A master’s degree is a higher education degree that you can pursue after graduating with your bachelor’s. Choosing the right graduate school impacts what specific field you will specialize in.

The field you choose to focus on for your master’s degree does not have to correlate with your undergraduate major. For example, if you have a bachelor’s degree in fine arts, you can apply for a computer science master’s.

If you’re finishing your bachelor’s or considering grad school, it’s important to research the best option for you. The most common master’s degrees are the Master of Science (MS) and the Master of Arts (MA). Both degrees can take you to the next level of education but differ in emphasis.

As technology and demands for flexible programs expand, there are various options for you to grow. You can enroll for a master’s degree online, in person, or in a hybrid program. 

The fundamental difference between an MA and an MS lies within their focus, curriculum, and career outcomes. Learning more about each master’s characteristics will help you make an informed choice.

Master of Science (MS)

A Master of Science degree emphasizes hands-on applications and equips you with specialized skills to address real-world challenges. You’ll learn how to apply your knowledge to work in practical ways. The most common field of practice for an MS degree is in:

Engineering

A field of study focused on applying math and science to problem-solving, designing, testing, and building machines, structures, and processes. 

Computer science 

The study of computers and computational systems focuses on software and software systems. Learn about the theory, design, development, and application of these concepts.

Natural Science

Explores the physical world and all its natural occurrences. Science has two main branches: physical sciences and biological sciences. Physical sciences include chemistry, geology, physics, and math. Biological sciences include biology, botany, zoology, genetics, and microbiology.

Healthcare

Concentration on population health management, research methods, human resource management, financial management, laws and ethics, and quality improvement. 

Many MS programs often design laboratory work, internships, and/or industry partnerships into the curriculum. This gives you a huge advantage when applying for mid-level, senior or executive positions in the field you choose.

Master of Arts (MA)

A Master of Arts degree dives deep into theories and concepts. The focus is getting you to think critically, analyze information, and really understand the underlying frameworks. 

MA programs are commonly offered in liberal arts fields such as: 

Humanities

The study of human culture, including literature, history, the arts, music, philosophy, etc.

Social Sciences

Learn about the origin of humanities, social sciences, and natural science and how they are present in today’s world.

Literature

Understand literary theory and criticism, literary history, and genres. Introduction to various critical and methodological stances.

These MA programs emphasize critical thinking, research, and the exploration of cultural, historical, or philosophical concepts.

What You’ll Study

Another distinguishment between an MS and an MA is the specific curriculum and coursework requirements. MS programs generally emphasize quantitative and technical courses relevant to your field.

The coursework includes advanced mathematics, statistics, data analysis, scientific research methods, and specialization-specific topics.

On the other hand, MA programs focus on all things qualitative and interdisciplinary. The curriculum often includes seminars, research papers, literature reviews, and discussions that encourage critical analysis and reflection.

Immerse yourself in a broader range of courses that explore historical context, cultural perspectives, literary analysis, and social theories.

MA vs MS Research Strategies

Research plays a significant role in both MS and MA programs and they approach research differently. MS programs typically require you to conduct original research.

Usually, you’ll work on a thesis or a capstone project that pushes the boundaries of knowledge in your field. These research projects expand your skills in scientific methodologies and how you can apply them to real-world situations.

In contrast, MA programs conduct literature reviews and serious critical analyses. Instead of starting new research, the emphasis is to expand on existing research to add new ideas to the academic discussion. Get ready to become a master of unraveling ideas and shedding light on the unseen.

Career Goals and Opportunities

Deciding between an MS and an MA can have a significant effect on your career prospects and opportunities. Having valuable skills that employers seek will open up a range of opportunities for you in your career path. To employers, a master’s degree signifies field expertise, leadership knowledge, and the ability to start your new role right away.

MS graduates are ideal candidates for technical and research-based positions within various industries. Having these specialized skills will make you stand out for competitive roles that require advanced technical expertise. Those with an MS degree may find suitable employment opportunities in fields such as engineering, information technology, healthcare, and scientific research.

