What Master’s Degree Should I Get? Top Options!

Whether you’ve just earned your bachelor’s or you are diving back into the higher education realm, it’s not easy to choose what master’s program you want to enroll in when there are so many types of master’s degrees. The question that permeates your mind is most likely, “What should I get my master’s in?”

 It’s too simple to get stuck in the stress of choosing your degree program, and without proper guidance, you may just decide not to try at all. Don’t worry. With the proper outline of how to choose the exact program that matches your goals, you will be running to the enrollment office in no time.    

So let’s jump right in so you can know the answer to your burning question: What master’s degree should I get? 

Benefits of a Master’s Degree

Students who pursue a master’s degree are setting themselves up for success. Here are the top three reasons you should consider continuing your education. 

Higher pay

Did you know that people who hold master’s degrees generally make more money than an undergraduate degree holder who works in the same field? As Indeed reports, “The earnings increase from the bachelor’s level to the master’s level is approximately 20%. Specifically, the median income for master’s degree holders is $77,844 per year, and the unemployment rate is 2%.”  

Advanced career opportunities 

More jobs than you’d probably think to require a master’s degree. Rather than be bound by a high school diploma or a bachelor’s degree, it’s best to pursue a masters that can open the doors to many more job fields. If you make the correct choice of the best master’s for you, you will be well on your way to having a successful career.

More job prospects

What separates job applicants more than anything is their level of education. People who earn a master’s degree stand out, and their resume is much more likely to make the top of the application stack.

Further your education 

 Even if your goal is not to earn a higher income or work in a field that requires a master’s, getting a master’s can still be worthwhile. Since there are so many types of master’s degrees, if you are interested in learning more about a specific subject there is sure to be a master degree program that expounds on your interest. And hey, if you end up getting a master’s degree that comes with additional benefits besides furthering your knowledge, that’s a huge bonus. 

What are the Types of Master’s Degrees?

Since there are so many different types of master’s degrees, it can get hard to keep track of them all. Let’s make it simple. 

Master of Arts

A Master of Arts degree is perfect for our literature and culture lovers. Delving deep into history, philosophy, art, and English, a Master of Arts is a fantastic degree that prepares students for a variety of jobs. With a Master of Arts degree, you can work as an educator, a graphic designer, and even a dance instructor! 

Master of Business Administration

If you are interested in furthering your business career, a Master of Business Administration is a great asset and will give you the knowledge you need to stand out in your profession. Exploring the complexities of finance, Human Resources, marketing, and much more, an MBA degree equips you with top-level knowledge so that you can move higher up on the professional ladder. 

Master of Science

For students who wish to go after a specific field in science, a Master of Science degree is a great option. With incredible, high-level courses in science and technology, students who earn a Master of Science can enter the engineering field and even work in biology. 

Master of Fine Arts

Were you a theater kid back in high school or simply enjoyed the Arts? If so, look no further than a Master of Fine Arts degree. Graduates of a Master of Fine Arts degree program often work in creative fields such as dance, writing, acting, and music. Whether you’re happiest performing on a stage or writing up a storm at your desk, a Master of Fine Arts is a great degree to pursue. 

Master of Education 

If you are a teacher and are interested in leveling up in your knowledge or wish to climb higher up the chain in the education world, it’s smart to look into the benefits of a Master of Education. With a focus on learning theory, classroom management, and psychology, a Master of Education will give you an even deeper understanding of how to be the most impactful and successful educator out there. 

Source: Pexels

Choosing the Right Master’s Degree for You 

Now that you have a better idea of which master’s degree is right for you, it’s time to sit and decide which exact degree is best. 

1. Determine Your “Why”

Let’s start at the very beginning. Think about what you want to get out of a master’s degree and what drove you to want to get one in the first place. Consider this carefully, and take the time to examine your skills and interests as well so that you can choose a degree that suits you best. 

2. Select from the Types of Degrees

The first thing to do is decide whether you’d like to continue on the path of your bachelor’s degree or pursue a completely different field of study. It’s important to note that if you change your degree path completely you may be required to take some prerequisites. You can choose to get a general or specific master’s degree. Choose your degree program wisely, and make sure to keep your goals at the front of your mind so you decide well. 

3. Research Programs (online/in-person, full or part-time, etc) 

Once you have chosen what master’s degree program you would like to enter, you have to decide what type of learning best suits your lifestyle. Let’s explain. If the idea of learning at home with total control over your schedule sounds appealing, then you should consider attending an online university. If on the other hand, you’d prefer learning in-person and like having a set schedule, then attending an on-campus degree program would suit you better. In some cases, such as a nursing program, courses are only offered in-person. It’s also important to research the university’s ratings so you make sure you choose the right school that can offer you the top education. 

4. Apply 

Now that you’ve put your time and effort into finding the best master’s degree program for yourself, here comes the relatively easy part. Find the application form for your dream master’s program, and make sure to be meticulous as you fill it out. There’s no time to be humble when you are applying for a master’s program. You should shine light on all your academic and personal accomplishments so that you can prove you’d be a great candidate for your chosen program. 

Source: Pexels 

What Jobs Require a Master’s Degree?

If you’re wondering  “what should I get my master’s degree in?” take a moment to check out what types of careers require it. Focusing on your career options first, it helps to limit your master’s degree choices.

• College professor
• Librarian
• Nurse anesthetist
• Social worker
• Mental health counselor
• Psychologist
• Epidemiologist
• Educational administrator
• Physical therapist
• Historian
• Archivist
• Physician assistant
• Urban planner
• Mathematician
• Sociologist
• Speech-language psychologist
• Museum curator

Wrapping Up 

At this point, you aren’t wondering, “what master’s degree should I get?” because you are now equipped with the necessary knowledge you need in order to choose the best master’s degree. 

With a master’s giving you a much higher likelihood of earning more money and advancing your career path, it’s easy to spot why so many undergraduate students wish to earn a master’s degree. In addition, having more skills in your field separates you from your competition, and you will stand out as a highly knowledgeable employee and individual. 

If you’re interested in earning your master’s degree online and at a tuition-free university, you can do so at the University of the People. Our accredited master’s programs span Business administration, Information Technology, and Education. All of our master’s degrees take place online, so you can learn wherever you want to and whenever you want to. The curricula have been designed to foster the skills you need to excel in the working world. Here’s all you need to know about how to enroll and what you can expect from the student experience.