coursework meaning in master's degrees

What's the difference between a Masters by Coursework and a Masters by Research?

A Masters by Coursework is a professional qualification involving the study of a specified set of core units and a selection of eligible elective units. Undertaking a coursework program will mean that you will attend classes, complete assignments and sit exams where applicable. Some Masters by Coursework also require the completion of a minor thesis as part of the course. Dependent on the course, part-time and online study options are available. For more information, please see our Postgraduate Study at ECU web page. A Masters by Research involves the submission of a completed thesis based on an independent research project. Students studying a Masters by Research work independently with the support of a supervisor and the School. Students may be required to attend units to help expand skills in the area of research. For more information, please see our Research Degree web page.

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Published: 4 Sept 2023

4 Sept 2023 • Knowledge

Question & answer, related articles.

Can I apply to exit from my Master of Teaching with a Graduate Diploma in Teaching?
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What is a Master's Degree: Everything You Need to Know

Are you wondering if a Master’s degree is something you should pursue?

It may seem like everyone is asking that question these days. As industries quickly change with the rapid advance of technology and shifting regulations, many people look to an advanced degree to provide stability. In reality, there are many reasons to consider earning a Master’s degree.

Our program directors say the most common reasons current students cite include:

Career Change: Looking to pursue a new career in a new-to-them field
Personal Gain: Want to earn more money in their field
Professional Development: Want to become better at their current job/field
Academic Pursuit: Want to learn more deeply about a subject or a concept
Resume Building: Need to learn new skills to enter into the job market
Promotion Targeting: Need the degree to be eligible for a promotion
Personal Fulfillment: Enjoy the satisfaction of developing your critical thinking skills and completing advanced courses

Why do people look to Master’s degree to help achieve these goals? What makes a Master’s Degree so special? How is earning one different than earning a Bachelor’s degree? Are earners really more prepared for their careers and lives than those without them?

Welcome to your crash-course in Master’s Programs 101.

What Is a Master’s Degree?

A Master’s Degree is a certification, awarded by an accredited university , recognizing that a person has mastered a well-established and generally-agreed set of knowledge within a specific area.

The Master’s Degree Composition

Earning a Master’s typically requires about 40 credit hours of coursework with a minimum grade of 3.0 (or a B). However, some programs enable students to earn their degrees in fewer credits without compromising the quality and integrity of the coursework.

Master’s-level coursework is generally structured into 4 groups, typically divided as follows:

The General Courses (~10%) : These courses offer the foundational underpinnings of knowledge and information.; they may be merely supportive of your major or tangentially connected to your main focus of study.
The Major Core (~50%) : Your chosen major will have multiple subjects that work together to build a powerful and relevant education for success in the working world. These are the courses that will help you hit the ground running for jobs in your chosen field.
The Electives (~15%) : To meet your total number of hours required for your Master’s degree, you may have some hours left to spend on “elective” coursework. This is classwork that you can choose from a list of electives available in your program. It is part of personalizing your degree and also building yourself into a well-rounded individual.
The Capstone (~25%) : In construction, a capstone is the final stone placed at the top of a building. Similarly, in education, a capstone course is the culmination of your all your Master’s work. It is typically a practical, real-world application of your knowledge. Before beginning your capstone work, you may have to create a proposal that is reviewed and approved by your professor.

Structurally speaking, that’s the basics of a Master’s Degree. But, it’s what’s within the components above that makes a Master’s Degree such a distinguished achievement.

What matters most when choosing a master’s program? Compare features, benefits and cost to find the right school for you.

5 ways earning a master’s is different from earning a bachelor’s degree.

The graduate level is all about applied knowledge.

That means that programs are experience based, and not theoretical. Where a Bachelor’s regimen is typically structured around demonstrating knowledge, the Master’s program is structured around applying philosophies, principles, and guidance to real-world scenarios.

As such, a Master’s and Bachelor’s are distinct in several ways. If you’re considering earning a Master’s degree, you should be prepared for the following:

Different Type of Thinking. In a Master’s program, students are expected to do far more than just read, memorize, and provide proof of their knowledge. They must be ready to theorize, advance, and create. The knowledge, memorization, and understanding gained in a Bachelor’s degree becomes the foundation for the critical thinking required for a Master’s.
More Emphasis on Writing. As you move from a Bachelor’s level of work and into Master’s studies, you’ll need to adjust your writing style. You’re expected to be more thorough than just consulting one textbook for information. Get used to seeking out multiple references in your writing. Consider information sources that come at the same topic from different perspectives. Be thoughtful and creative as you triangulate many pieces of information into a cohesive, thought-provoking insight.
A Capstone Process. As mentioned earlier, to wrap up all of your Master’s work, your program will likely require a capstone project. This is generally not a part of a Bachelor’s program. The capstone can be a challenging process, and cannot be taken lightly.
Collaborative Community. In a Master’s program, one of the first things many students notice is the difference in peer relationships and mentoring. Graduate work typically requires you to work with the people around you. This high level of collaboration gives you an opportunity to seek out a mentor. It might be a peer, a faculty member, or a person who is already in the career you're pursuing. You’ll find that mentoring is common at the Master’s level of coursework.
The Need for a Support System. The truth is, you share a powerful bond with your classmates. You’re all working toward a common goal, but each person has a unique set of strengths that can be shared along the way. You give; you get. And everyone wins.

PRO TIP: To apply your abilities, you’ll need to take your writing to the next level. Read more. Write more. Snag interesting passages and save the URLs. Keep a running list of ideas and insights on your smart phone that you may come back to for your capstone project. We recommend keeping notes in Evernote or Google Docs.

What Determines the Quality of the Master’s Degree

In this age of online diploma mills, students should be careful in selecting a reputable program that provides a legitimate degree . As you choose the right school for your Master’s training, ask about the goal of their program and then ask how the school brings that goal to life. What you see below are the pieces that add up to a high-quality Master’s program; the details within these elements are what makes one degree a better choice than another.

Curriculum Design . Coursework should deeply reflect current events in the industry. It should address what it takes for a 21st-century career. A school should be able to talk with you in depth about trends in employment, because their coursework already addresses those trends. Ask your program how their curriculum is designed, and how frequently its evaluated.
Advisory Boards. A good school will have advisory boards staffed with current professionals and senior managers. Those advisory boards are constantly asking, "What are today’s employers looking for?" Good advisors ensure the school is only offering degrees that are actually in demand. Be sure to ask your program who sits on the advisory board for the degree you’re seeking.
Review student assessments to see if there are gaps in instruction, learning, or content
Check with employers to see the education is relevant, competitive, and helpful to their organizations. It’s not just about meeting students' information needs; a Master’s degree-granting school must also focus deeply on employers' needs in the workplace
Assess the courses themselves to look at the content and quality of the instruction Be sure to ask your program how thoroughly it reviews its programs, and ask for specific changes that have been made as part of that process.
Accreditation. The U.S. Department of Education governs whether a school earns accreditation . With regular, rigorous reviews, they make sure an institution has the faculty and resources necessary to offer a high-quality academic program. Ask if your program is accredited.
Program Reputation. Sometimes, you learn a lot about a Master’s degree program merely by listening to what others are saying. What do professional organizations say? (For example, what does the Society for Human Resource Management, or SHRM, say about a school’s MBA program?) Consider what training a professional organization deems to be important, and see if your school is addressing those needs. Check online for reviews of the school and ask your employer if they’ve heard of the program.

Is a Master’s Degree Really Worth the Investment?

Remember those reasons cited above for earning a degree? Research proves the degree does in fact help students realize those goals.

graphic describes if a masters degree is worth the investment

Is a Master’s Degree Right for You?

That’s a question only you can answer.

But, as we’ve seen, there are several advantages (on both a personal and professional level) to making the necessary investments to earn the degree.

According to Joel Gardner, Franklin University’s Department Chair and Instructional Design Faculty Member:

“For many people I've taught, a Master’s is a way to develop and grow in ways you couldn't achieve without the program. It’s a transformation. Think about that. Here’s a program that helps you change who you are fundamentally. In 1 or 2 years, you get a chance to alter how you look at the world, how you think, and how you can contribute to your career. That's pretty amazing.”

In any case, it’s commonly known that going back to school for a Master’s degree isn’t just a walk in the park. Before you start that journey, it’s a good idea to understand the landscape and prepare for what’s ahead. The truth is that the challenge of earning a Master’s degree can be an extremely worthwhile investment—if you remain committed to the program and your reasons for earning the degree.

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Quick Guide: Your College Degree Options

Find the right college for you.

There are generally four categories of college degrees: associate degree, bachelor’s degree, graduate degree, and doctorate or professional degree. Each category comes with its own particular subcategories, and there are some subtle differences between a doctorate and a professional degree.

If you ever find yourself lost in the sea of abbreviations for degrees, you're not alone. This quick guide is here to clear the air regarding the types of degrees available to you and what each one means.

Guide to College Degrees, Professional Studies & Certifications

Associate degree.

An associate degree is a two-year degree typically offered at community colleges, technical colleges, and career colleges. However, some four-year universities offer them as well. Examples of some associate degrees include Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS).

AS degrees are generally more narrowly focused and prepare students for science and math-related careers. AA degrees are broader and focus on fields outside of math and science such as liberal arts, business administration, criminal justice, and culinary arts.

Some students who earn an associate degree transfer to a four-year program to earn a bachelor’s degree. Others complete associate degrees and then go straight to work.

Bachelor's or Baccalaureate Degree

Bachelor’s degrees require students to complete four- or five-year programs in a specific academic discipline. The two most common types of bachelor’s degrees are bachelor of arts (BA) and bachelor of science (BS). Other types of bachelor’s degrees include the bachelor of fine arts (BFA), and bachelor of architecture (BArch).

Because bachelor’s degrees train students to enter a specific field, many professional careers require them. Earning a bachelor’s degree can open the door to many job opportunities and increase your potential income.

Some institutions offer a liberal arts and career combination program, also called a 3-2 program. This is a type of dual degree in which a student completes three years of liberal arts study followed by two years of professional or technical study. In the end, students earn two bachelor’s degrees, usually a BA and a BS.

An example of this is Columbia University’s 3-2 Combined Plan program in which students can earn a BA and a BS in five years.

Some colleges also let you earn a teacher certification by combining bachelor's degree study with state certification requirements. State requirements vary, but these programs usually feature professional education courses, including student teaching.

