Whether or not you should pursue a master’s degree after you earn your undergraduate degree is highly dependent on your field and career goals. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median weekly earnings of someone holding a master’s degree in 2021 was $1,574. In comparison, this is more than 17.9% higher than the $1,334 average median weekly salary earned by those with a bachelor’s degree. Bachelor’s degree and master’s degree programs differ in the number of credit hours required and their depth of content focus. Before pursuing a master’s degree, you must complete your bachelor’s degree. In your master’s degree program, you focus entirely on one area of study.
Unlike a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree narrows your focus to one particular area of study. If you earned undergraduate credits in the same field, such as business, you might achieve your master’s degree with fewer credits. Understanding the differences between a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree gives you an idea of how graduate programs build upon undergraduate study. It can also give you a sense of how long it might take you to finish each program and how each might fit into your long-term academic and career goals. Both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree can offer rewarding learning and career opportunities.
What is a General Studies Degree?
For example, a clinical social worker typically requires a master’s degree to become licensed. In 2021, social workers earned a median salary of $50,390, according to BLS. In 2021, the median annual salary for computer programmers was $93,000, according to BLS.
However, you may consider it advantageous to earn a master’s degree if it aligns with your personal goals and is required in your career field. Keep in mind some professions typically require you to have a master’s degree. As of 2021, about 14.4% of U.S. adults now hold an advanced degree, such as a master’s or doctorate, up from 8.6% in 2000. The time it takes to earn an MBA varies, and some programs are only 30 credits and can be completed in just one year. Generally, the difference between BA and BS is that a BA focuses on humanities while a BS emphasizes science and math.
Bachelor’s Degree
A BFA focuses on the fine arts, such as studio art, creative writing, drama or music. Finally, the BSN provides nurses with the opportunity to advance in their Что такое bsc field. Some graduate schools also offer a Master of Fine Arts (MFA), a terminal degree for those wishing to teach writing, studio art, or other fine arts.
- Before pursuing a master’s degree, you must complete your bachelor’s degree.
- Both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree can offer rewarding learning and career opportunities.
- Bachelor’s degree and master’s degree programs differ in the number of credit hours required and their depth of content focus.
- Unlike a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree narrows your focus to one particular area of study.
Founded in 1932, and online since 1995, we’ve helped countless students reach their goals with flexible, career-focused programs. Our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH is home to over 3,000 students, and we serve over 135,000 students online. Visit our about SNHU page to learn more about our mission, accreditations, leadership team, national recognitions and awards.
