So that you can become familiar, we provide you with information so that you understand the acronyms, the specializations and the main options for your master’s degree abroad.
You may even be considering postgraduate studies abroad, but you are still not sure which course to choose or where it will take you in the future, whether personally, academically or professionally. To help you make that important decision, here are the main types of direct degrees after graduation that you will find at universities in the most popular study destinations in the world.
First of all, it is important to know that each of the types of courses listed below is usually represented by an acronym, as you will see. Knowing this will help you in your pursuit of a graduate degree abroad.
Master’s degrees abroad are often called “Master of…” based on a broader field of knowledge or the chosen faculty; the two most famous are Master of Arts and Master of Science. Next, in the title comes the specialization you choose, for example in Communication or Engineering: Master of Arts in Communication or Master of Science in Engineering.
1. Master of Arts (MA)
A Master of Arts, also known by the acronym MA, has specialization options in areas of the Arts, Social Sciences or Humanities, such as Languages, Linguistics, Communication, History, Geography or Education, among others. .
Typically, to be admitted to an MA, you will need a relevant Bachelor’s degree in Arts and Social Sciences related to the field you would like to specialize in.
The main method of learning in Master of Arts programs is through lectures, which abroad are largely based on class discussions between the professor and students about the topics covered. This is perhaps the main difference between Arts and Sciences master’s degrees, since the latter tend to be more practical than theoretical.
The average duration is two years and, although it is not a norm in all programs, the vast majority of master’s degrees abroad require the completion of research and the preparation of a thesis to defend the thesis.
It is also common to find Master of Fine Arts (MFA) options, with some more specific specializations than the MA, such as Visual Arts, Creative Writing, Art History, etc.
Options for universities with Master of Arts degrees:
- Florida International University, in the United States
- Claremont Graduate University, in the United States
- Leeds Beckett University, in the United Kingdom
- University of Lethbridge, Canada
2. Master of Science (MSc)
The Master of Sciences or MSc offers specializations in more scientific and mathematical areas, such as Computer Science, IT, Engineering, Economics, Mathematics, Public Health, among many others.
Lasting between one and two years (sometimes even longer), students focus especially on using quantitative research methodology to develop their thesis, although some master’s degrees also include face-to-face classes.
In addition, master’s students carry out laboratory work and apply scientific research, analysis and evaluation techniques. For these and other reasons, master’s degrees are best suited for those who are fluent in mathematics and have strong logical abilities.
Options for universities with Master of Science degrees:
- Flinders University, Australia
- Macquarie University in Australia
- The University of New Orleans in the United States
- Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
3. Research Master (MRes)
The Research Master or MRes, as its name suggests, is a research master’s degree and can be applied to any area of study. Its distinctive feature is that it is specifically driven by independent scientific research that will result in a final dissertation.
Although it can lead to different career paths, this is the most suitable option for those who want to build an academic or scientific career as a researcher. Therefore, this type of master’s degree is usually also the best basis for a doctorate (PhD).
Some universities, however, offer research-style MSc’s, so do your research very well and read course descriptions carefully when choosing your international postgraduate degree. There is not always a clear distinction between the types of master’s degrees available. If you need it, contact the universities directly to ask.
Options for universities with research master’s degrees:
- University of Chester, UK
- Aberystwyth University in the United Kingdom
- University College Cork in Ireland
- University of Nottingham Ningbo, China
4. Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Do you want to focus on business and entrepreneurship or start your own company? Then an MBA -Master of Business Administration- may be the right option for you. This qualification is widely recognized by the labor market around the world for preparing students with leadership, marketing, finance, accounting and other business management skills.
The main difference of the MBA with other master’s degrees is that it focuses on professional experience, both as an admission requirement and during the course, with different practical work and industry experience.
MBA University Options:
- Coventry University, UK
- Royal Roads University, in Canada
- Griffith University, Australia
- University of Birmingham, in the United States
5. Master in Management (MIM)
The Master in Management or MIM provides basic knowledge in economics, accounting and business. Unlike the MBA, a MIM only lasts one year and is usually a much cheaper course, which is often a deciding factor for many students.
Additionally, industry experience is usually not necessary to be admitted and the approach is more theoretical.
It is common to also find master’s degree options in international management.
Options for universities with management master’s degrees:
- The University of Winnipeg in Canada
- University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom
- EU Business School in Spain
6. Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
The Master of Philosophy or MPhil is an advanced postgraduate degree that involves only independent research and a dissertation project. This type of qualification is usually equated to a doctorate (PhD) due to the structure of the course and the absence of teaching modules.
Here, as in the case of the doctorate, the word “Philosophy” refers to its original meaning in Greek of “love of knowledge.” This means that your MPhil will give you greater and more specialized skill and mastery in a specific area.
To be admitted, you need a bachelor’s degree, but some universities may also require a prior master’s degree. Another common feature of the selection process is the presentation of a research proposal. This way, the university can also identify who would be the best advisor for their work.
Options for universities with Master of Philosophy degrees:
- James Cook University Australia
- University of Nottingham Malaysia, in Malaysia
- Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
- Keele University, UK.