Graduate Degree

Graduate degrees are advanced degrees that some students pursue after earning a bachelor’s degree. The two most common are master of arts (MA) and master of science (MS). Other examples include master of fine arts (MFA) and master of business administration (MBA). A graduate degree is like an extension of a bachelor’s degree whereby a student further enriches their knowledge of their field and narrows their f ocus of study .

Graduate degrees usually take around two years to attain, but this can vary based on the degree. Many institutions allow students to enroll in a graduate program in a field unrelated to their bachelor’s degree. This may require some extra credit hours, though.

Professional Degree

Students earn professional degrees to become licensed to work in professions like medicine or law. The M.D. degree is an example. Professional programs generally require a college degree before you start them and then at least three years of study to complete.

Doctoral Degree and Professional Degree

The doctorate and professional degrees are the highest levels of education one can attain. They signify mastery of a subject and often come with the coveted title “doctor.” Although the two are similar, there are some important differences.

A doctorate or doctoral degree is a research-oriented degree focused on scholarly development. The most common doctorate is the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Despite the name, a PhD covers many disciplines, not just philosophy.

A professional degree is an application-oriented degree, meaning it prepares students for a specific working position. There are many types of professional degrees. Some examples are: doctor of medicine (MD), doctor of pharmacy (PharmD), and doctor of medicine in dentistry (DMD) in the field of medicine, and juris doctor (JD) and doctor of juridical science (SJD) in the field of law.

A graduate degree does not need to precede a doctorate or professional degree. Often, students will go straight into a doctorate or professional program following their bachelor’s, however some programs will require a master’s degree to gain entry. Completion can take anywhere from four to eight years, depending on the field of study.

Many doctoral students work either full-time or part-time while they study in the program. This, along with the field they are studying, will significantly affect the time it takes to complete their degree.

Joint Degrees

Some students may choose to pursue a joint degree, also known as a dual degree, which means they simultaneously study for a bachelor’s degree and a graduate degree. Joint degrees can be pursued in the same college or can be split between two different colleges. For example, Berklee College of Music and Harvard University offer a dual bachelor’s/master’s program in which a student receives a bachelor of arts (BA) at Harvard and a master of music (MM) or master of arts (MA) at Berklee.

Depending on the program, it may be possible to study at the same time for a master's degree and a doctorate. For example, the University of Southern California offers a program leading to doctor of pharmacy and master of public health degrees.

How do academic degrees go in order?

There are four types of degrees. In order of level of education, they rank as associate degree, bachelor’s degree, master’s or graduate degrees, and doctorate or professional degrees.

How many degrees are there in college?

Most community colleges offer only two-year associate degrees, while most four-year colleges offer bachelor’s, graduate, and doctorate or professional degrees. Some four-year colleges may also have associate degree programs.

How many years do you have to be in college to achieve certain degrees?

Though it will vary between academic disciplines, associate degrees usually take two years to achieve, bachelor’s degrees take four years, master’s degrees take two years, and doctorate or professional degrees can take anywhere from four to eight years.

What is an eight-year degree?

An “eight-year degree” typically refers to a doctorate degree or PhD. Although some doctorates can be completed in as little as three years, these degrees typically require more time studying highly specialized subjects. Students in these programs often must defend a dissertation while already working a professional job.

What are the four years of college called?

The first four years of college are the undergraduate years, and a student studying for a bachelor’s degree is called an undergraduate. The four years refer to the total accumulated credit hours; a student may take fewer or more than four years to attain their undergraduate degree.

What does a graduate degree mean?

A graduate degree or master’s degree is an advanced degree that some students pursue after earning a bachelor’s degree. Earning a graduate degree signifies mastery of a particular field of study and focuses more intensely on a subject than a bachelor’s degree does. Graduate degrees usually take two years to attain.

What do you call a master's student?

A master's student is called a graduate student or “grad student” for short. A student still studying for a bachelor’s degree is called an undergraduate student or “undergrad student.”

How many years is a master's degree?

Graduate Certificate vs. Master’s Degree: What’s the Difference?

Learn the similarities and differences between these two postgraduate academic credentials.

Mary Sharp Emerson

Adding a postgraduate credential like a master’s degree or a graduate certificate to your resume can be a great way to advance your career. It might even be a stepping stone on the pathway to an exciting career change.

Knowing which credential to choose, however, can be challenging.

A master’s degree and a graduate certificate can both be valuable. They have many similarities. But they are not interchangeable.

Understanding the differences between them before you go back to school can help ensure that you choose the right one.

What is a Master’s Degree?

A master’s degree is an academic postgraduate credential designed to help you build broad, foundational expertise in a specific field or discipline. Completing a master’s usually (although not always) requires several years of coursework and a thesis or capstone project.

Master’s degrees are offered by a university or other accredited academic institution. To earn your master’s degree, you’ll have to successfully complete a set number of credit hours.

Most master’s degree programs require 10-12 courses. To earn many of the master’s degrees at Harvard Extension School, for example, you’ll have to earn a B or higher in 12 courses (48 credits). However, each master’s degree program will define its requirements slightly differently.

Depending on the specific program, you will likely have to complete several required courses. You’ll also have the option to tailor your program by choosing electives in areas of special interest to you.

You may also be required to complete a research or capstone project or a thesis. This project will allow you to customize your program even more, as well as further demonstrate expertise in a specialized area.

Some master’s degree programs require a full-time, on-campus commitment. Many master’s degree programs today, however, can be completed part time (often partially or fully online). Although this takes longer than attending full time, you can continue to work while earning your degree.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a master’s degree program .

Explore master’s degree programs at Harvard Extension School.

What is a Graduate Certificate?

Similar to a master’s degree, a graduate certificate is a credit-based academic credential offered by a university. However, a graduate certificate is more narrowly focused on a specialized field than a master’s degree.

Graduate certificates are a significantly smaller investment in time and money than a master’s. They usually require completion of between three and five graduate-level courses. Most graduate certificates at Harvard Extension require four courses, for example.

You can earn a graduate certificate as a stand-alone credential. Although a graduate certificate is not an academic degree, you may be able to stack your certificate coursework toward a master’s degree.

You can find graduate certificates in a wide range of fields. Technical certificate topics include cybersecurity and data science , for instance.

If you’re in management, you may want to supplement your corporate knowledge with a certificate in nonprofit or strategic management . Or you may want to improve your leadership skills with a graduate certificate in social justice or equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging .

Most graduate certificates can be completed part time. Many offer a variety of class formats, including asynchronous or synchronous online courses and in-person courses.

Explore Graduate Certificates at Harvard Extension School.

How is a graduate certificate different from a professional certification?

A graduate certificate is not the same as a professional or industry certification.

A professional certification is a nonacademic credential awarded by a professional or industry organization. Earning a professional certification usually requires passing a test or exam demonstrating knowledge of a set of skills or a specific tool. You may need to take a class or complete coursework to pass the exam.

For example, to earn a Project Management Graduate Certificate at Harvard Extension School, you have to earn at least a B in four graduate-level courses in management, leadership, and strategy. To earn a Project Management Professional Certification , offered by the PMI Institute, you have to meet the PMI Institute qualification requirements and pass the PMP exam.

Graduate Certificate vs. Master’s: What Are the Key Differences?

Understanding the key differences between a graduate certificate and a master’s degree is the first step in choosing between these two credentials.

Here are some points of comparison that may help guide your decision-making process:

Required number of courses: Graduate certificates usually require significantly fewer courses than a master’s degree. At Harvard Extension School, for instance, most graduate certificates require four courses. Most master’s programs require 10 to 12 courses.
Degree of specialization : A master’s degree is designed to give you broad and deep knowledge in a field. A graduate certificate is more narrowly focused; you can build specialized skills in an area. For example, you could earn a master’s degree in sustainability and a graduate certificate in sustainable food systems.
Level of commitment : Graduate certificates are designed with the working professional in mind. Most certificates can be completed online, with flexible live or on-demand class offerings. Master’s degree programs vary significantly in their flexibility and the extent to which they tailor to working professionals. Some master’s degrees, for example, may be fully in person or may require that a percentage of your classes be taken on campus.
Cost and financial aid : Graduate certificates cost less to complete than master’s degree programs because you are required to complete fewer credits. However, once you are enrolled in a master’s degree program, you may be eligible for federal and state student loans and grants. Students working toward a certificate are not eligible for student loans, although private loans and employer tuition assistance may still be an option.
Admissions process : Starting a certificate may have fewer admissions requirements than enrolling in a master’s degree program. You may be able to complete a certificate simply by taking (and passing) the appropriate classes. The admissions process for a master’s degree program varies greatly. Some master’s degree programs, for example, require a formal application process. To begin the admissions process at Harvard Extension School, on the other hand, you first successfully complete a set number of courses in the master’s degree course of study.

Graduate Certificate vs. Master’s: Which is Best for Me?

When it comes to choosing a graduate certificate or master’s degree, there’s no right or wrong choice.

Both credentials—when earned from a reputable, accredited university—demonstrate advanced skills and knowledge in your field. And they also demonstrate your ability and commitment to lifelong learning, a trait highly valued by many employers.

Your choice will depend on the skills you hope to gain, your unique career goals, and the level of commitment—both in time and in money—you can make to a graduate program.

Benefits of a Graduate Certificate

A graduate certificate may be most valuable for individuals who want to fill a gap in your skillset or deepen your understanding of a topic area that relates to your work. A graduate certificate might also be best for you if you find yourself unable to commit to the time or cost that it would take to complete a master’s program. Graduate certificates are a great option for students seeking to continue their education while working full time.

Benefits of a Master’s Degree

A master’s degree demonstrates a broader, more advanced breadth of knowledge across a particular field. The knowledge and skills you gain from a master’s program may be transferable across multiple career paths. While it may take longer and cost more to earn your master’s degree, the long-term benefits should make the hard work and commitment worth it.

Stacking Your Credentials

In some cases, you may find you don’t have to choose. At Harvard Extension School, for instance, the courses you take to earn a certificate may also apply to a master’s degree program. Many graduate students complete one or more graduate certificates while completing a master’s degree.

Going back to school is a big decision — one that can have a critical impact on your career. The good news is that there are many options and opportunities for continuing your education. Whether you choose a graduate certificate or a master’s, both can be an excellent investment in your future.

