A master’s degree is a postgraduate academic award pursued after obtaining a bachelor’s degree. It provides specialized knowledge and skills in a particular field, enhancing career prospects and personal growth. Among the various types of master’s degrees, the Master of Arts (MA) holds a significant position, particularly in the realms of arts and humanities. Understanding “What Is Ma” is crucial for students considering advanced studies.
Decoding the MA Acronym
MA stands for Master of Arts. It’s one of the two most common types of master’s degrees, the other being the Master of Science (MS). Spotting “MA” after someone’s name indicates they’ve earned this specific postgraduate qualification.
Nicole Lounder, an admissions counselor at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) with extensive experience in education, emphasizes that MA degrees typically concentrate on subjects within the arts and humanities. “What I specifically like about Masters of Arts — probably why I have one — is because you really dive deep into humanities,” she explains. “You dive deeper into the different aspects of people’s thinking so that you can see things from a more holistic point of view.” This holistic perspective is a hallmark of MA programs.
Diverse MA Degree Options
The versatility of the MA degree is reflected in its wide array of specializations. Selecting the right MA program hinges on your individual academic background and professional aspirations. Pursuing a Master’s degree can significantly enhance your marketability and deepen your expertise in a chosen discipline. The job market is also showing increased demand for master’s degree holders, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting a 12.1% growth in employment for this group through 2033.*
Lounder notes that an MA degree often takes a broader, more research and writing-intensive approach compared to an MS degree. “There’s a lot more research and writing based in the Masters of Arts,” she said.
Examples of popular MA degrees include:
- MA in English: Focuses on literature, writing, and critical analysis, preparing graduates for careers in teaching, journalism, and publishing.
- MA in History: Explores historical events, trends, and methodologies, leading to opportunities in academia, museums, and archival work.
- MA in Psychology: Delves into human behavior and mental processes, opening doors to counseling, research, and human resources roles.
- MA in Communications: Covers various aspects of communication, including journalism, public relations, and media studies, suitable for careers in media, marketing, and corporate communications.
This list is not exhaustive; numerous other MA degrees cater to diverse interests and career paths.
BA vs. MA: Understanding the Difference
While both Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Master of Arts (MA) degrees focus on similar subject areas, the MA represents a more advanced level of study. Lounder emphasizes that the “better” choice depends on individual goals and educational progress.
A BA degree is a prerequisite for most MA programs. While not mandatory, a BA in a related field provides a solid foundation for MA-level studies. The key difference lies in the depth of content. A bachelor’s program offers a blend of general education and specialized courses, while a master’s program concentrates intensely on a specific area of study. Bachelor’s programs typically require 120 credits (around 40 courses), whereas master’s degrees range from 30 to 60 credits (10 to 20 courses).
Career aspirations also influence the choice between a BA and an MA. A bachelor’s degree prepares individuals for entry-level and mid-level positions, while a master’s degree enhances competitiveness and unlocks opportunities for management roles.
Learn more about the types of degree levels.
The Value Proposition of an MA Degree
The decision to pursue an MA degree is a personal one, but many graduates affirm its worth. Adanze Chukwuocha ’23G, a graduate of SNHU’s MA in Creative Writing program, attests to the transformative impact of her studies.
“With the experience I’ve gained, I’m just a better person, and I’m very, very thankful for that,” Chukwuocha says. “There are a lot of things I want to do, and I think this degree is a great next step on my journey.” She highlights the support and resources she received from instructors, which boosted her confidence in her career trajectory.
Financially, an MA degree can lead to higher earning potential. According to BLS data, individuals with a master’s degree earned a median weekly salary of $1,737 in 2023, compared to $1,493 for those with a bachelor’s degree.* This translates to a potential earnings increase of over $244 per week.
Selecting the Right Master’s Program
Given the wide spectrum of available programs, thorough research is essential to ensure the best fit for your goals. If you’re contemplating pursuing a master’s, explore the flexible options for getting a degree at your own pace.
“I would dig deep and ask — what part of the field do you like?” Lounder advises. “Do you want the tech base or do you want to go more towards the educational field or towards that communications field?”
Whether you opt for an MA, Master of Science (MS), or another type of master’s program, you’ll cultivate advanced skills and prepare for a fulfilling career.
Other master’s degree options include:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Education (MEd)
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
While specializations differ, all master’s programs offer unique advantages. Carefully consider your career aspirations, desired work environment, and program curriculum before making a decision. Reach out to an advisor for personalized guidance.
A degree can change your life. Find the SNHU master’s program that can best help you meet your goals.
*Cited job growth projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Actual salaries and/or earning potential may be the result of a combination of factors including, but not limited to: years of experience, industry of employment, geographic location, and worker skill.
Nicholas Patterson ’22 is a writer and alumnus of Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), where he earned his bachelor’s degree in English and creative writing. He is currently honing his craft further as he pursues an MFA in Creative Writing from SNHU. Connect with him on LinkedIn.
