How Long Does it Take to Get a Master’s Degree?

Key Takeaways

• Typical completion time is 1–3 years, depending on the program, pace, and field of study.
• Full-time master’s programs usually take 12–24 months, while part-time programs may take longer.
• Accelerated programs allow some students to finish in just one year, especially in business or tech-related fields.
• Online master’s programs offer greater flexibility but vary in duration depending on format and course structure.
• UoPeople offers tuition-free, flexible online master’s degrees that can be completed at your own pace, helping you advance your career while balancing life commitments.

What is a Master’s Degree?

A master’s degree is a graduate-level academic credential that allows you to specialize in a specific field of study or professional practice. It goes beyond the foundational knowledge of a bachelor’s degree, offering more focused training, critical thinking, research skills, and hands-on experience.

Most master’s programs combine advanced coursework with either a thesis, a capstone project, or an internship component. They are designed to prepare you for leadership roles, deeper subject mastery, or a stepping stone to doctoral studies. Common types of master’s degrees include:

• Master of Arts (MA)
• Master of Science (MS)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Education (M.Ed.)
• Master of Public Health (MPH)

Whether you’re pursuing a new career path or building on your current one, a master’s degree offers the academic and practical training to help you stand out in a competitive job market.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Master’s Degree?

The time it takes to complete a master’s degree depends on several factors, including your program, field of study, enrollment status, and personal circumstances. On average:

• Full-time students typically finish in 1 to 2 years
• Part-time students may take 2 to 3 years or more
• Accelerated programs can sometimes be completed in 12 months

Fields such as business, education, and technology often offer flexible pacing options, including accelerated and part-time tracks. Research-intensive programs or those requiring internships may take longer to complete.

If you’re working while studying or managing other responsibilities, an online or part-time option like those at University of the People can help you progress toward your goals at a manageable pace.

Why Should You Consider Getting a Master’s Degree?

Pursuing a master’s degree can offer substantial rewards, both professionally and personally. For many students, it’s a way to boost earning potential, access advanced job roles, or transition into new fields. In competitive industries, a master’s can also set you apart by demonstrating a deeper level of expertise and commitment to your craft.

Beyond the career benefits, many learners pursue a master’s to deepen their understanding of a subject they love, contribute to meaningful research, or gain credentials that open doors to teaching, consulting, or leadership roles.

Practical application

A lot of careers require a graduate degree before practicing. During a master’s program, you build on the theoretical knowledge of a bachelor’s program to learn the practical application of subject matter.

The love of the subject

A huge reason why people continue to pursue education in a specific field is for the genuine love of a subject. When you are passionate about something, you are more likely to want to keep learning, and the academic and rigorous setting that comes with a master’s degree offers an unparalleled path to mastering a subject, no pun intended!

Better job opportunities

With more education comes more opportunity. Employers receive a ton of applications, and when they see you have a master’s degree, it provides a signal of your dedication, perseverance and ability to manage your time well. It also sets you apart from the sea of applicants who do not have a master’s degree.

Increased credibility

Tied to the better job opportunities comes the fact that a master’s degree increases your credibility. Not only does it mean you are determined and a hard worker, but it also means that you have increased knowledge on a subject matter and can offer insight to individuals and businesses that can benefit from your expertise.

Research opportunities

While undergraduate coursework may offer the chance to perform research, most master’s programs include research as cornerstone content. This is especially true of science-based master’s programs that often require lab work and research as part of the curriculum. Research opportunities allow you to further explore your field of interest, create findings that may have otherwise never been discovered, offer you the chance to get published, and overall, challenge your thinking and current understanding of subject matter.

Master’s Degree Requirements

The specific requirements for earning a master’s degree vary by institution, program type, and field of study. However, most programs share a core set of academic and administrative standards you’ll need to meet before graduation.

Here are the most common master’s degree requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree from an Accredited College: Most programs require a completed undergraduate degree as a baseline for admission, though some offer exceptions for equivalent experience.
• Minimum GPA Score: Schools often require a minimum undergraduate GPA (commonly 2.5–3.0) to ensure academic readiness.
• Complete Required Credit Hours: Most master’s degrees require between 30–60 credit hours of coursework, depending on the program.
• Thesis or Capstone Project: Many programs include a final project that demonstrates applied learning or original research in your field.

Comprehensive Exam or Defense: Some degrees require a written exam or oral defense to assess your mastery of the material before graduation

Can You Get a Master’s Degree Online?

Online master’s programs have become a popular and accessible option for students around the world. These programs offer the same academic rigor and credential recognition as traditional, on-campus degrees, with the added flexibility of studying from anywhere.

At University of the People, you can pursue fully online, tuition-free master’s programs in high-demand fields, including:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Education (M.Ed.)
• Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)

Designed for working professionals and students with busy schedules, UoPeople’s online format allows you to learn at your own pace, avoid relocation costs, and maintain full-time employment while earning your degree. All you need is a reliable internet connection and the motivation to succeed in a flexible, supportive learning environment.

Online degrees also allow for better work–life balance, making them an excellent choice for parents, caregivers, and international students seeking global opportunities without leaving their home country.

The Bottom Line

So, how long does it take to get a master’s degree? The answer varies, but most programs take between 1 and 3 years, depending on your pace, field, and format of study. Full-time students can often complete their degrees in under two years, while part-time learners may need more time to balance academics with work or personal commitments.

Whether you pursue your master’s online or on campus, part-time or full-time, the path you choose should reflect your professional goals, financial situation, and lifestyle. The good news is that with flexible options like those at University of the People, earning a master’s degree is more accessible than ever.

FAQs

How long does a typical master’s degree program take?

Most master’s programs take 1 to 2 years to complete for full-time students and 2 to 3 years for part-time students.

What’s the difference between full-time and part-time master’s programs?

Full-time students take a full course load and usually graduate faster, while part-time students take fewer courses per term, allowing for more flexibility but a longer timeline.

Can you complete a master’s degree in one year?

Yes, some accelerated programs, especially in business or technology, allow highly focused students to finish their degree in 12 months.

Do online master’s programs take longer than traditional ones?

Not necessarily. Online programs can be completed at the same pace—or even faster—than traditional programs, depending on the structure and your availability.

How many credit hours are required for most master’s?

Most master’s degrees require between 30 and 60 credit hours, depending on the field and institution.

What factors affect how long a master’s degree takes?

Program type, full-time vs. part-time enrollment, required internships or thesis work, transfer credits, and your personal schedule all influence completion time.

Are accelerated master’s degree programs worth the intensive schedule?

They can be, especially if you’re looking to fast-track your career. Just be sure you can handle the intensive workload and time commitment.

Can you work full-time while pursuing a master’s degree?

Yes. Many students successfully work full-time while studying part-time or online, especially through flexible programs like those offered by UoPeople.