Ready to get started? Find the program that’s right for you.

Browse all graduate programs at Harvard Extension School.

About the Author

Digital Content Producer

Emerson is a Digital Content Producer at Harvard DCE. She is a graduate of Brandeis University and Yale University and started her career as an international affairs analyst. She is an avid triathlete and has completed three Ironman triathlons, as well as the Boston Marathon.

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What is the difference between a postgraduate taught master’s and a postgraduate research master’s?

Pgce, mres, ma, msc or phd if you’re considering postgraduate study, use this guide to learn the difference between the kinds of postgraduate degrees on offer.

Richard Carruthers

Postgraduate courses come in many formats, ranging from vocational diplomas and certificates through to master’s and doctoral qualifications.

The two most common categories of postgraduate study are postgraduate taught (PGT) courses and postgraduate research (PGR) courses.

As you shop around potential postgraduate courses, you may also come across the PGCE, the LLM, the MRes, the MPhil and the PhD.

But what is the difference between all these acronyms?

Below is a guide explaining the differences between all the postgraduate degrees on offer, including how the application process varies between them.

Postgraduate taught (PGT) courses

Postgraduate taught courses are sometimes called level 7 qualifications and are one of the most common kinds of master’s degrees. When people refer to master’s courses, they usually mean a postgraduate taught course.

These courses are typically one year in duration if studied full-time, or two years if studying part-time.

The course will usually comprise several months of taught classes, much like undergraduate study, followed by an intensive independent research project for the final few months.

These courses have highly specialised content, making them great launchpads for careers where specialist knowledge is required. They are also often used as a stepping stone to more advanced research degrees.

What’s the difference between an MSc and an MA?

Postgraduate taught courses will usually lead to either an MSc or an MA qualification, depending on the subject you choose.

An MSc stands for a “master of science” and will focus on advancing a particular aspect of scientific research across the sciences, engineering, mathematics or a similar field that involves logic, scientific research or numbers.

An MA refers to a “master of arts”, and covers postgraduate taught degrees in the arts and humanities, such as literature, languages, history, cultural studies and some social sciences.

Applying for a postgraduate taught course

To apply for a postgraduate taught course, you will normally be asked to provide transcripts showing your academic performance on your undergraduate degree, a personal statement and a CV.

Your CV should focus on your educational achievements and interests and discuss any project work that shows you have the technical and academic skills needed to be a successful and independent postgraduate student.

Your personal statement can be tackled in a similar way to a cover letter, where you introduce yourself and convey your interest, enthusiasm and motivation to study the subject. It is also advisable to tailor your statement to each course you apply for and to explain your interest in some of the modules offered by that specific course.

It can also be beneficial to demonstrate some thought around where the course will lead you in the future, whether that’s into a new career or towards further study.

With postgraduate taught courses, you often won’t have to submit a research proposal for your research project as part of your application, as the taught elements of the course are meant to help inform your research proposal.

However, some postgraduate master’s courses may ask for you to submit a research proposal or at least have an idea of the topic you want to do your master’s dissertation on, even if this changes later.

Applying to master’s courses is generally done through a decentralised system, meaning you apply individually to each course and university. Each institution will set different entrance and application requirements. Check the exact requirements your course is looking for, and get in touch with the institution’s postgraduate admissions office with any questions.

What are MRes and MPhil degrees?

The MPhil stands for “master of philosophy”. The MRes course option, which is relatively new but has grown in popularity in recent years, stands for a “master of research”.

Much like postgraduate taught courses, both the MPhil and the MRes are technically classified as level 7 qualifications, and typically take one year to complete.

The main difference between an MRes or MPhil and a postgraduate taught course is that MRes and MPhil courses place much more focus on individual research, with as much as 60 per cent to 100 per cent of either degree consisting of a personal research project.

Given the heavy research focus, MRes and MPhil courses tend to contain fewer taught classes, but you will usually receive training in research techniques. As a result of the research focus, an MRes or an MPhil may help prepare a student for a doctoral programme (PGR) or a career that requires specific research skills and techniques.

Applying for an MRes or MPhil course is very similar to applying for a postgraduate taught course, but you may be asked to submit a research proposal as part of your application, so it’s important to have an idea of the kind of research project you would like to pursue.

Doctorate courses

Postgraduate research (PGR) courses are sometimes called level 8 qualifications and usually refer to doctorate courses.

These courses take about three to four years of full-time study to complete, but the exact duration of a doctorate course depends on whether you get involved in teaching, how long your research takes to complete and how long it takes you to write your doctorate thesis.

Successful PhD candidates are awarded doctoral qualifications such as doctor of philosophy (PhD) or doctor of engineering (EngD), depending on their field of research.

Research is the core component of a PhD programme, and you will be expected to produce original work on a specific subject topic, usually in the form of a thesis.

Doctorate qualifications are often a prerequisite for a career as a university academic, researcher or scientist in industry.

Applying for a doctorate (PhD) programme

To apply for a doctorate degree, you’ll need to submit a personal statement and a CV, both providing evidence of your academic experiences and passion for the subject.

Some PhD programmes will expect you to have already completed a postgraduate taught programme, but this isn’t always essential.

For a PhD, you may also be asked to submit a detailed research proposal outlining a specific research question you would like to address, the subject area you will work in, and the approach you would take to solving this.

Your proposal should demonstrate your current knowledge and discuss how your research idea could develop or challenge existing knowledge. You should also mention the potential significance of your research and why it would be a useful contribution to your chosen field.

Usually, you will be expected to apply individually to each PhD programme you’re interested in. Places will usually be dependent on your academic achievements, but also on the funding available in your chosen university department and whether the university can provide an appropriate supervisor.

If you’re considering applying for a PhD, it may be worth contacting academics individually to discuss whether they’d be interested in supervising you and asking about any funding opportunities.

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Are you ready to discover your college program?

Considering a college degree? First, you'll have to understand the types of degrees and college degree levels.

Different degrees prepare you for different career paths. For example, you can't become a psychologist with just a bachelor's degree — you'd need a master's or doctorate in psychology. And you usually can't become an engineer without at least a bachelor's degree.

Typically, as your university degree level rises, your earning potential increases, and the unemployment rate decreases. That's one more reason it's important to understand the different types of degrees.

What Types of Degrees Are There in College?

There are many types of degrees you can earn in college. College degree levels can be broken down into two categories: undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees.

Here are the college degrees in order, from lowest ranking to highest:

Associate degree (undergraduate)
Bachelor's degree (undergraduate)
Master's degree (graduate)
Doctoral degree (graduate)

While a doctorate is the highest education level, some fields may stop at a master's. The phrase "terminal degree" refers to the highest degree in a field.

A professional degree is a type of graduate degree — often a doctorate — that prepares you for a professional career in fields like law and medicine.

Popular Online Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Associate Degree

Typical Program Length: 1-2 years
Typical Number of Credits: 60

Most associate degrees prepare you to enter the workforce immediately upon graduation. These programs can be found at community and technical colleges and typically last 1-2 years.

An associate degree can also serve as the foundation for a bachelor's program. You may even be able to transfer some of the credits you earned for your associate degree toward a four-year degree.

Some associate degrees require you to complete an internship or practicum in addition to taking classes. This is particularly common among healthcare and tech degrees.

To apply for an associate degree program , you'll need a high school diploma or equivalent, like a GED certificate. Some schools may require you to submit standardized test scores, such as the ACT or the SAT, as well.

Featured Associate Programs

What can you do with an associate degree.

An associate degree prepares you for vocational, allied health, and support roles. For example, you can become a medical assistant , paralegal , or vet tech with an associate degree.

The highest-paying careers with an associate degree pay over $80,000 per year. See the table below for salary information on other popular associate degree jobs.

Source: BLS

Types of Associate Degrees

Colleges can offer three kinds of associate degrees:

Associate of Arts (AA)
Associate of Science (AS)
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)

Arts, humanities, and creative fields typically offer an AA, whereas social sciences and natural sciences fields often award an AS. Many applied and vocational programs offer an AAS degree.

The type of degree matters if you're planning to transfer into a bachelor's program. Colleges normally offer fewer transfer credits for an AAS degree.

Popular Associate Degrees

Business Administration
Business Management
Computer Science
Criminal Justice
Cybersecurity
Early Childhood Education
Graphic Design
Healthcare Management
Information Technology
Medical Assisting
Medical Billing and Coding
Pre-Nursing
Social Work

Bachelor's Degree

Typical Program Length: 4 years
Typical Number of Credits: 120

A bachelor's degree prepares you for many career paths. You'll generally spend four years earning a bachelor's degree at a college or university. You'll take general education classes and courses in your major . You can also choose a minor.

Some colleges offer accelerated bachelor's programs , which take less time — often 2-3 years. Degree-completion programs can also speed up the timeline by awarding you credit for previous college coursework.

You can earn your bachelor's degree online as well. An online degree from an accredited college meets the same standards as that of an in-person degree.

You'll need a high school diploma for admission and may also need to submit SAT or ACT scores.

Featured Bachelor's Programs

What can you do with a bachelor's degree.

In diverse industries like business, tech, and education, a bachelor's degree can prepare you for many entry-level careers. Some of the highest-paying jobs with a bachelor's degree include roles in finance, management, and tech.

Graduates with a four-year degree can also benefit from high demand in many lucrative fields, like software development and engineering. The table below introduces some popular jobs with a bachelor's degree.

Types of Bachelor's Degrees

You can earn a bachelor's degree in many fields. Some of the most common types of bachelor's degrees you'll see include:

Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Bachelor of Science (BS)
Bachelor of Applied Arts (BAA)
Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS)
Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.)
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)

The two most popular degrees are a BA and a BS. These degrees cover all arts and sciences majors and some education and engineering degrees.

Popular Bachelor's Degrees

Civil Engineering
Communication
Computer Programming
Health Informatics
Health Sciences
Human Resources
Mathematics
Organizational Psychology
Political Science
Public Policy
Supply Chain and Logistics

Master's Degree

Typical Program Length: 1-3 years
Typical Number of Credits: 30

A master's degree can help you gain specialized skills and qualify for higher-paying roles. As a graduate student, you'll work closely with experts in your field to explore advanced topics.

While a master's degree typically takes two years, some universities offer accelerated one-year master's programs. You can also enroll in a bachelor's-to-master's program to earn both a bachelor's and master's degree in less time.

