* The degree: A Master's in Business Administration (MBA) will have completely different requirements than a Master's in Fine Arts (MFA) or a PhD in Physics.
* The university: Different universities have different curricula and requirements, even within the same field.
* The specialization: Even within a single degree program (e.g., a Master's in Biology), there might be different specializations (e.g., ecology, genetics) requiring different coursework.
Generally, graduate programs will require a core set of courses that provide foundational knowledge in the field, along with electives that allow for specialization. Many programs also include a thesis, dissertation, or capstone project as a requirement.
Common elements across many graduate programs might include:
* Core courses: These build a foundation in the subject matter. For example, a Master's in Engineering might have core courses in calculus, thermodynamics, and materials science.
* Elective courses: These allow students to specialize within their field of study.
* Research methods courses: Many programs require courses focusing on research design, data analysis, or other research-related skills.
* Comprehensive exams: Some programs require students to pass comprehensive exams covering the core material.
* Thesis/Dissertation/Capstone project: A significant research project demonstrating mastery of the field is a common requirement for many graduate degrees, especially at the doctoral level.
To know the specific requirements, you must consult the program description and course catalog of the specific university and program you are interested in. The information is usually available on the university's website.