Master of Science (MS) Degree: Your 2026 Guide

Key takeaways

• A Master of Science (MS) degree is a graduate degree that can be earned in fields such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or a related discipline.

• This type of master's degree typically takes around two years to complete when you're able to attend full-time.

• Earning your MS degree can be a way to gain in-depth knowledge and expertise in your chosen field, while enhancing your professional qualifications and research capabilities. 

Learn more about the MS degree, including fields you can study, costs, and time to completion.

What is an MS degree?

A Master of Science (MS) degree is an advanced academic degree that builds on your undergraduate education. When pursuing an MS degree, you have the option to either build upon your bachelor's studies or explore a new field altogether.

Unlike a bachelor's degree program, you won't have to complete general education requirements. Instead, you'll spend the duration of your MS degree program taking specialized courses in your chosen field.

MS degree: fields of study

There are several fields you can opt to earn an MS degree in. These include:

• Aerospace engineering

• Biology

• Chemistry

• Civil engineering

• Computer science

• Data science 

• Economics

• Entrepreneurship 

• Health care administration

• Management

• Marketing 

• Nursing

• Occupational therapy

• Physics

• Robotics

• Statistics

MS degree requirements

In order to apply for an MS degree, and then successfully complete the program, you'll need to. meet certain requirements.

MS application requirements

Before you pursue an MS degree, you’ll need to have earned your bachelor’s degree. Beyond that requirement, you'll also be expected to submit the following:

• Transcripts: Official academic records from all previous college-level studies.

• GPA: Most programs have a minimum GPA requirement, often around 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

• Test scores: Many programs require Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores. Some specialized programs might require GMAT, MCAT, or other tests.

• Letters of recommendation: Two or three letters from professors or professionals who can speak to your academic or professional abilities.

• Personal statement: An essay outlining your academic and career goals, and how the program will help you achieve them.

• CV: A document outlining your academic, professional, and relevant extracurricular experiences.

MS program requirements

Once enrolled in your MS degree program, you can expect to take graduate-level coursework and complete a thesis or capstone research project, depending on your program. Learn more about what you’ll need to graduate.

• Coursework: Typically, students complete around 30 credits of advanced coursework.

• Minimum GPA: Maintaining a minimum grade point average, often 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.

• Thesis or capstone project: Complete a thesis (including conducting original research) or a capstone project to show mastery of subject matter.

• Practicum or internship: Complete a time-bound internship or practicum to practice what you're learning in a professional setting.

MS degree costs + timeline

The average Master of Science degree program costs a total of $61,380, though that may not account for additional fees, materials, and housing [1].

It takes, on average, two years to complete an MS degree when you attend full-time, but many programs offer part-time options to help returning or professional students who work.

Reasons to earn an MS degree

A master's degree can often be a valuable investment in yourself, both personally and professionally. Earning a master’s degree has been shown to increase earning potential. Master’s degree holders earn a median weekly salary of $1,840, while bachelor’s degree holders earn $1,543, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) [2]. Salaries in industries such as data analytics, computer and information science, health care management, and finance all tend to pay well and often prefer candidates with advanced degrees.

Other reasons to get an MS degree include:

• Advanced knowledge: Gain in-depth expertise in your field of study.

• Career advancement: Improve your job prospects and qualify for higher-level positions.

• Research opportunities: Engage in cutting-edge research and contribute to your field.

• Networking: Build valuable connections with professors, industry professionals, and peers.

• Personal growth: Enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.

• Preparation for doctoral studies: Lay the groundwork for pursuing a Ph.D. if desired.

• Career change: Facilitate a transition to a new field or industry.

Which MS degree program is right for you?  

Given the cost and time commitment associated with a Master of Science program, you should assess your individual situation, weighing the degree’s more immediate expenses against the outcomes you’d like to achieve. The categories outlined below should also be important factors in your decision-making.  

Accreditation 

Look for MS programs from accredited colleges or universities. An accredited institution has been verified by an independent agency (approved by the US Department of Education), which ensures that your school meets minimum standards and likely provides a quality education.  

You should also make sure your school is accredited if you intend to apply for US federal financial aid. Learn more about why accreditation is important when deciding on your Master of Science program.

Curriculum 

As you research different MS programs, take a close look at the kind of coursework you’ll complete. Pay close attention to the type of subject knowledge or training you’ll receive and how it aligns with your broader goals. Is it too broad for the kind of specific skill set you’re looking to develop, or is it too niche?

It's also helpful to take a look at the faculty who will be teaching your classes, especially their experience. Reviewing each program’s course offerings can indicate what you’ll learn and help you identify whether it’s a good fit. 

Scheduling 

Whether you attend an in-person or online MS program, you may find that you have some options when it comes to the way you take classes. To determine which program is best for you, consider your broader needs. Do you need greater flexibility because you’ll be working while attending school? Would you prefer more face-to-face interactions rather than video lectures and Zoom meetings? If possible, consult each program’s graduate advisor to learn the types of classes they offer, ensuring they align with your scheduling needs.  

• In-person: Classes are held in person at scheduled times.  

• Hybrid: Classes are held both in person and online, synchronously. 

• Synchronous online: Classes take place at a set time and are held online. 

• Asynchronous online: Classes are held online and aren’t scheduled at a set time. Instead, they can be completed according to your needs, though generally, work may need to be done by a certain time (each week or month). 

Additional resources

Research the types of financial assistance each program provides. Beyond federal grants or loans, you have several options to consider. Many MS programs offer scholarships, stipends, or teaching assistantships that can help balance out the cost of the program. It may also be worth looking into a program’s career placement resources as you consider the potential long-term impact of earning your master’s degree. 

Federal financial aid is just one option when it comes to paying for grad school. Learn more about other ways to finance your education.

Earn your master's degree on Coursera

Find flexible, affordable master's degrees in in-demand fields with respected university partners on Coursera. Some offer performance-based admission, which means you'll be admitted after successfully passing a certain number of courses.