Most master's programs require a minimum of 30 credits. Admission and graduation requirements vary depending on the program. For example, many arts and sciences master's programs require GRE scores , while business programs typically require GMAT scores .

Featured Master's Programs

What can you do with a master's degree.

With a master's degree, you can qualify for management-level careers and specialized roles in industries like healthcare, research, and social services. The highest-paying master's degrees include MBAs and nurse practitioner degrees.

Learn more about the earning potential and demand for popular master's degree jobs below.

Types of Master's Degrees

Here are some of the most common types of master's degrees you can earn:

Master of Arts (MA)
Master of Science (MS)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Master of Laws (LL.M.)
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Master of Public Health (MPH)
Master of Public Policy (MPP)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Master of Social Work (MSW)

An MA and an MS are among the most popular master's degrees. Humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences fields typically award an MA or an MS. Other popular options include an MBA and an M.Ed.

Popular Master's Degrees

Creative Writing
Data Science
Engineering
Healthcare Administration
Library and Information Science
Network Security
Public Health
Supply Chain Management

Doctoral Degrees

Typical Program Length: 2-10 years
Typical Number of Credits: Varies

A doctorate represents the highest degree you can get in academia. There are a few types of doctoral degrees you can get.

Professional doctorates train you for a professional career. For example, law school and med school are two common professional paths. A Ph.D., on the other hand — by far one of the most common types of doctorates — emphasizes theory and research.

In a doctoral program, you'll take graduate-level seminars and courses, take comprehensive exams, conduct original research, and defend a dissertation in front of a faculty committee.

Most applied doctorates take 3-5 years, while a Ph.D. typically requires 4-6 years of coursework. In certain fields, you can earn your doctorate online.

Some doctoral programs require a master's degree for admission, whereas others admit applicants with just a bachelor's degree. You may need to submit standardized test scores depending on the program.

Featured Doctoral Programs

What can you do with a doctorate.

If you want to become a physician , professor , or lawyer, you'll need a doctorate. In many fields, a doctorate translates into higher salaries. Lawyers, pharmacists , and physicists all report median salaries of over $125,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

The following table shows the earning potential and demand for popular doctoral degree jobs.

Types of Doctoral Degrees

A doctorate is the highest education level, but there are still several types of doctoral degrees. Here are some of the most common you can get:

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)
Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.)
Juris Doctor (JD)

A Ph.D. is the most popular doctorate. You can earn a Ph.D. in many arts and sciences fields. Other doctorates take their names from the career path associated with the degree.

Popular Doctoral Degrees

Curriculum and Instruction
Educational Administration
Educational Leadership
Human Services
Legal Studies
Organizational Leadership
Public Administration

Frequently Asked Questions About College Degree Levels

What are the four types of college degrees.

The four types of college degrees are associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral degrees. Colleges classify associate and bachelor's degrees as undergraduate degrees and master's and doctoral degrees as graduate degrees.

Within those categories, you can earn many types of degrees. For instance, at the bachelor's level, you could earn a bachelor of arts (BA), a bachelor of science (BS), or a bachelor of fine arts (BFA) degree.

What is a four-year college degree called?

A four-year college degree is called a bachelor's degree. Another term for this degree type is a baccalaureate degree.

Many careers require a bachelor's degree for entry-level roles. For example, most careers in business require you to hold a bachelor's degree. Many roles in tech, education, the public sector, and engineering also require you to have a four-year degree.

Some career paths require a specific major. In many states, you'll need a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) to become a registered nurse . In other fields, your specific major matters less than the quality of your skills.

What is the highest degree?

The highest degree is a doctorate, also called a doctoral degree. In terms of university degree levels, both master's and bachelor's degrees rank below doctorates.

You can earn a doctorate in a wide array of fields, including the social sciences, business, the humanities, education, engineering, and healthcare.

In some fields, however, a master's degree represents the terminal, or highest, degree. For instance, a master of fine arts (MFA) is the terminal degree for creative writing.

What is the hardest college degree?

Most would agree that the hardest college degree is a doctorate. As the highest education level, a doctorate requires significant expertise in the field.

Many Ph.D. programs take six years or more and require you to write a book-length dissertation based on original research.

Because a doctorate represents the top of the university degree levels, it's a relatively uncommon degree. Only around 2% of U.S. adults held a doctorate in 2022, according to the U.S. Census Bureau .

What is the quickest degree?

The fastest degree you can get is either a one-year associate degree or a one-year master's degree. While other types of degrees typically take a minimum of two years, you can earn a master's degree in one year with an accelerated or fast-track program.

You can sometimes add a master's degree to your bachelor's through a 4+1 program, also known as a bachelor's-to-master's program. In this case, some of your coursework counts toward both your undergraduate and graduate degrees, meaning you'll spend an additional year in college to leave with a master's degree.

Explore More College Resources

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Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.

Undergraduate vs. Graduate: Educate Yourself On The Difference

Undergraduate Meaning
Undergraduate Student And Degree
Graduate Meaning
Graduate Degree And Student
Graduate Origin
Postgraduate Meaning

⚡ Quick summary

The main difference between undergraduate and graduate is that undergraduate is always used in the context of the first level of college or university education (the level where you can earn a bachelor’s degree ). In terms like graduate student and graduate degree , graduate refers to a level of advanced education beyond the undergraduate level, especially a master’s degree or doctorate . The noun graduate is more general, simply referring to a person who has completed a level of education (someone who has graduated ).

The difference between undergraduate and graduate is a difference of degrees (*throws graduation cap in the air to celebrate the pun*).

The level of education that each word involves varies depending on how the word is being used, and there are situations in which both words can be used in the same situation. For example, you can become a graduate student after graduating with an undergraduate degree.

The word graduate can mean very different things depending on whether it’s used as a noun (as in recent high school graduates ), an adjective (as in graduate student and graduate degree ), or a verb (as in I plan to graduate next May ). The same goes for its shortened form, grad , which can be used as a noun (as in Congrats, grads! ) or an adjective (as in grad program ).

Undergraduate can also be used both as a noun (as in I’m an undergraduate at Stanford University ) or an adjective (as in I’m working toward my undergraduate degree ). It can be shortened to undergrad in both cases.

By the end of this article, you’ll have an advanced degree in all the different ways graduate, grad , undergraduate , and undergrad are used, and what they mean in each case.

What does undergraduate mean?

An undergraduate is “a student in a university or college who has not received a first, especially a bachelor’s, degree.” For example, a college student might say I’m an undergraduate at the University of Texas if they were pursuing a bachelor’s degree there.

Undergraduate is also commonly used as an adjective in this same context, in terms like undergraduate student , undergraduate degree , and undergraduate studies.

Undergraduate is often shortened to undergrad as both a noun and an adjective.

In undergraduate, the prefix under- is used to indicate a lower rank or status. The educational status of an undergraduate student is below that of a graduate student.

What’s the difference between wisdom and knowledge ? Here’s a lesson on the two terms.

What is an undergraduate student ? And what is an undergraduate degree ?

An undergraduate student is a student who is pursuing a degree at the first level of higher education (meaning the level after high school) at a college or university. Undergraduate students are typically those working to earn a bachelor’s degree (or, less commonly, an associate’s degree ). These degrees are often referred to with the general term undergraduate degree.

Outside of the US, an undergraduate degree is sometimes called a first degree. There are also other types of undergraduate degrees outside of the US, such as a foundation degree (which, like an associate’s degree, is typically a two-year degree).

What does graduate mean?

As a noun, the word graduate [ graj -oo-it ] refers to “a person who has received a degree or diploma on completing a course of study.” In other words, a graduate is someone who has completed a particular level of schooling or an educational program—a child who just finished kindergarten and a doctor who just completed medical school are both graduates. It can even be used figuratively , as in She’s a graduate of the school of hard knocks.

As a verb, graduate [ graj -oo-eyt ] means “to receive a degree or diploma on completing a course of study.” The process of graduating—and the ceremony itself—is called graduation .

As an adjective, graduate [ graj -oo-it ] means something more specific. It’s used to indicate that a student, degree, or educational program is an advanced one, beyond the level of a bachelor’s degree. This sense of graduate is most commonly used in terms like graduate degree, graduate school , graduate program, and graduate student.

What is a graduate degree ? And what is a graduate student ?

Graduate degree typically refers to a degree beyond a bachelor’s, most commonly a master’s.

A graduate student is a student who’s pursuing an advanced degree after having earned their undergraduate degree (such as a bachelor’s degree) by graduating from an undergraduate program. Calling someone a graduate student most often means they are pursuing their master’s degree, but it may be another advanced degree, such as a PhD (You’d most commonly call such students PhD students. Or you might say they are working toward their doctorate or their doctoral degree.)

To earn a graduate degree, graduate students go to a division of a university known as graduate school , and such a program is often called a graduate program. In all of these terms, graduate is often shortened to grad : grad school , grad student , grad program . (A student doesn’t become a graduate student until they take graduate-level courses. For example, if a student graduates with a bachelor’s degree and then later pursues a different bachelor’s degree, they are still an undergraduate student .)

Some graduate studies are referred to in more specific ways: medical students go to medical school to earn their medical degree ; law students go to law school to earn their law degree.

Do you know the difference between these highly-esteemed graduate degrees and titles: PhD, MD, and Dr ?

Where does the word graduate come from?

Graduate comes from the Medieval Latin graduārī, meaning “to take a degree.” It ultimately derives from the Latin gradus, meaning “a step.” Each time you graduate, you take a step to the next level of education.

What does postgraduate mean?

The adjective postgraduate is sometimes used in the same way as the adjective sense of the word graduate, especially in the UK, as in postgraduate student or postgraduate studies.

Postgraduate should not be confused with postdoctoral , which refers to studies, research, or professional work above the level of a doctorate.

How to use undergraduate vs. graduate

The best way to sort out the different meanings of undergraduate and graduate is to determine whether each word is being used as a noun, an adjective, or a verb. Here’s an easy breakdown of the differences.

undergraduate (noun): A college student pursuing a non-advanced degree, most commonly a bachelor’s degree. Can be shortened to undergrad.
undergraduate (adjective): Used in the context of colleges and university programs ( undergraduate programs ) where students are pursuing a degree (generally referred to as an undergraduate degree ) that is not an advanced degree. Also sometimes shortened to undergrad.
graduate (noun): A person who has completed a particular level of schooling or educational program. Can be shortened to grad.
graduate (verb): To complete a level of schooling (and, typically, to receive a degree or diploma). You can graduate from kindergarten, high school, college, graduate school, medical school, etc.
graduate (adjective): Used in the context of advanced schooling—a level beyond a bachelor’s degree, most commonly a master’s program. Used in terms like graduate student , graduate school , graduate degree , graduate program , graduate courses , etc. Often shortened to grad.

