Master’s degrees are advanced academic degrees that indicate the bearer’s mastery of his or her area of specialty. They are typically classified as a Master’s of Arts (M.A.) or Master’s of Science (M.S.), although some master’s degrees bear more specific titles like Master’s of Business Administration (M.B.A.) or Master’s of Fine Arts (M.F.A.).
Accredited master’s degrees are degrees that have been certified as meeting the professional standards of their field. In America, the accreditation of educational institutions or individual degree programs is granted by private, non-governmental educational organizations.
How Long Does it Take to Earn an Accredited Master’s Degree?
The time it takes to earn an accredited master’s degree depends on the area of study and the student’s time commitment. On average, a master’s degree requires two years of additional schooling after the completion of a bachelor’s degree program.
What Are the Benefits of Earning an Accredited Master’s Degree?
When making the decision to enter a master’s degree program, many students wonder whether the additional time and money will pay off in their careers. Some of the benefits enjoyed by graduates of accredited master’s degree programs are:
- Higher Earnings
It is a well-known fact that college graduates earn more money over a lifetime than high school graduates without a bachelor’s degree. Investing the time and money to earn a master’s degree pays even larger dividends in the long run: the U.S. Census Bureau reports that individuals with master’s degrees can expect to earn $2.4 million over their working lifetimes. In contrast, individuals with only bachelor’s degrees earn an average of $2.1 million over their working lifetimes. People with only a high school education can expect to earn an average lifetime total of $1.2 million. - Low Unemployment
Graduates of accredited master’s degree programs also enjoy a far lower rate of unemployment than individuals with lower education levels. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2009 unemployment rate for adults with master’s degrees was 3.9 percent. When comparing this to an unemployment rate of 5.2 percent for bachelor’s degree holders and 9.7 percent for high school graduates, it is easy to see the employment benefits of earning a master’s degree. - Greater Job Satisfaction
Professionals with master’s degrees tend to achieve higher positions in their fields and have a distinct edge over job applicants without an advanced degree. In an increasingly competitive job market, employers are more likely to hire an applicant with a demonstrated mastery of his or her field. - Improved Quality of Life
Master’s degree earners report a higher level of personal health and tend to be more active in civic and social organizations. Their children tend to achieve a higher level of education than children of people without master’s degrees. Overall, earning a master’s degree can contribute to better quality of life for the individual as well as his or her family and even the community at large.