For those interested in academia, public administration, journalism, social services, or cultural institutions, pursuing an MA degree can lead to success. The skills gained through critical thinking, research, and communication will enhance your analytical abilities and comprehension of social and cultural dynamics.

NDNU Master Programs

At Notre Dame de Namur (NDNU) we offer master’s programs in Business and Management, Education, and Psychology. We focus on social justice and aim to help you become a skilled and confident leader. Many of our online graduate programs offer scholarships up to $5,000 or $10,000.

School of Business and Management (SBM)

SBM provides practical education that blends industry-specific knowledge with theoretical concepts to equip graduates for career progression. SBM programs, such as MBA, MPA, STEM, and MSTM, feature hybrid learning with a focus on small class sizes. SBM also offers a fully online undergraduate program, the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BS BA).

School of Education (SOE)

Some master’s and credential programs are available for concurrent enrollment at the School of Education. We offer a number of integrated programs to prepare you to become a professional educator or a community leader.

In-person programs offered are education, school administration, special education, single subject, and multiple subject credentials. We offer opportunities to obtain your master’s degree fully online in educational therapy, TESOL, and DEIL.

School of Psychology (CPD)

The School of Psychology will provide you with the necessary skills to pursue a career as a licensed mental health professional.

We offer a program called Master of Science in Clinical Psychology (MSCP) on campus. It has two specializations: Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) and Marriage and Family Therapy and Licensed Professional Clinical Counseling (MFT/LPCC).

Additionally, we offer a hybrid online and in-person Bachelor of Arts (BA) program in psychology.

Master of Science Programs at NDNU

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

The MBA is a well-liked option that concentrates on creating strong management and leadership skills. This degree benefits fields like marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

MPA programs emphasize skills in organizational management, public finance, and policy-making. Created for people who want to lead in the public and nonprofit sectors. 

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)

STEM programs offer MS degrees in disciplines like computer science, engineering, and data science. These programs teach how technology impacts businesses, with a focus on decision-making, project management, and using new technologies efficiently.

Master of Science in Technology Management (MSTM)

MSTM programs teach how technology impacts businesses, with a focus on decision-making, project management, and using new technologies efficiently. 

Master of Science in Clinical Psychology (MSCP)

An MSCP can open up many career opportunities. These include counseling, mental health, research, human resources, and other areas that need knowledge of human behavior and psychology. 

Master of Arts Programs at NDNU

Master of Arts in Education (MA Ed)

The MA in Education teaches students how to lead schools. They learn about managing organizations, making policies, and being a good leader. 

Master of Arts in School Administration (MA SA)

The MA in School Administration is a program for leaders in schools. It teaches about managing organizations, making policies, and supervising teaching. 

Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

The TESOL program helps students teach English to people who speak another language. By placing a strong emphasis on language acquisition theories, curriculum development, and efficient language instruction.

Master of Arts in Educational Therapy (MA ET)

The MA in Educational Therapy teaches how to help people with learning disabilities. It covers assessment, intervention, and therapy techniques. 

Master of Arts in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership (DEIL)

The DEIL degree teaches about systemic unfairness and how to create inclusive spaces. It covers the history and culture that lead to inequality and ways to remove obstacles.

Which master’s degree will you choose?

Choosing between a Master of Science and a Master of Arts affects your academic and professional path. Think carefully before deciding. In short, an MS program is practical and technical, while an MA program focuses on thinking, theory, and different perspectives.

Online Grad School vs. In-Person Grad School

Consider if an online master’s program fits your needs and goal better than the traditional in-person option. Ultimately, the key to success is selecting the program that complements your strengths, passions, and aspirations. By understanding the unique opportunities and challenges of each program, you can confidently embark on your graduate journey.

Why Choose NDNU?

Whether online or in-person our class sizes remain intimate, guaranteeing connection with your professors and peers. On average class sizes are between 8 to 15 students. Your future professors are professionals that actively work in the field you are majoring in. And we offer various student services to support you every step of the way to graduation!

NDNU welcomes you and we cannot wait to have you speak to our Admissions Team for more details about enrolling.