Examples of undergraduate, undergrad, graduate, and grad used in a sentence

Let’s look at some examples of these words in actual, real-life use to get the meanings straight.

As an undergraduate, she had studied engineering; as a graduate student, she switched to architecture.
I completed my undergraduate degree after five years and a lot of hard work.
As a graduate student, you will be expected to complete a thesis.
You should start thinking about graduate school applications before you graduate.
Most of the applicants for this position are recent college graduates.
I’m still an undergrad, but I’m hoping to start grad school next fall.
I’m a UGA grad, but I almost went to Georgia Tech.

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What Is an MBA?
How It Works

Types of MBA Programs

Special considerations, the bottom line.

Degrees & Certifications

What Is a Master of Business Administration (MBA)?

Julia Kagan is a financial/consumer journalist and former senior editor, personal finance, of Investopedia.

Investopedia / Jessica Olah

A master of business administration (MBA) is a graduate degree that provides theoretical and practical training for business or investment management. An MBA is designed to help graduates gain a better understanding of business management functions.

An MBA degree can have a general focus or a specific focus in fields such as accounting, finance, marketing, and international business.

Key Takeaways

An MBA is a graduate business degree focused on management, business, and entrepreneurship.
MBA students can also focus on other aspects of business, like finance or risk management.
Many schools now offer specialty programs in sports management, the entertainment business, or healthcare management.
Executive MBA programs are available for experienced professionals who cannot commit to a full-time schedule.
MBA programs may be full-time, part-time, online, or international, and each program usually has different requirements for acceptance.

How a Master of Business Administration (MBA) Works

An MBA is a level up from an undergraduate business degree and generally places the graduate well above those with only undergraduate degrees. Most major universities and colleges provide MBA programs, which usually last two years.

To get into an MBA program, an applicant needs to take the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) and be accepted by the program based on its particular selection criteria. Some programs may require the GRE instead or accept it as an alternative standardized test.

Program Focus

MBA programs typically include core classes in accounting , management, finance, marketing , and business law. Management training is at the heart of any MBA curriculum, with a focus on leadership, planning, business strategy, organizational behavior, and the more human sides of running a large or small business .

Increasingly, MBA programs include training in international business and a focus on the responsibilities and corporate accountability of businesses within their communities.

The MBA degree is the most common route into certain fields, including strategic planning and private equity . Other financial services fields, however, may no longer consider an MBA an entry-level degree. Each company will have its own requirements for different positions. But MBAs can certainly help distinguish candidates.

It is not uncommon to gain professional experience before applying to an MBA program. Many programs require a work resumé and demonstration of real world experience prior to joining the program. Other programs may be suitable for candidates straight out of college.

MBA programs will vary between disciplines, specialties, and schools. It is highly likely that most MBA candidates will be able to find an educational solution that works with their schedule, interests, and time commitment restraints.

Two-Year Full-Time

One of the most common type of MBA program involves a two-year commitment during which candidates attend school full time. During the first year of the program, MBA candidates may learn fundamental business skills such as strategy or communication. It's normal for candidates to choose more specific electives during the program's second year.

Although it requires a substantial amount of time, a two-year program allows candidates to pursue an internship between the years. The longer duration is also intended to help foster relationships between classmates and give candidates more time to absorb materials.

One-Year Full-Time

Accelerated programs crunch a two-year program into a single year. Better for candidates that don't want to spend too much time away from work, this type of MBA program is more intensive, faster paced, and often must sacrifice content quantity.

During a one-year full-time MBA program, candidates may still learn general business skills while selecting specialized electives. However, less time may be dedicated to either group due to the condensed nature of the coursework. One-year programs are often chosen by students trying to accelerate their current career paths as opposed to jumping to different ones.

Students not looking to leave work and willing to attend school for a longer time may pursue a part-time MBA program. This type of program often offers greater flexibility related to how many courses can be taken at once and how quickly a student must move through the program.

Part-time programs may be more favorable for candidates wanting to study at their own pace. In addition, part-time programs may be better suited based on lifestyle demands (e.g., a single parent may only be able to attend classes during a certain time of the day). Part-time programs may offer the flexibility of evening or weekend classes, allowing candidates to balance part-time, freelance, or gig economy work.

One type of MBA program that overlaps with the options above is an online MBA. Often a two-year, one-year, or part-time choice, an online MBA allows students to attend school remotely.

This type of MBA program grants candidates even greater flexibility concerning when they take classes and how they attend school. Online programs may also have different approaches to fostering collaboration compared to in-person programs.

International

Some MBA programs focus on global operations. Candidates interested in a wider focus and who want to branch out from just domestic companies or segments of a company might choose an international program.

An international MBA can help candidates build an international network and develop opportunities around the world. International MBA candidates may be more diverse than traditional or domestic MBAs, especially if the international MBA offers online classes. In addition, international MBA programs may be better suited to candidates preparing to work in a multinational corporation .

Specialized MBA programs are also available for students whose lives and careers do not permit them to attend school full time.

For example, executive MBA programs are designed for working professionals hoping to add to their credentials and qualifications. These courses of study typically involve classes at night and on weekends. Some also may require short residencies of intensive coursework.

Executive MBA programs are typically only open to candidates who already have substantial professional experience. Thus, they tend to focus on more advanced topics such as leadership development.

Specialized

While MBA candidates can focus on one of the core disciplines of the degree, such as management or finance, many MBA programs allow students to concentrate in specific industries. For example, an MBA student might specialize in sports management, entrepreneurship, the entertainment business, or healthcare management.

Even within a management specialty, MBA programs can allow for a concentration on information technology, hospitality, education, or criminal justice. Some MBA programs team up with various professional healthcare programs, such as nursing schools, to offer joint degrees.

MBA programs have different length of study requirements. For example, a degree at Franklin University requires 36-60 credit hours, while the University of Nebraska Omaha program is comprised of 33 credit hours.

The most prestigious MBA programs are nicknamed "M7 MBA Programs". They are offered by these schools:

Harvard Business School.
Stanford Graduate School of Business
MIT Sloan School of Management
Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management
University of Chicago's Booth School of Business
Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania
Columbia Business School

Acceptance by an M7 school is considered more difficult than acceptance by non-M7 schools. In addition, tuition is substantially higher at M7 schools, though financial assistance is usually available in the form of financial aid, fellowships, or sponsorships.

Broadly speaking, an MBA gives degree holders two uses: accelerated advancement in the career they are already pursuing or a strong pivot in a new direction with a newfound skillset.

The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania communicates the following benefits and uses of an MBA to its prospective candidates:

Greater Awareness of a Global Market. Candidates can use their MBA to better understand business taking place in different areas of the world.
Improved Communication Skills. MBA candidates often must communicate with other professionals, write research papers, and give formal presentations. They can use their coursework to improve their ability to connect with others and build relationships.
Expanded Professional Network. Meeting others, forging relationships, and building a network are central benefits of an MBA program. In addition to the knowledge obtained, the MBA program can connect candidates with their peers for mutual long-term benefits. Through formal or informal networking , you can exchange information or ideas with like-minded individuals.
Better Job Opportunities. MBA candidates are often more desirable than other job candidates based on their proven skillset and dedication to their profession. In addition, advancement opportunities may be more available to those with an MBA compared to those without the degree.
Better Time Management. MBA candidates may have to juggle school, work, family, and life obligations. An often overlooked use of an MBA program is the soft skill practice of managing priorities, meeting deadlines, and organizing one's time to meet all expectations.

Over the past two decades, a growing number of Americans have prioritized higher education. In 2021, 24.1 million U.S. citizens age 25 and over obtained a master's degree (not necessarily an MBA). That's more than eight million citizens since 2011.

Candidate Requirements

Every MBA program will have different requirements. More prestigious programs or schools will have more competition, and these programs will often require more of candidates before accepting them into the school.

The following list is taken from the University of Washington Bothell's MBA program admission requirements:

Two or more years of full-time, professional-level work experience
Two (or more) short application essays
Two professional references
Official four-year Bachelor's degree transcript
Demonstration of English Language Proficiency (program and candidate dependent)
Minimum 3.0-grade point average for the past 90 quarter credits or 60-semester credits
Interview with admissions committee before acceptance or decision

Some programs may require submission of a GMAT/GRE score . Other programs, like UW-Bothell, may waive the requirement if certain criteria are met.

As programs offer different services and benefits, the cost of an MBA will vary widely between program or school. Top-tier MBA programs will often be more expensive than local, smaller options.

For the 2023-2024 academic year, the first-year budget for the Wharton MBA program was $124,476. This includes $87,370 for tuition, $26,028 for room and board, $6,868 for books and supplies, and $4,210 for health insurance . Wharton offers many Fellowship Programs to alleviate the financial burden of the program.

Other two-year, full-time programs may have similar expenses; the two-year program at the University of Chicago costs $161,922 in tuition alone for the class of 2025.

Shorter-term or online programs may be substantially cheaper. For example, an online MBA at the Eller College of Management through the University of Arizona has a tuition cost $56,250 as of February 2024. The program is promoted as completable in as little as 14 months.

Salary Benefits

Those with an MBA often have greater skills, capabilities, and professional competency that can lead to a more successful career. Though an MBA involves a material expense, this cost often can be recovered over time through high-paying employment.

According to Glassdoor, as of October 2023, those with an MBA received an average annual compensation package of over $119,000. Salary historically has been skewed towards degree holders with experience. Individuals with one year or less of experience earned over $77,000 per year, while individuals with greater than 15 years of experience earned more than $139,000.

MBA holders often make substantially more than undergraduate business majors. The Raymond A. Mason School of Business at William & Mary reports that an MBA holder's salary was as much as $20,000 a year more than that of a holder of a bachelor's degree.

What Does MBA Mean?

MBA stands for Master of Business Administration. An MBA is a degree that provides advanced and thorough training in business principles and leadership skills. MBA recipients obtain this postgraduate degree to enhance their marketability as a professional.

