A master's degree is a postgraduate qualification that follows a bachelor's. It usually takes one to two years of full-time study. Students specialize further, often with a mix of coursework, research, and a final project or thesis. The degree signals advanced knowledge in a field.

Types vary. A Master of Arts (MA) leans toward humanities and social sciences. A Master of Science (MS) focuses on technical and scientific fields. Professional master's degrees, like the MBA or MPA, prepare students for specific careers. Some are terminal. Others lead to doctoral study.

A master's can boost earnings and open doors, but the return depends on the field. In engineering and business, the premium is often high. In some humanities fields, the cost may not pay off. Work experience sometimes matters more than the credential. Students should weigh the investment carefully.

Common types

• MA: Master of Arts
• MS: Master of Science
• MBA: Master of Business Administration
• MPA: Master of Public Administration
• MEd: Master of Education