Is it Master’s Degree or Masters Degree: Which is Right?

Introduction

Is it a master’s degree or a masters degree? It is a dilemma in grammar that both students, career applicants, and even professional experts face. The presence or lack thereof of an apostrophe may appear as a trivial matter, yet it is crucial from a grammatical standpoint. It can impact the legitimacy of your writing, particularly in academic and professional contexts.

Regardless of whether you’re composing a resume, a graduate program application, or a published article, knowing how to use and punctuate academic degree titles correctly is essential. Inappropriate usage of a master’s degree can make a negative impression on your attention to detail, something that employers and educators prize highly.

This article delves into the grammar that surrounds the term master’s degree, defines when and why one would use an apostrophe, dispels common misunderstandings such as “masters in” vs. “master of,” and gives examples for writing it properly in real-world situations.

I. The Grammar behind “Master’s Degree”

The proper form is “master’s degree”–with the apostrophe and the lowercase “m” (except in the name for a specific degree, e.g., Master of Science).

Why the apostrophe? In English, the apostrophe is a symbol used to indicate possession. Thus, a master’s degree is “a degree belonging to a master.” The degree is owned by, or is given to, a person who has mastered a specific area.

This possessive form is extended to numerous academic degrees:

1. Bachelor’s degree (bachelor’s level degree)
2. Doctor’s licensę (license for a doctor)
3. Master’s degree (degree of a master’s)

The use of Master’s degree (without the apostrophe) suggests a plural noun, that is, “several masters,” which does not sound grammatical in this case. A degree is not a possession of several masters; it is a qualitative academic achievement that indicates mastery by a single person.

However, institutions and websites confuse by using expressions like “Masters Program” or “Master in Education” as a shorthand or as a matter of stylistic choice. These, though, are informal or branded forms, not grammatically proper in formal writing.

II. Masters vs. Master’s: What’s the Difference?

At first glance, Master’s and masters appear quite similar, but they have very different grammatical functions. You must know this difference to write a proper academic, professional, or business text.

‘Master’s’ with an apostrophe ( Right in Most Situations)

The word “master’s” is being used in a possessive sense, meaning that the degree is held by a master, i.e., a person who has done a postgraduate course. To say that “She has a master’s degree in nursing,” we are using “master’s” to denote that the degree is from or of a master’s level.

In formal writing, this is the sole correct form. It’s generally accepted in:

• Paper Research
• College applications
• Professional bios

However,

1. I hold a master’s degree in Public Health.
2. He is a master’s degree candidate in Engineering.
3. She has a master’s degree from the University of Nairobi.

Masters without an Apostrophe (Usually Incorrect)

The term “masters” is the plural form of the word master. For instance, “The martial arts championship drew numerous masters.” But as a title for a learned academic achievement, a master’s degree (without the use of apostrophe) is grammatically wrong because:

1. “Masters” is a plural form.
2. Several masters do not own the degree.
3. It contravenes the English rule of possessive form.

Incorrect Models:

• I graduated with a master’s in Psychology.
• She is pursuing a Master of Science course.

When “Masters” is Occurring in Proper Use

There are exceptional situations in which “Masters” without an apostrophe could be correct:

1. Branded or abbreviated expressions such as “Masters Program” or “Masters Admissions” (which is typical in university promotion
2. Appropriate proper nouns like “The Masters” (referring to the golf event)

Nevertheless, in scholarly or professional writing, it is advisable to eschew “masters” as a standalone in favour of the possessive version, a Master’s degree, save for the case of a quotation from a title or an institution’s branding.

III. Guidelines for Apostrophes in Scholarly Titles

The apostrophe in Master’s degree does seem like a minor detail, but it is a crucially important one in academic writing. It makes the difference between proper professional wording and a sloppy mistake. Let’s go over exactly when and why to use the apostrophe.

Why the Apostrophe is Needed

In this case, as stated above, the apostrophe in Master’s degree indicates possession—it is “master’s degree.” This is according to standard possessive form rules for nouns in English:

The individual does not own the degree; it is owned by the level of mastery the individual achieved.

So, we apply the singular possessive form: Master’s, not masters.

Proper Phrasing with Apostrophes

These include the following correct academic sentences with the possessive apostrophe:

1. She had a master’s degree in biology.
2. He is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in economics.
3. I did a doctorate (no apostrophe, as it’s a standalone noun).

Note: Both “bachelor’s degree” and “master’s degree” obey the same grammatical principle—both are degrees of a bachelor’s or Master’s, as the case may be.

Not a family; a unit

The use of a master’s degree without an apostrophe is grammatically wrong in professional writing. It is against the rules of possession and leads to ambiguous or unprofessional wording.

1. She earned her Master’s degree from Kenyatta University.
2. He is pursuing a master’s in literature.

When to Drop the Apostrophe: Formal Degree Titles

There are exceptions, primarily for use with official degree titles in formal listings. For instance:

1. MA (Master of Arts)
2. Master in Business Administration (MBA)
3. Master of Science (MSc)

These do not take apostrophes because they appear as formal degree titles, not as possessive expressions. In this case, “Master” is a part of a title, not a word indicating possession.

