A Guide to the Different Types of Master's Degrees

Earning a master’s degree is a big step toward advancing your career, boosting your earning potential, and becoming an expert in your field. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one?

At Bellevue University, working adults have access to a variety of master’s degree programs designed for real-world success. Whether you’re looking to lead in business, make an impact in healthcare, advance in technology, or grow in education, there’s a program that can help you reach your goals.

Let’s break down the different types of master’s degrees, how to find the best fit for your future, and why earning your advanced degree is worth it.

What Types of Master’s Degrees Are There?

Master’s degrees typically fall into one of two categories: Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Science (MS). However, there are also professional master’s degrees that focus on specific industries or leadership roles. Here’s a breakdown of the different types we offer here at Bellevue University:

• Master of Arts (MA): Often focused on the humanities, social sciences, and communication fields.
• Master of Science (MS): Typically centered on technical, scientific, or business-related disciplines.
• Master of Business Administration (MBA): A widely recognized professional degree for business and leadership roles.
• Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA): A specialized degree for healthcare leadership and management.
• Master of Professional Studies (MPS): A career-focused degree that blends theory with practical application.
• Master of Project Management (MPM): A specialized business degree for project management professionals.
• Master of Education (M.Ed.): Designed for educators looking to advance in teaching, administration, or curriculum development.

The MHA program helped to tune up and develop some of my leadership skills. It forced me to dive deeper into the business features of healthcare. Being effective in my VP role will require many elements taught and developed in the MHA program.

– Shanna Stofer, MHA, VP of Ancillary and Professional Services at Jennie Edmundson Hospital

How to Choose the Right Master’s Degree Program

Picking the right master’s program is a big decision, but breaking it down into a few key steps can make it much easier. Here’s how to find the best fit for your goals, lifestyle, and future career:

• Think About Your Career Goals: Where do you see yourself in five to ten years? Choose a program that helps you build the skills and credentials to get there.
• Check Out the Curriculum: Take a close look at the courses offered in each program. Do they align with what you want to learn and where you want to grow?
• Consider Your Schedule: If you’re balancing work, family, or other commitments, flexibility is key. Schools like Bellevue University offer online and part-time options, so you can earn your degree without putting your life on hold.
• Look at the Faculty: Learning from experienced professionals can make all the difference. Research the faculty’s background to ensure you’ll be gaining insights from experts in the field.
• Review Program Outcomes: A degree is an investment, so it’s worth checking out graduation rates and to understand job outlooks around the country as found on the U.S. BLS website to see how well the program sets students up for success.

Which Master's Degree Is the Most In Demand?

While all graduate degrees can help you grow professionally, some are especially in demand right now.

• Master of Business Administration (MBA): An MBA continues to be one of the most sought-after degrees because of its flexibility. Whether you’re interested in management, finance, marketing, or consulting, an MBA can open doors to leadership roles across industries. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to boost their career potential and earning power.
• Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Mental health services are more important than ever, and professionals in this field are in high demand. A degree in clinical mental health counseling prepares you to make a real difference in people's lives while also stepping into a career with strong job growth.

Bellevue University offers a CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs) accredited master’s degree program for students interested in becoming clinical counselors.

– Dr. Renea Gernant, Assistant Dean, Program Director in the College of Arts and Sciences

Master’s Degrees by Area of Interest

• Master of Business Administration (MBA): An MBA is one of the most flexible and valuable degrees for professionals aiming for leadership roles. At Bellevue University, you can earn your MBA with concentrations in finance, marketing, cybersecurity, and more, tailoring what you learn to your career goals.
• Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA): If you’re passionate about healthcare but more interested in management than patient care, an MHA could be the perfect fit. This degree prepares you for leadership in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare organizations in a fast-growing industry that needs strong leaders.
• MS in Human Resource Strategic Management: For HR professionals looking to move beyond day-to-day operations and into leadership, the MS in Human Resource Strategic Management focuses on talent management, organizational strategy, and HR analytics. You’ll be prepared to help businesses thrive while giving you the expertise to take on high-level HR roles.

Specialized and Discipline-Specific Master’s Degrees

Did you know there’s a master’s degree available for nearly every field imaginable? Whether you’re interested in technology, finance, education, or social services, specialized master’s programs can help you dive deep into your chosen industry. Bellevue University offers a wide variety of these programs, each designed to equip you with the specific skills and knowledge needed to excel in your field.

Here are a few popular options:

• MS in Computer Information Systems (MS-CIS): If you’re looking to break into IT, cybersecurity, or software development, an MS in Computer Information Systems is your ticket to success. You’ll explore key areas like data analytics, cloud computing, and network security—everything you need to build a solid career in tech.
• MS in Accounting (MSA): With accountants and financial analysts in high demand, an MS in Accounting can provide the advanced knowledge and credits needed to prepare for CPA certification and leadership roles in accounting firms or corporate finance.
• MS in Management Information Systems (MS-MIS): The MS in Management Information Systems blends business strategy with technical expertise, preparing you to manage IT systems and lead digital transformation efforts within organizations.
• MS in Instructional Design and Technology (MS-IDT): Perfect for educators and corporate trainers, the MS in Instructional Design and Technology focuses on creating effective learning experiences using digital tools and instructional design principles.
• MS in Child, Youth, and Family Studies (MS-CYFS): If you’re in social work, counseling, or community services, the MS in Child, Youth, and Family Studies gives you the expertise needed to support children and families in various settings, making a real difference in their lives.

Advantages of Earning Your Master’s Degree

Going for a master’s degree is a big commitment, but the benefits can make it well worth your time and effort. Here’s why:

1. Higher Earning Potential: On average, professionals with a master’s degree earn more than those with only a bachelor’s degree. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, adults with a master’s degree or higher had median earnings that were about 20% higher than the median earnings for those with just a bachelor’s degree.
2. More Career Opportunities: If you’re looking to move up in your field, a master’s degree may help you qualify for leadership and management roles that might otherwise be out of reach.
3. Better Job Security: The more specialized your skills, the more valuable you are to employers. A master’s degree can give you a competitive edge and help you stay relevant in a changing job market.
4. A Stronger Professional Network: Graduate programs connect you with professors, industry experts, and fellow-student peers who can become valuable contacts throughout your career.
5. A Sense of Accomplishment: Beyond the career benefits, earning a master’s degree is a personal achievement that can boost your confidence and authority in your field.

In my master’s program, we had videos that showed and explained how the concepts and principles worked, and I could replay the parts I needed so I could learn at my own pace. I got a better job with a promotion and a pay raise. I’m using the information I learned every day.

– Doug Keipper, MBA at Bellevue University

What Type of Master’s Degree Is Right For You?

Imagine turning your passion into expertise—and your expertise into opportunity. No matter what field excites you—tech, finance, education, social services, or business—there’s a master’s degree that can take you further. At Bellevue University, you’ll find a wide range of specialized programs built to sharpen your skills, deepen your knowledge, and prepare you to lead in your industry. Now is the time to take the next step.

Explore your master’s degree options and start shaping your future today.

Related resources we think you’ll like.

Master of Arts vs. Master of Science: What's the Difference?
The Benefits of Earning a Master's Degree: Is It Worth It?
How to Get a Master's Degree
A Guide to the Different Types of College Degrees