In the United States, a master's degree comes between a bachelor's degree and a doctoral degree. There is no inherent difference between a Master of Science degree and a Master of Arts degree. Each institution decides whether to award an MS or MA degree, or both.
Many school districts provide pay increases to teachers who obtain master's degrees. A degree in educational administration is also typically required to obtain a job as principal or district administrator. It is also possible to get a job teaching at a college or university with a master's degree. A person with a bachelor's degree in a field other than education may teach in public schools by getting a master's degree.
Degree requirements vary among educational institutions, with most requiring that students complete between 12 and 15 classes. The majority of schools require the satisfactory completion of 36 class credits. There are schools, however, that offer all one-credit classes. Completion of either a thesis or a comprehensive examination is also typically required. A thesis is an extensive research paper. A comprehensive examination involves taking a written examination on the coursework.
Each college and university has its own curriculum. Most schools require that students take a set number of core classes. The rest of the requirements can be met through electives.
Those interested in becoming administrators have the option of taking an emphasis in administration and policy. Emphases are also usually offered in elementary and secondary education. Some schools offer an advanced teaching emphasis that allows students to intently study a particular area of interest.
Students can earn a Master of Science degree online. As long as the academic institution is accredited, the degree has as much merit as one earned from a traditional institution.