What is a Master’s Degree? A guide to everything you need to know
There are plenty of flexible options to choose from, including Online Master’s Degrees, which make it possible to study while you work, raise a family, or enjoy the freedom of being a digital nomad. In the following paragraphs, we’ll tell you more about what a master’s degree is.
What is a master’s degree in the U.S.?
In the U.S., a master’s degree is part of higher education and follows a bachelor’s degree. These programs usually focus on a specific professional field and can be research-oriented or practice-based.
Most take between one and two years to complete, depending on the program format and whether you study full-time or part-time.
What is a master’s degree used for?
It’s common for people to pursue a master’s degree to move forward in their careers. It can help you qualify for promotions or take on more specialized roles. Some fields, like education, healthcare, and business leadership, require a master’s for senior-level positions or roles that involve specialized expertise.
But getting a master’s isn’t always about moving up in your current career; it’s also a way for professionals to update their skills and shift into new roles in a constantly evolving job market. Graduate studies can make that transition because they allow you to focus on a specific area, develop relevant skills, and reposition your experience for new opportunities.
What level is a master’s degree in higher education?
A master’s degree is a graduate-level academic degree that sits between a bachelor’s degree and a doctorate. Students at this level are expected to work more independently and focus on a specific area within their field, often through research projects or applied coursework.
Why is it important to earn a master’s degree?
Earning your master’s can strengthen your position in the job market, especially in fields like education, healthcare, or business. It also helps you develop more specialized knowledge and digital skills that are directly connected to your professional field, supporting both career development and growth within your current organization.
Graduate studies can also improve your earning potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers with a master’s degree earn a median of $1,840 per week, compared to $1,543 for those with a bachelor’s degree. Plus, people with more advanced degrees generally face lower unemployment rates.
What’s the difference between a bachelor’s degree, graduate studies, and a master’s degree?
A bachelor’s degree is typically the first university degree students earn, and it provides a broad foundation in a chosen subject. Graduate studies (known in some countries as postgraduate studies) refer to any education that comes after that, including master’s and doctoral programs. A master’s degree is one type of graduate program and comes with deeper knowledge and specialized training in a particular field.
How to study for a master’s degree in the U.S.: admission requirements
If you’re wondering how to get a master’s degree in the U.S., you first need to check the admission requirements. They can vary by program, but most include the following:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Academic transcript of previous coursework
- Standardized test scores, such as a GRE and/or exams related to the professional field of study
- Letters of recommendation from professors, employers or relevant contacts
- A personal statement explaining your goals and motivation
- A résumé or CV, especially for professional programs
Additional materials may include writing samples, portfolios, interviews, or even auditions, depending on the program.
Benefits of earning an online master’s degree from an international university
There are a lot of advantages to studying a master’s degree program online with an international university. To name a few:
- Cost effectiveness: Students can avoid the costs of commuting, relocation, on-campus housing, etc.
- Flexibility: You can study from anywhere in the world. Many programs offer recorded class sessions and self-paced coursework, so it’s easier to balance work and personal responsibilities.
- Variety: Online master’s degree programs let you access programs that may not be available locally.
- Networking opportunities: You can connect with classmates and professionals from different countries for a broader professional network.
What’s more, earning a degree from an international university can help you develop a broader perspective. As the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development notes, international education acts as “a catalyst for academic excellence, cultural exchange, economic growth, and international understanding,” all of which are increasingly valuable in today’s job market.
Source: OECD
How to choose the right master’s degree for you
Choosing the best online master’s degree programs for you depends on your goals and where you want to grow professionally, whether that means advancing in your current role, specializing further, or moving into a new field.
It’s important to consider your schedule, location, and commitments, as well as admission requirements, costs, college scholarships, program format, and duration. Finally, be sure to choose an accredited institution to guarantee educational quality and ensure your degree is recognized by employers and other institutions.
Frequently asked questions about master’s degrees
Can you earn a master’s degree while working?
Yes. Online master’s degree programs are designed for working professionals, so you can continue to work while earning your degree. Flexible formats make it more manageable.
What financing options are available for a master’s degree?
Financing options include college scholarships, grants, student loans, and employer tuition assistance. MIU City University Miami also offers payment plans.
How long does it take to earn a master’s degree?
Most programs take between one and two years to complete. How long a master’s degree is varies depending on your field of study, credit requirements, and whether you enroll full-time or part-time.
How many credits are required for a master’s degree?
How many credits a master’s degree is varies by program, but a U.S. master’s degree usually requires between 30 and 60. Some professional programs may require more, especially if they include internships or practical components.
If you’re ready for the next step, exploring accredited online master’s degree programs can help you find a program that matches your goals and your current situation. Flexible formats, such as online master’s degrees from MIU, make it easier to balance work, life, and continued education.
Bibliography
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (n.d.). Unemployment rates and earnings by educational attainment. https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/unemployment-earnings-education.htm
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. (2025). Education at a glance 2025: How does educational attainment affect participation in the labour market? https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/2025/09/education-at-a-glance-2025_c58fc9ae/full-report/how-does-educational-attainment-affect-participation-in-the-labour-market_ae451464.html
World Education Services. (2018). Education in the United States of America. https://wenr.wes.org/2018/06/education-in-the-united-states-of-america
National Center for Education Statistics. (n.d.). Digest of education statistics: Definitions. https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d22/app_b.asp
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