* Master's degrees (MA, MS, MBA, MFA, etc.): Typically require one to two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree and demonstrate mastery of a subject area.
* Doctoral degrees (PhD, EdD, etc.): Signify the highest level of academic achievement and often involve significant original research culminating in a dissertation. These programs typically take several years to complete.
* Professional degrees (JD, MD, DDS, etc.): These are advanced degrees focused on specific professions, such as law, medicine, or dentistry, and often require extensive practical training in addition to coursework.
Graduate degrees are pursued for various reasons, including career advancement, specialized knowledge, research opportunities, and personal enrichment.