The number of Americans that hold Master’s degrees and information about various Master’s degrees.

A Master’s degree is a graduate level college degree that is given to students who have demonstrated a mastery of an academic or professional field of study. About six percent of Americans have achieved a Master’s degree according to a survey that was conducted by the Census Bureau in 2005. People with this degree are skilled in analysis and critical thinking and have an advanced level of specialized knowledge.

Most Master’s degrees are designated as Master of Arts degrees or Master of Science degrees. These degree programs require completion of graduate level courses. Some programs also require the completion of research in an academic specialty. Additional programs require completion of a written dissertation on a complex topic.

Master’s degree programs are open to students who successfully pass program admissions requirements. Most Master’s degree programs require completion of an accredited bachelor’s degree with a high academic grade point average. Some Master’s programs require work experience in a specific field of study. Most Master’s programs are one to two years in length.

Some doctoral degree programs require completion of a Master’s degree prior to enrollment. Depending on the field of study, some doctoral programs allow a student to skip a Master’s degree and start working on a doctoral degree immediately after a bachelor’s degree is earned.

Graduate degrees are necessary for people who want to teach undergraduates at many universities. Those who attain higher level teaching positions often earn a doctoral degree. Master’s degrees in education are held by many teachers in public school systems and in private schools.

The Master’s in Business Administration degree, or MBA degree, is one of the most popular graduate degrees. This degree program teaches students many of the skills that are needed in order to run a business or work in a management position. Unlike many other Master’s degree programs, MBA programs are sometimes offered as part time evening programs for students who work during the day.

Master of Arts degrees are offered for students who are interested in many traditional liberal arts fields. Master’s in liberal arts degrees are earned by many writers, historians, and others who have an interest in modern culture. Those who work in the social sciences often pursue liberal arts degrees.

People who want to work in management positions in government and nonprofit organizations can earn a Master’s in Public Administration degree. This degree program teaches students about public policy making. Lobbyists also benefit from a public administration degree.

Master of Science degree programs train future scientists. Students in science programs conduct important research and aid in many scientific breakthroughs. Graduate students at many universities are working on research to fight diseases, learn more about the universe, and harness new kinds of energy.

Master’s degrees in engineering programs give students the skills that they need to make better computers, better computer software, better chemicals, and better electrical products. Engineers take scientific theories and apply them to products that can be used by people. Engineering programs also offer part time evening programs for students who work during the day.

Many Master’s degrees are earned in health related fields. Master’s degree programs in nursing prepare nurses for more responsible nursing positions. Pharmacists and social workers also gain the training that they need in order to be successful by earning Master’s degrees in their fields. Masters programs in public health and health administration prepare future managers of hospitals and health care organizations.

There are many more Master’s degree programs that prepare students for successful and exciting careers. Grants, fellowships, and scholarships are available to some Master’s program students. Other students are able to get financial aid through their employers or through student loans. Master’s degree programs will continue to expand into more diverse areas of study as demand for research and advanced knowledge grows.