Academic Degree Master's Degree Programs 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does the abbreviation 'M.S.' stand for in graduate education?
- Master of Science (Correct answer)
- Master of Studies
- Master of Skills
- Master of Sociology
Correct answer: Master of Science
M.S. stands for Master of Science, a graduate degree typically awarded in scientific, technical, or mathematical fields.
Question 2: What is the typical credit hour requirement to complete a master's degree in the US?
- 30–36 credit hours (Correct answer)
- 60–70 credit hours
- 120 credit hours
- 15–20 credit hours
Correct answer: 30–36 credit hours
Most US master's programs require between 30 and 36 credit hours of coursework to graduate.
Question 3: Which type of master's degree is most commonly associated with business administration?
- MBA (Correct answer)
- MFA
- MEd
- MPA
Correct answer: MBA
The MBA (Master of Business Administration) is the most widely recognized graduate business degree in the United States.
Question 4: A thesis-based master's program requires students to complete which of the following?
- Original research and a written thesis (Correct answer)
- Only coursework and exams
- An internship only
- A capstone presentation without writing
Correct answer: Original research and a written thesis
Thesis-based master's programs require students to conduct independent research and submit a written thesis defended before a faculty committee.
Question 5: What is the primary difference between a terminal master's degree and a non-terminal master's degree?
- A terminal degree is the highest in its field; non-terminal leads to further study (Correct answer)
- Terminal means incomplete; non-terminal means complete
- Terminal degrees take longer to finish
- Non-terminal degrees are online only
Correct answer: A terminal degree is the highest in its field; non-terminal leads to further study
A terminal master's degree (e.g., MFA) is the highest credential in that discipline, while a non-terminal master's is a step toward a doctoral degree.
Question 6: Which master's degree is typically required for licensed professional counselors and therapists in the US?
- Master of Arts in Counseling or related field (Correct answer)
- Master of Science in Biology
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Fine Arts
Correct answer: Master of Arts in Counseling or related field
Licensed professional counselors and therapists in the US typically need a Master of Arts or Master of Science in Counseling, Psychology, or Social Work.
Academic Degree Master's Degree Programs 1
What does the abbreviation 'M.S.' stand for in graduate education?