, overall, a much more individualized experience focused on how you see yourself utilizing what you learn in the professional sphere.

Read on to find  what is, why should you, and what happens when you earn a master’s degree below.