A master's certification is available in a variety of fields, from business to health care. Each program has its own specialized courses, but unlike a master's degree, it doesn't include more general topic courses.
The classes taken in a master's certification program are the same as those required to complete a master's degree.
Due to the reduced coursework required to complete a master's degree certification, the time frame for completion can be less. In general, a master's certificate consists of a minimum of three courses and can go up to nine courses. The time frame to complete a certification can be one semester or a year.
The coursework for the certification program provides professional knowledge for individuals who don't have the time, or perhaps finances, to complete a full master's degree program, but who want further professional credentials.
Since master's degree certification programs are graduate level courses, the completion of a bachelor's degree before applying to a program is necessary.
While a master's degree may include a thesis requirement, a certification doesn't.
Comparing a certification program to a complete master's degree program provides information on whether the certification program or the complete master's program is the better choice.
By completing a master's degree certification program, an individual can decide on whether or not to continue studies in the certification field.
If the certification courses are to be applied to a full master's degree later, then verify that the school where the certification is to be obtained is accredited.
Master's degree certification is offered at universities and colleges. However, since a certification is a segment of a full master's degree, it does not always fulfill the requirements for certain employment positions.