What Is the Salary of an MBA?

As of February 2024, an MBA earns an estimated total pay of over $136,174 per year in the U.S. Pay is widely contingent on the industry, company, and underlying position occupied by the degree holder. For example, the same salary data indicate that most total pay packages range between $102,000 to $191,000 per year. Of course some MBAs are paid amounts below this range and some can earn much more.

What Is an MBA Good for?

An MBA serves two primary purposes. First, business professionals who obtain an MBA undergo a rigorous education that improves their skillsets. Second, MBA degree holders can be highly desired by employers. The MBA meaning can be an advantage during job searches and often results in higher pay.

What Are the Disadvantages of an MBA?

Obtaining an MBA takes money, time, and effort. Candidates may find it demanding to compile a resumé impressive enough to be accepted into their goal program. MBA programs may also be expensive. MBA candidates may have to scale back or step away from work as they pursue their degree. Though an MBA carries substantial long-term value, there are several shorter-term hurdles a candidate must overcome.

A Master of Business Administration degree can be a boon to individuals on business or investment management career paths. The MBA degree distinguishes those awarded it due to the aptitude, study, and training it requires. The MBA meaning can confer a special quality on holders of the degree that sets them apart from others.

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10 Best 10-Month Online Masters Degree Programs

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: May 6, 2024 , Reading time: 11 minutes

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The demand for accelerated online master’s degree programs, particularly programs with 6-month to 9-month time-to-degree, has been on the rise. These rigorous, fast-paced, and intensive programs offer ambitious professionals the opportunity to earn their master’s degrees in a shorter period and, thus, take advantage of career advancement opportunities faster, better, and sooner. However, not everybody is cut out for success in these accelerated programs either.

Reasons For and Considerations When Earning an Online Accelerated Master’s Degree

Earning an accelerated master’s degree online has its rewards and challenges that must be carefully considered before enrolling in your chosen program.

Time efficiency

You can earn your master’s degree in 6-9 months – or the case of our list, in 10 months – instead of the usual 2-3 years for a traditional master’s degree. Your time can be spent on pursuing other personal and professional interests, particularly on building your career.

Cost savings

Since you’re not spending money on transportation, thanks to online classes, you can save money, too. Most online programs also have more affordable tuition and fees, as well as offer financial aid for online students.

Intensive learning

The fast-paced, rigorous, and intensive coursework prepares students for the challenging demands of the real world, too. You will develop more effective time management, stress management, and organization skills because the accelerated coursework demands them. You can apply these skills to your work and life, too.

With a shorter time-to-degree, you have an edge over your competitors for leadership positions, too. Think of it as getting on the career advancement track faster.

However, you have to be aware of the challenges of being in an accelerated master’s degree online program. The condensed curriculum and accelerated pace aren’t for the faint of heart and intellect, and these can result in increased stress and compromised health. Your work-life balance will also be negatively affected.

The good news: These accelerated online master’s degree programs are still popular, meaning thousands of students have survived them and earned their graduate degrees – and you can, too.

The Best Accelerated Online Master’s Degree Programs

The accelerated online master’s degree programs have an estimated time-to-completion of 10 months, the fastest we can find. Keep in mind, nonetheless, that you can coordinate with the admissions officers and program coordinators of the online programs you’re interested in for a shorter duration, say, nine months. But be mindful of the increased demands on your time, energy, and determination associated with fast-paced, intensive coursework in an uber-accelerated program.

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Edinburg, Texas

UTRGV offers three online accelerated master’s degree programs in the field of education.

Mode of Delivery: Fully online
Estimated Program Length: 10 months
Number of Credits: 30
Cost per Credit: $458.33

Applicants with and without relevant teaching experience can apply to the Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction Specialization in Elementary Math and Science Education program. Once admitted, students prepare for effective leadership in elementary classroom settings, particularly in the education of elementary school students.

However, graduates can also pursue successful careers as instructional coordinators, curriculum specialists, and educational consultants, among others, in the education and training sector.

The intensive curriculum aligns with the standards set by the Texas Regional Collaborative in Science and Math, UTRGV’s collaborative partner in educator development initiatives. Students gain the knowledge, skills, and competencies in elementary math and science education pedagogy and research through 7-week courses.

Mode of Delivery: Online courses and field-based learning

Offered by the Department of Organization and School Leadership, the Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration prepares students for challenging leadership roles in colleges and universities. These include large research universities, community colleges, and technical-vocational colleges, as well as minority-serving institutions. Graduates are qualified for leadership positions like admissions officers, academic coordinators, and administrative services managers, among other administrative jobs.

Students prepare for successful careers through intensive didactic courses and hands-on, field-based learning experiences. The program emphasizes social justice in its courses.

The Master of Education in Educational Leadership program enables students to earn both a master’s degree and a principal certification, which will boost their career advancement prospects. Students develop their cultural sensitivity and awareness that, in turn, strengthen their leadership competencies in diverse teaching and learning environments. Note that the program emphasizes teaching English as a second language learners.

Students also develop their management competencies with practical applications in diverse education and non-education settings. Graduates possess competitive competencies essential for leadership positions in K-12 schools, colleges and universities, and training facilities.

Courses include Data Management for School Improvement, Curriculum Leadership for School Improvement, and Instructional Leadership and Supervision.

Western Governors University

Millcreek, Utah

Mode of Delivery: Fully online
Number of Courses: 12
Tuition per Six-month Term: $3,975

WGU uses a competency model in its Master of Education in Education Technology and Instructional Design program. You will work with your program mentor in creating your personalized degree plan, complete each course one at a time, and progress at your own pace. As soon as you have mastered the content in each course, you can take the assessment and move to the next course if you passed the previous course.

Courses include Foundations of Learning Design, Learning Experience Design Foundations, Assessment and Learning Analytics, and Learning Technology. The challenging curriculum emphasizes critical thinking skills, design thinking, and universal accessibility.

Students choose from two tracks – Adult Learner and K-12 – but can also complete both tracks.

Louisiana State University

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Mode of Delivery: Online
Number of Credits: 36
Cost per Credit: $1,110

The AACSB-accredited Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at LSU features multiple start dates every year. Students can choose from these start dates based on their convenience but must apply themselves to the challenging coursework to earn the degree in less than a year. Applicants don’t have to present their GMAT/GRE scores, but their admission will depend on selective criteria, such as work experience and leadership potential.

Aside from being ideal for working professionals, thanks to flexible schedules and convenient online access, it’s an affordable program, too. Students in LSU’s online MBA programs pay about 50% less tuition than in other online degree programs.

Specializations offered include Healthcare Management, Emerging Technology, and Data Analytics.

Northern Kentucky University

Highland Heights, Kentucky

NKU’s accelerated online master’s degree programs are characterized by their affordability, quality, and accessibility.

Estimated Program Length: 10 months
Total Tuition: $15,630

Offered by the AACSB-accredited Haile College of Business, the Master of Accountancy Professional Track program prepares students for success in the CPA exam. Applicants should ideally possess an undergraduate degree in accounting or an undergraduate accounting background to be considered for admission.

NKU, in partnership with Becker Professional Education, developed the program’s rigorous curriculum based on the CPA exam’s financial and regulation sections. Students build their knowledge and skills in accounting analytics, taxation, financial accounting and auditing, and ethics, among other competencies. The coursework also covers tax research, including its methodology, sources, and analysis.

Total Tuition: $20,670

Offered at the Salmon P. Chase College of Law, the Master of Legal Studies in Digital Law and Technology program, explores the intersection of law and technology in modern society. The diverse student body consists of business leaders, entrepreneurs, and employees from law firms, computer security companies, and government agencies, among other organizations. Their competent and credentialed professors teach the on-campus courses, too, meaning the online courses are just as challenging.

Students gain a comprehensive understanding of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, digital crimes, and digital commerce, as well as the risks, challenges and rewards associated with their use and presence in modern society. With such extensive coursework, graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles like legal consultants, cybersecurity executives, and compliance officers.

Gardner Webb University

Boiling Springs, North Carolina

Gardner–Webb, a nationally-ranked private Christian liberal arts university, offers two accelerated online master’s degree programs notable for their quality, affordability, and flexibility.

Cost per Credit: $665

The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program requires its students to complete two courses every eight weeks, which, in turn, allows for an accelerated time-to-completion. Professors can provide personalized attention to their students, thanks to small class sizes, and students can rely on student support services for their efficiency in responding to their concerns.

The extensive curriculum covers the knowledge, skills and competencies that aspiring business leaders should acquire during their MBA studies. The courses include managerial accounting, economics and finance, organizational behavior, and entrepreneurial management, as well as business law and ethics.

Students are provided with opportunities to apply their didactic learning in real-world applications, too. Such is their excellent business education that graduates have become corporate executive officers, successful entrepreneurs, and healthcare administrators, among other leadership positions.

Number of Credits : 36
Cost: $19,000

The Master of Public Administration program is an outstanding training ground for aspiring and current public administrators at the federal, state and local levels, as well as in nonprofit organizations. Students benefit from the small class sizes – the maximum class size is 20 students – including personalized attention from their professors and effective access to student support services.

The comprehensive curriculum covers topics in leadership, law and management in public administration, public budgeting and fiscal administration, and public policy analysis and evaluation. Students also develop their competencies in grant research and writing, as well as finding funding sources. The program culminates in a capstone preparation course and a capstone course in thesis proposal.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Mode of Delivery: Blended
Estimated Program Length: 5 months
Overall Cost: $1,200

The Blended Master of Engineering in Logistics and Supply Chain Management is a micromasters program offered at the Zaragoza Logistics Center (ZLC), a research and educational institute with a longstanding affiliation with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and the University of Zaragoza (UZ) in Spain.

Students earn the MITx MicroMasters credential by completing five online courses and passing a proctored comprehensive exam, all of which are related to supply chain management. If you pass, you can apply for the full master’s degree at ZLC. You will also spend three weeks at MIT.

Applicants with or without an engineering degree can apply but must demonstrate exceptional analytical thinking skills. Admissions officers give significant weight to relevant work experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are accelerated master’s degree online programs.

These are graduate degree programs with a condensed curriculum completed in an accelerated format that, in turn, allows students to earn their master’s degrees in a shorter time frame.

Can you apply to an accelerated Master’s online program if your Bachelor’s degree is in a different field?

Yes, but you may be required to complete prerequisite courses.

