How to get a master’s degree

By: Janice Mejías Avilés, Edited by: Gabriela Pérez Jordán

Last updated: July 25, 2025

Pursuing a master's degree is an exciting milestone — a dream for some learners or a necessity for career growth. But the process can feel overwhelming, especially if you're unsure of your focus or have multiple interests.

Whether you're still deciding on your discipline or already know your path, thorough research and clear organization are key.

This guide will help you visualize each step, from what to look for when exploring programs and comparing admission requirements to weighing costs and outcomes.

Steps to get a master's degree

Step 1: Earn a bachelor's degree

Most master's programs require prospective students to hold a bachelor's degree in a related field. This ensures you have the necessary foundational knowledge.

Aim to maintain a grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher during your bachelor's, as this is the typical requirement for most master's programs. It's also helpful to gain research experience and complete internships, which may help you secure letters of recommendation from professors and supervisors — another common master's program application requirement.

Step 2: Research master's programs

Once you've earned your bachelor's degree, explore master's programs that align with your career and personal goals. Research your field's job market projections and salary expectations, as these factors can vary by location.

Consider whether you'll study part time or full time and if the program is delivered online, in person, or hybrid. Some programs — especially those in healthcare — may require in-person clinical hours.

Note that choosing a program that matches your interests is more important than enrolling at a prestigious university. Research the program's curriculum, review faculty research areas, and don't hesitate to contact faculty members with any questions.

Also, factor in tuition costs and financial aid options (such as scholarships, grants, or federal student loans). When researching, consider the program's accreditation status and placement rates after graduation.

Step 3: Meet admission requirements and submit your applications

Master's program admission requirements vary by program and field, but most include:

• Official transcripts
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Résumé or curriculum vitae (CV)
• Letters of recommendation from professors or supervisors
• Statement of purpose
• Standardized test scores such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) for general graduate programs, Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) for master's in business administration programs, or Law School Admission Test (LSAT) for law school
• Interview with the admissions panel

Specialized programs, like those in engineering or healthcare, may require a bachelor's degree in a related field, prior professional experience, or licensure.

International students may need to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) to demonstrate English proficiency and provide degree equivalency. They may also pay higher application fees.

Consider applying to multiple programs to increase your chances of acceptance. Tailor your application to each program, keep track of deadlines, and be mindful of the application fees, which can be costly.

Step 4: Enroll in a master's program and finish the coursework

After acceptance, you'll begin your coursework with core classes and then move on to electives or specializations. Some master's programs offer teaching assistantships or the opportunity to attend seminars or publish academic papers.

Graduate coursework demands strong critical thinking, research, writing, and time management skills. It's vital to stay organized and manage your course load and personal obligations to maintain the minimum GPA required for enrollment.

Step 5: Complete requirements and graduate

Many master's programs require a final capstone, thesis, exit exam, or practicum before graduation.

• A capstone applies what you've learned in a research project, a final paper, or a presentation.
• A practicum offers hands-on training in a real-world setting.
• A thesis involves original research, analysis, and writing on a specific topic.

Once you complete one of these, you'll be a candidate for graduation. Before starting your career, you may need to pass certification or licensure exams in some fields.

Can you go to graduate school for a different major?

Yes, you can pursue a master's degree in a field different from your bachelor's degree. Some programs allow applicants with unrelated degrees to complete prerequisite coursework to help them get up to speed.

To bridge the gap and strengthen your application, you may want to take field-related standardized tests, write a statement of purpose that highlights your passion for the new field, and tailor your résumé or CV with relevant experience.