The Ultimate Guide: How a Master of Arts Degree Can Open New Doors

There are a variety of master’s degrees you can get, in accordance to your interests and goals such as Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MSc). In this article, we’ll discuss the MA degree. It is a graduate-level degree typically awarded in fields related to the humanities, social sciences, and fine arts. Unlike more technical or science-oriented programs, an MA focuses on developing analytical, creative, and communication skills through a diverse curriculum that may include courses in literature, history, communication studies, and the arts.

Getting to Know the Master of Arts (MA) Degree

Before diving deep, let’s get to know the background and benefits of acquiring a MA degree. 

History of MA Degree

The Master of Arts is one of the oldest forms of graduate education, with origins tracing back to medieval universities in Europe. Initially, the MA was a continuation of bachelor’s education and a prerequisite to study at the doctoral level. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a standalone degree that emphasizes advanced academic and practical knowledge in specialized subjects.

Key Benefits

Pursuing an MA degree fosters significant personal and professional growth. Students enhance their critical thinking, improve their writing and research abilities, and develop better communication skills. These skills are not only vital for academic and professional success but also enrich personal life by fostering a deeper understanding of the world and various cultures.

MA Degree Fields

Unlike more specialized degrees such as the Master of Science (MS) or the Master of Business Administration (MBA), which are typically geared towards specific career paths or industries, a Master of Arts (MA) degree offers a broader educational experience. MA programs not only prepare you for specific career paths but also equip you with versatile transferable skills. 

Common Subjects in MA Programs

MA degrees cover a wide range of subjects, reflecting the degree's flexibility and breadth. Some of the common fields of study include:

• Journalism and Mass Communication: Focusing on media studies, communication theories, and practical journalism skills.

• Languages: Offering advanced studies in classical languages, French, Spanish, German, Chinese, among others, with potential careers in education, translation, and diplomatic services.

• Education: Including sub-disciplines like educational psychology, this field prepares students for advanced roles in teaching, educational administration, or policy-making.

• History: Providing insights into historical events, contexts, and analysis, leading to opportunities in education, research, and preservation.

• Political Science: Examining government systems, political behavior, and public policies, which is ideal for careers in government, non-profit organizations, or journalism.

• Sociology: Studying societal behavior and structures, beneficial for roles in social work, community planning, and public policy.

• Philosophy: Engaging with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and ethics, often leading to careers in teaching, writing, or consultancy.

• Religion: Investigating the various belief systems and their impacts on cultures and societies, suitable for roles in community leadership, counseling, and academia.

These fields illustrate the adaptability and wide-ranging applications of an MA degree, allowing graduates to pursue diverse career opportunities.

Career Opportunities

An MA degree opens doors to a range of career opportunities. Graduates can pursue roles in education, publishing, the arts, management, public relations, and more. The diverse skills gained through an MA program make graduates attractive to employers in a wide array of industries, from non-profits and educational institutions to government agencies and private corporations.

Comparing MA and MSc

Another famous degree to get for your master’s is a Master’s of Science (MSc) degree. Here, we will discover the differences between these two postgraduate degrees. 

Core Differences

The Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MSc) degrees cater to different academic and professional interests. The MA degree typically focuses on humanities, social sciences, and fine arts, emphasizing theoretical knowledge, critical thinking, and analytical skills. In contrast, the MSc is more oriented towards science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, with a curriculum that emphasizes quantitative research, scientific methods, and practical application of skills.

Which One Should You Take? 

When deciding between an MA and an MSc, consider your long-term career objectives. If your interests lean towards fields like literature, arts, education, or public policy, an MA may be more suitable as it enhances skills in communication, analysis, and cultural awareness, which are vital in these areas. Conversely, if you aim to work in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, IT, or research, where technical skills and scientific knowledge are prioritized, an MSc would be a better fit. Evaluate your career aspirations and the skills required in your desired job market to make an informed decision.

In summary, a Master of Arts degree offers unparalleled flexibility and a broad set of skills, preparing graduates for diverse career paths and providing a solid foundation for personal and professional growth.

Need further help in discovering and picking the perfect choice for your master’s degree? Consult with us! 

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