Are there support services available to students in online accelerated Master’s programs?

Yes, and these include admissions and academic counseling, access to library resources, and IT assistance.

Can you transfer credits to an accelerated online Master’s degree program?

Yes, you can, but it will depend on the program. Transfer credits can be in the form of graduate-level credits from previous coursework, relevant professional work experience, military service and training, and professional credentials.

Are there opportunities for internships, research, or practical experience in accelerated Master’s degree online programs?

Yes, but these are uncommon because of the accelerated pace.

Additional Resources:

New and Unique Grad Degrees That Prepare You for an Interesting Career
Highest Paying Design Jobs and Salaries
What are the differences between an Accelerated and a Non-Accelerated MBA?
Best Grad Schools in the U.S.

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What is a Master of Studies in Law? Explore the George Washington University Law School MSL

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You don’t have to be a lawyer to earn a living understanding and applying the law. Many professions require — or benefit significantly from — a thorough understanding of how the law impacts an industry or institution. The Master of Studies in Law (MSL), a graduate-level law degree designed for non-lawyers, can prepare you for a career interpreting and navigating legal situations.

You can earn an MSL 100% online from the George Washington University Law School (GW Law); you also have the option to take courses on-campus. The program offers specializations online in three areas: government procurement law, national security and cybersecurity law, and government procurement and cybersecurity law. The university’s location in the heart of Washington, D.C. enables students to benefit from access to the center of national legal and political activity — without ever having to leave their hometowns.

Gain Legal Expertise to Propel Your Career

Choose from three msl concentrations at gw law.

If you aspire to a career engaging with the law, you may be wondering whether a Master of Studies in Law is the right degree for you. How does the MSL differ from the Juris Doctor (JD), the law degree pursued by aspiring attorneys? What careers does each degree facilitate? This article explores those questions to help you decide which option better suits your career goals.

Master of Studies in Law vs. Juris Doctor: Decoding the Differences

A Master of Studies in Law is a master’s-level graduate degree in law and legal systems. A Juris Doctor is a terminal degree at the doctoral level that qualifies recipients to work in the courts as lawyers and judges. Admissions requirements, coursework, and career opportunities for the degrees differ substantially.

Applicants to GW’s MSL program must hold a bachelor’s degree and three to five years of professional experience relevant to the specialization they choose to pursue. Acceptance into a JD program requires a bachelor’s degree and an acceptable score on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) .

Coursework in the degree programs overlaps somewhat, but the JD is undoubtedly the more comprehensive and detailed of the two. GW’s MSL program requires 24 credit hours of coursework, which can be completed in as few as 12 months (for full-time students). A JD requires 80 credit hours and includes a rigorous first-year law student curriculum, with courses such as Torts, Property, and Contracts. Full-time JD students typically take three years to complete their degrees, after which they must pass their state’s bar exam.

Your professional goals will dictate which degree you choose. JD graduates are trained to practice law (after successfully passing a state or DC bar examination); they typically pursue careers as lawyers, judges and legal scholars. An MSL can be helpful in professions in such varied fields as government, business, finance, real estate, court administration, mediation, insurance, policy, and nongovernmental organizations. Practically every field intersects with the law, creating career opportunities for MSL degree holders.

What Will You Learn in MSL Programs?

Graduates of George Washington University’s Master of Studies in Law are prepared to communicate with lawyers and competently address industry compliance and regulatory issues. Students pursue the specialization most compatible with their current professional experience:

Government Procurement Law examines how procurement systems operate and the laws and regulations that govern them in the U.S. and abroad. Classwork includes anti-corruption, intellectual property and procurement reform.
National Security & Cybersecurity Law thoroughly examines legal and policy issues surrounding national security, cybersecurity, AI, big data and new technologies. Classes cover internet law, foreign access to U.S. technology, and artificial intelligence law.
Government Procurement & Cybersecurity Law prepares professionals to address the rising demand for cybersecurity legal expertise in government procurement law. Topics include cybersecurity law and technology, consumer privacy and data protection, and government procurement of intellectual property.

In all fields, the MSL degree prepares graduates to address challenges from a legal perspective, communicate with lawyers and non-lawyers alike, and assess the legal ramifications of corporate and institutional issues.

Career Pathways with a Master of Studies in Law

An MSL can be especially beneficial for people who work in highly regulated fields, such as government, healthcare, education, nonprofits, manufacturing and finance. Anyone who communicates frequently with lawyers can also benefit from an MSL. Graduates of GW’s MSL program have gone on to work for various employers, including:

Department of Defense
Department of Homeland Security
General Dynamics
General Services Administration (GSA)
Lockheed Martin
Northrop Grumman

Is an MSL the Right Fit for Your Professional Goals?

The GW Law online MSL serves non-lawyer professionals whose work requires a detailed knowledge of the law. An MSL can benefit compliance officers, consultants, government managers, intelligence community analysts, journalists, policy analysts, and procurement specialists, to name just a few.

George Washington University Law School’sMSL program provides the theoretical and practical knowledge necessary to apply the law to today’s organizational legal challenges. Located in our nation’s capital with flexible options to attend from any location, GW Law’s MSL degree delivers a strong law curriculum, respected faculty experts, academic peers from across the globe and over 33,000 living alumni for networking, advice and career development.

If you are ready to explore the law and find your place within it, contact an admissions adviser to learn more about the MSL program or start your application .

Become a Source of Valued Legal Insight in Your Workplace

Learn to identify and address legal risks.

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Sharing some details will help us customize your experience. A bachelor’s degree is required to attend.

SPHHS to Launch Online Master of Health Administration Degree Program in Fall 2025

The University of Massachusetts Amherst School of Public Health and Health Sciences has recently been approved by the UMass Board of Trustees and the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education to offer a new Master of Health Administration program that will be available to students in fall 2025.

In their April 2024 meeting, the trustees approved a Master of Health Administration (MHA), an online degree program in the Department of Health Promotion and Policy. The part-time, online MHA program will be one of the few of its kind offered by a Massachusetts public university.

The curriculum is comprised of 40 credits including core courses in public health (health policy and management), management, strategic management, leadership, graduate seminars and a capstone experience that involves a service-learning case study with the student’s current or prospective place of employment.

Lawrence Pellegrini , director of the Online MPH in Public Health Practice Program and senior lecturer in health policy and management, says the program is designed to be completed in three years for individuals who want to further their education part-time while continuing to work.

“The degree is designed for working professionals looking to acquire needed skillsets to gain leadership positions within the healthcare field,” Pellegrini says. “The program is fully online and asynchronous which offers a great deal of flexibility for students to complete the degree while balancing other responsibilities.”

The program differs from a business school master’s program in health care administration or master’s in business administration because it is within the SPHHS and is public health focused.

“We’re a school of public health,” Pellegrini says. “A lot of the values that we're going to be installing in the context of our program are going to be very much public health-oriented, so there would be a lot of population-based approaches to healthcare innovation.”

Graduates would be prepared for roles as healthcare administrators across industry sectors in businesses, educational institutions, government agencies, non-profit groups, community wellness programs, residential healthcare facilities, hospitals and clinical settings.

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Graduation 2024

Innovation awaits, welcome to the graduate school of arts & sciences at wake forest university.

The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences is one of the engines of creativity of Wake Forest University. Our hallmark is world-class scholarship fueled by an interdisciplinary, collaborative environment. Whether it is a traditional liberal arts approach, or cutting edge training in biomedical innovation, our small size (~800 students in total) ensures that you will have individual attention, tailored advising and research opportunities well-matched to your interests.

As a student here, you won’t just be a face in a crowd but part of a world-class team of researchers and educators working on important, world changing problems in their respective fields of knowledge. We’re dedicated to preparing the next generation of independent, intellectual leaders in their fields – whether it’s academics, industry or your own unique career path.

In the various pages on our site you’ll find that our programs span the full range of the liberal arts and sciences and the biomedical sciences. Currently, we house 30 master and doctoral disciplinary or interdisciplinary programs, and sponsor 12 programs jointly with the schools of Medicine (MD/PhD, MD/MS, MD/MA & MMS/PhD), Business (MBA/PhD), Divinity (MA/MDiv), and College (BS/BA & MA).

We welcome you – our current and prospective students, faculty and friends – to our website. We invite you to explore this website, and the our biomedical science graduate programs website , and let us know if you have any questions we can help answer.

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Numbers are the name of the game

Statistics have always been part of sports. But the digital age has altered the playing field, as organizations seek out those with the skills to use statistics as a tool for success. Combine sports marketing skills with the analysis and management of data when you earn a master’s in Applied Data Science with a specialization in Sports Analytics at IU Indianapolis.

Degrees & Courses
Applied Data Science Master's

Sports Analytics Specialization

Succeed with a winning combination.

Analytics is a crucial part of decision-making in amateur and professional athletics . Teams rely on those with the knowledge to interpret data and relate it to the world of athletics. (Nikhil Morar—pictured above—earned his Applied Data Science master's degree with a specialization in Sports Analytics from our program, and became Manager of Business Analytics & Strategy for the Los Angeles Lakers basketball franchise.)

Indianapolis boasts 10 professional sports teams. The city is home to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the National Federation of State High School Associations, and is widely considered the Capital of Amateur Sports.

By teaming up, the Luddy School in Indianapolis and the Department of Tourism, Event, and Sport Management draw on a unique mix of resources to offer B.S./M.S. in this exciting field.

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I was able to use machine learning and descriptive statistics to create actionable scouting reports focused on finding strategies that will give a team a better chance of winning. Rishi Chandran, M.S. '23 & Basketball Operations Seasonal Assistant with the Cleveland Cavaliers

Careers in Sports Analytics

Our sports analytics alumni work for some of the greatest teams in the NBA. On game day, it's all about the numbers!

Nikhil Morar

Manager of Business Analytics & Strategy for the Los Angeles Lakers

“Sports organizations need analytics experts who can turn data about their customers and teams into revenue-generating strategies."

Gabriel Wachowski

Research and Innovation Analyst for the Milwaukee Bucks

"Overall, the job has been absolutely incredible. I definitely feel like having my master’s was extremely important to being ready for the job that I have. My classes at IUPUI and my internship (with the Indiana Pacers) were both instrumental to where I am today."

A skill set tailored to sports

Students who earn a Master of Science in Applied Data Science with a specialization in Sports Analytics learn core skills in data analysis, data management and infrastructure, and client–server application development, and ethical and professional management of data projects.

