In America, higher education is represented by master’s and doctoral degree programs. These programs are different from undergraduate study and are considerably more prestigious and serious.
A master’s degree is an excellent choice for students who want to deepen their understanding of their field of study, explore new subjects after completing their bachelor’s degree, and improve their career prospects. The nature of master’s programs involves intensive study that builds on the knowledge a student gained in an undergraduate program or the experience he or she gained while working.
A master’s degree is the intermediate academic level between a bachelor’s degree and a doctoral degree. In America, the very notion of “higher education” refers primarily to the master’s degree.
At the master’s level students receive in-depth knowledge and a narrower specialization. Unlike the bachelor’s degree, where students take a variety of courses in addition to their core discipline, the master’s degree programs have a clear focus. For a master’s degree, in addition to classroom instruction, most students are also required to prepare a thesis in the form of a written paper or extended research project.
How long does a master’s degree program last in the United States?
Graduate programs vary in length. For example, a full 30-credit program can be completed in 12 months.
Most graduate programs last 2 years.
Some programs, which involve more than 60 credits, last 3 years or longer.
Why apply to a graduate program in the United States?
It is important for every student to get the answer to this question, both for themselves and for writing the motivation essay to be submitted when applying to a foreign university.
There are several main reasons to pursue a master’s program after a bachelor’s degree. Here’s what a master’s degree in the U.S. gives you:
- A master’s degree allows you to delve deeper into a subject of interest and explore it comprehensively.
- A master’s degree provides career development and advancement, as well as valuable professional skills and experience. For some careers, such as medicine or law, a master’s degree is a necessity.
- In addition, a master’s degree promotes successful employment in any country in the world and distinguishes a young professional from other applicants.
- For students who want to enjoy university life as long as possible, a master’s degree allows them to stay at an academic institution or even pursue a career in research and higher education.
- At the master’s level, you can not only continue the in-depth study of a subject you were exposed to at the undergraduate level, but also change your academic direction and choose a new specialization.
- Many graduate programs allow students to network with professionals and companies, and provide opportunities for internships and work experience. This allows students to gain a full understanding of their chosen field of study.