Lowell NancyThere are two main types of graduate programs:
- academic master’s programs
- Graduate research programs
Academic graduate programs are much more structured. They consist mainly of lectures and seminars, and also involve thesis work.
Research programs, by contrast, focus on students’ independent work. They allow students to engage in longer research projects and involve significantly less classical classroom instruction.
In terms of format of instruction, there are the following programs:
- full-time master’s degree programs
- Graduate correspondence programs
- Graduate distance and online programs
If you have already studied the offerings of U.S. universities, you may have noticed that graduate programs in the U.S. are called “MA”, “MS”, etc. It depends on the type of program and the major.
Below we will tell you about the main types of master’s programs.
Master of Arts (MA)
This degree is usually awarded in disciplines that fall within the humanities and social sciences. For example, in communication, pedagogy, languages, linguistics, sociology, etc.
Master of Science (MS, MSc)
The degree is usually awarded to students majoring in the sciences, such as biology, chemistry, engineering, health, and statistics. Some subject areas, such as economics and social sciences, may fall under both the MA and MS degrees. Each institution decides for itself which degrees to award.
Master of Research (MRes)
MRes are designed for early career researchers. MRes have the strongest research component compared to the MA and MS programs. MRes degree programs give the best preparation for students who want to continue to doctoral studies or pursue a research career.
Master by Research (MPhil)
MPhil is a research-based degree that allows the student to focus in depth and independently on a specific topic to complete one large research project.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
The MBA degree is designed to professionally develop students’ knowledge and skills in business and management. MBA programs offer in-depth training in all business fields. Often these programs are designed for working professionals, with work experience being an important admissions requirement.
Master of Laws (LLM)
In most cases, students enter these programs with previous law school degrees. LLM programs offer students the opportunity to supplement their legal knowledge with specialized legal skills gained through legal research.