Earn additional competencies in sports sales, the management of massive, high-throughput data stores, cloud computing, and the data life cycle.

Degree requirements

The plan of study is 30 credit hours. It includes six core courses and four specialization/ elective courses. Transfer students may be able to transfer in approved graduate courses from an accredited institution.

F-1 students can only take one online course per semester. They must take a minimum of 8 credit hours per semester; the exception being in their final semester. These limitations apply to fall and spring semesters but not summer sessions.

Core Courses (18 credits)

INFO-H 501 Introduction to Data Science Programming
LIS-S 511 Database Design
INFO-H 510 Statistics for Data Science
INFO-H 515 Statistical Learning (Prerequisite: Graduate Statistics course)
INFO-H 516 Cloud Computing for Data Science (Prerequisites: Graduate Database course)
INFO-H 517 Visualization Design, Analysis, and Evaluation (Prerequisite: Programming experience)

Students may test out of LIS-S 511. Students do not receive credit toward their required 30 credit hours by testing out of a course. However, they may instead replace the course with a specialization course or approved elective.

Specialization + Elective Courses (12 credits)

Specialization Courses

TESM-T 562 Economics of Event Tourism (Fall)
TESM-T 582 Applied Sport Event Research (Spring)
TESM-T 598 Master’s Consulting Project (Summer)

Elective Courses

INFO-B 505 Informatics Project Management
INFO-H 518 Deep Learning Neural Networks
INFO-H 519 Natural Language Processing with Deep Learning
INFO-H 695 Thesis/Project in Applied Data Science (MS Thesis students only)
INFO-I 575 Informatics Research Design
INFO-I 595 Professional Internship
INFO-I 698 Research in Informatics (Independent Study)
INFO-P 502 Modeling Crisis
NEWM-N 510 Web Database Development

Thesis or Project

The Thesis/Project is available to highly motivated students ready to carry out publishable research. Students must prepare a prospectus and gain a commitment from a primary faculty advisor with research interests in data science by the end of the first semester. By the end of the second semester, students must complete a course on research design and methods (e.g., INFO-I 575 or LIS-S 506 ).

The thesis or project must be completed in two semesters or in a semester and summer. Thesis students register for a total of 6 credits and project students register for a total of 3–6 credits of INFO-H 695 Thesis/Project in Data Science . Students are required to prepare and defend a research proposal with a timeline of deliverables in addition to the thesis or project.

Plan of study for fall admissions

Fall year 1, spring year 1.

INFO-H 515 Statistical Learning
INFO-H 516 Cloud Computing for Data Science
INFO-H 517 Visualization Design, Analysis, and Evaluation
Sports Analytics Specialization or Elective Course

Summer Year 1 (Optional)

Fall year 2.

Sports Analytics Specialization or Elective Course (If not taken in Summer)

Plan of study for spring admissions

Spring year 2, ready to get started.

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Master of Theology

Build on your MDiv, MTS, or other approved theological degrees and engage deeply with your faith. The Master of Theology (ThM) is an advanced degree that gives you insights into a focused area of study and lays a strong foundation for future doctoral studies or a lifetime of spiritual learning and practice.

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At a glance.

January 15 – Final deadline – merit scholarship applicants, international applicants

April 15 – Final deadline – US citizens and residents

Is the Master of Theology for Me?

Already have an MDiv, MTS, or other theological graduate degree?
Want to immerse yourself in a focused area of study?
Feel called to prepare for advanced research and scholarship?

Building on the foundation of your previous theological graduate work, the ThM degree program deepens your intellectual engagement with your chosen area of interest and sharpens your research and scholarship skills. Whether you plan to pursue a career in research, ministry, or another field, you develop advanced competency to support a lifetime of learning and service.

What You’ll Study

As a ThM student, focus your coursework on one of five specializations, creating a program of study in consultation with your faculty advisor. A faculty advisor may approve you to take classes in other areas, but your primary focus is on your chosen specialization. In general, introductory-level courses do not count toward the ThM degree.

What You’ll Do

Choosing a specialization to match your specific career goals, you may dive into topics such as Biblical theology and history of religion to pastoral care and traditions of Christian worship. In addition to your coursework, you have the option of completing a thesis with the approval and support of an advisor.

Throughout your experience, you encounter a variety of theological voices and perspectives on campus and in the community. Coursework emphasizes the development of your own individual spiritual life and goals while preparing you with the leadership skills and academic preparation you need to thrive.

ThM Program Details

Specializations.

Choose an area of study from five specializations:

Biblical Studies
History and Ecumenics
Practical Theology*
Religion and Society

*To specialize in Practical Theology, you must have an MDiv degree.

Curriculum Components

The ThM degree program requires you to complete 24 credits of courses in your chosen specialization, although you may be able to take courses in other topics with your advisor’s approval. You may also fulfill three or six credits with an optional thesis.

Sample Courses

Reformed Theologies and Public Life
Pastoral Care and the Life Cycle
Holy Scripture and Modern Criticism
Philosophies of Practical Reason

Application Requirements

To qualify for admission, you need to have:

An undergraduate degree (typically a BA or BS) from a school accredited by one of the accrediting agencies recognized by our faculty
A Master of Divinity degree or first graduate theological degree providing equivalent theological background, such as the MTS from an approved institution, and evidence of aptitude for advanced theological study (the MDiv degree is required for admission to the specialization in Practical Theology)

To apply, please submit the following:

A completed admissions application
Unofficial transcripts from all postsecondary institutions previously attended
Three letters of recommendation: one pastoral endorsement, one academic, and one additional
Academic writing sample
Application fee of $50

Outcomes with a Master of Theology Degree

The Master of Theology degree program provides opportunities to specialize a professional pathway, shape advanced research skills, deepen spiritual practices, and engage the theological disciplines with uncommon depth through a rigorous curriculum. Complete the ThM program poised to pursue PhD studies or advance your career.

Many of our graduates go on to lead traditional congregations, while others lead new forms of ministry in the nonprofit sector, entrepreneurial space, and other vocations, such as education and government. Still others influence and inspire the next generation of church leaders by teaching and serving at institutions around the world.

In Their Own Words

Ben Immanuel

Take the next step beyond your first graduate theological degree and pursue advanced research in your chosen area of specialization. Request more information about the Master of Theology degree, schedule a visit, or apply today.

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Master's Degree in Social Work

Master of Social Work

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Master of Social Work Degree Program Overview

Purdue University Northwest’s Master of Social Work (MSW) program prepares you to be a competent, professional and ethical advanced generalist social worker. Our program is structured to support social work leaders who are committed to anti-oppressive social work practice.

PNW’s MSW degree program is designed to meet the competencies identified by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). The MSW program has two options, traditional or advanced standing for students with a bachelor’s degree in social work.

For questions about PNW’s MSW, please email [email protected] .

Department of Behavioral Sciences

Why Should You Get Your MSW at PNW?

PNW graduates have a high success rate and a robust regional network. Our faculty maintains strong relationships with the community, including 100 local agencies that host internships for Social Work majors.

PNW has offered an accredited BASW program since Fall 2016 and is very excited to offer an MSW program for students to complete their undergraduate and graduate education and begin their journey to becoming licensed social workers.

MSW Program Mission

The mission of the Master of Social Work (MSW) program at Purdue University Northwest (PNW) is to prepare competent, professional and ethical advanced generalist social workers who are committed to anti-oppressive social work practice by advocating for social, racial, economic and environmental justice for all vulnerable populations.

Master of Social Work Degree Program Curriculum

With an emphasis on an anti-oppressive social work lens, our MSW program is a perfect combination of theoretical and practical knowledge to prepare you to work with individuals, groups, families, organizations and communities in this interconnected global world.

Full Course of Study to Be Published Summer 2025.

Traditional MSW Admissions Requirements

A cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 (based on a 4.0 system) with a Baccalaureate degree from accredited colleges and universities attended;
at least one course in psychology, sociology or anthropology;
at least one course in American history, American government or economics;
at least one course in human biology;
at least one course in statistics.

Fall Year I (15 hours)

Ethics, Professionalism and Self-Care

Spring Year I (12 hours)

Social Work Practice with Organizations and Communities

Fall Year II (15 hours)

Psychopathology and SW Assessment I

Spring Year II (15 hours)

Advances Social Policy Analysis and Advocacy

Advanced Standing Admissions Requirements

The Advanced Standing pathway is for students who received a Baccalaureate degree in Social Work (BSW) from a CSWE-accredited program with a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 (based on a 4.0 system).

Summer I (9 hours)

Advanced Generalist Anti-Oppressive Social Work

Fall I (12 Hours)

Clinical Interventions in Social Work

Spring I (15 Hours)

Social Work Capstone

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Master of Social Work Degree Program Highlights

Our MSW degree program is an applied, license-eligible, professional degree program. Faculty share real-world social work experience, model ethical behavior and engage in service alongside their students.

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Master of Social Work Degree Program Outcomes

Graduates of our MSW program are eligible for state licensure (LSW).

Master of Social Work Degree Program Career Paths

An MSW from PNW prepares you for a social work career in industries including:

Mental and deaddiction centers
Advocacy agencies

Master of Social Work Degree Program Accreditation

The MSW program at PNW is currently in the process of gaining pre-candidacy for accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education’s (CSWE) Board of Accreditation (BOA). Students admitted into the MSW program in Fall 2025 and later will be retroactively recognized as graduates from a CSWE-BOA accredited program as long as the program attains initial accreditation.

Meet the Faculty

Shreya Bhandari, Ph.D., LISW

Professor and MSW Director

Shreya Bhandari is a social work educator, practitioner and researcher. In addition to serving as a faculty member, she also leads the MSW program.

Chun Liu, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Social Work

Chun Liu is an Assistant Professor of Social Work in the Department of Behavioral Sciences. He currently teaches Social Work Research and Institutional Social Welfare.

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Earn a Master of Social Work at PNW

Whether you just completed your undergraduate studies or are looking to take the next step to advance your career, Purdue University Northwest’s master of social work degree program prepares you for a career in a wide range of social work industries.

Our graduate studies staff is ready to help you take the next step! Contact us at (219) 989-2257 or [email protected] to see how PNW can meet your needs.

Related Programs

Social Work

Psychology (MS)

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Education: Human Services Counseling

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