A master's in social work (MSW) qualifies you for many counseling positions in private and public practice, and a master's degree in education is a necessary qualification for most teaching jobs, as well as school administration. Social work supervisor and guidance counselor positions typically require a master's degree. Some masters-level jobs in counseling and education also require certification. A master's degree in administration is required for director and supervisory-level positions at many public and private human services organizations. And to become a librarian, you'll need a master's in library science.
A master's in business administration qualifies you for a variety of management-level positions in the corporate world; it's the degree typically held by executives who lead departments or divisions and one day may become chief executive officers, chief financial officers or company directors. Marketing and human resources positions usually require an MBA.
A master's degree opens the door to administrative positions in nursing and to certification as an occupational or vocational therapist. Many technical and laboratory jobs within the medical field also require a master's degree, as do administrative and supervisory jobs in hospitals, nursing homes and medical offices.
A master's degree in criminal justice qualifies you for supervisory and administrative positions in law enforcement and the correctional system, such as that of a police chief or prison administrator. Agencies such as the DEA and FBI often require master's degrees, as do jobs in the court system and the forensic sciences. Heads of security at private companies are often expected to hold a master's degree.