1. She obtained a Master of Science in Nursing.
2. He also has a Master of Education.

Each of those is correct without the apostrophes, as they utilize the full name for the degree.

In short:

1. Employ “master’s degree” (apostrophe) in general descriptions.
2. “Master of [Field]” (no apostrophe) in formal, titled citations.

IV. Capitalization: Ought You Capitalize ‘Master’s Degree

One frequent question individuals ask—in addition to the use of the apostrophe—is whether to capitalize Master’s degree or not. It all boils down to the usage of the phrase. Capitalization varies according to usage, formality, and journal guidelines (such as APA, MLA, or Chicago).

Let’s break it down:

When to Use Lowercase (“a master’s degree”)

In general references, you would not capitalize the Master’s degree unless it is at the beginning of a sentence.

Example,

I’m pursuing a master’s degree in economics.

She also holds a master’s degree in education.

ü Master’s degree can pave the way for greater career prospects.

This is the most typical application, particularly in resumes, cover letters, personal statements, and generic descriptions.

When to Capitalize (“Master of [Field]”)

You must capitalize the degree name when referring to the entire official name of the program. This is a proper noun.

Example

1. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Strathmore University.
2. She has a Master’s degree in Computer Engineering.
3. I hold a Master of Arts in History.

Note: Do not make the subject area uppercase unless it is part of the degree’s formal name (e.g., “a master’s degree in English literature” vs. “Master of Arts in English Literature”).

Quick Capitalization Compare Chart

She is pursuing a master’s degree in nursing. ✅ (Lowercase, general use)

He holds a Master of Public Health. ✅ (capitalize formal degree title)

I have a Master’s in Psychology. ✅ (informal but acceptable in resumes)

She earned a Master’s Degree in Economics. ❌ (incorrect: “Degree” shouldn’t be capitalized)

Recommendations for Style Guide

1. Lowercase the general references (e.g., “master’s degree”), but uppercase formal titles (e.g., “Master of Social Work”).
2. MLA Style: same approach as APA—only proper names capitalized.
3. Chicago Manual Style: duplicate, that is, general titles in Lowercase, specific degrees in uppercase.

Tip: Default to a lowercase unless you’re naming the formal degree title. This is a straightforward rule that helps you maintain a consistent and professional writing style.

V. Usage Examples: Master’s Degree in a Sentence

Writing clearly and professionally is not just a matter of knowing the regulations but also of executing them effectively in actual writing. Here are some examples that demonstrate the use of a Master’s degree in a proper manner in formal, informal, and professional situations, along with examples of misuse so you can be aware of the pitfalls.

Proper Usage Examples

• Generally, statements:

She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in public health.

I have just completed my Master’s degree in data science.

• Through resumes and cover letters:

Education: Master’s Degree in International Relations, University of Nairobi, 2023.

I have over five years of experience in teaching, including a master’s degree in curriculum development.

• When writing in

A master’s degree imparts advanced knowledge and research capabilities to the learner.

Candidates with a master’s degree tend to be paid higher.

• In the context of a formal title:

He has a Master’s degree in Fine Arts from Kenyatta University.

She obtained a Master of Science in Biotechnology in 2022.

• In casual or spoken writing:

I’m pursuing a master’s in public policy.

He is pursuing his Master’s at UON.

Incorrect usage examples (and corrections)

1. She has a master’s in psychology.

She is a master’s graduate in psychology.

1. I finished a Masters in Finance last year.

I graduated with a master’s degree in Finance last year. (Unless part of the name of a branded program)

1. Graduated with a Master’s Degree in Chemistry.

He has a master’s degree in Chemistry. (“Degree” is not capitalized here)

Tips for Writing with Confidence

1. Apply apostrophe + “s” for general references: Master’s, bachelor’s.
2. Employ “Master of…” in proper or official headings.
3. Be consistent throughout your writing—don’t switch styles mid-document.

VI. Related Phrases: “Masters of” vs. “Masters in

After you’ve determined that a Master’s degree is the correct form, you might wonder what to make of “masters of” and “masters in.” Both expressions can be found in writing, but they vary with formality, situation, and clarity.

Let’s break it down:

“Master of” — Formal Degree Titles

The term “Master of…” appears in university and academic degree titles and is capitalized. It is the full formal academic degree name as awarded by a university or institution.

• Master of Arts (MA)
• MBA (Master in Business Administration)
• Master of Science in Computer Engineering (MSc)
• Master in Public Health (MPH)

This form is correct and preferred in the following ways:

1. Diploma and certificates
2. Academic Trans
3. Frontpage or resume in formal sections
4. Official records

How to use

1. She has a Master of Education from the University of South Eastern Kenya.
2. He was conferred a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

‘Master’s in’ -General or Informal Reference

“Master’s in .” is employed in casual or general writing when the actual degree name is not being typed in full. This form is beneficial if you do not particularly need to emphasize the formality in the name of the degree.

1. I possess a master’s degree in journalism.
2. She is pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration.

This manner;

• uses Lowercase except when starting a sentence.
• Works well for casual writing, e-mails, and résumés.
• Must also retain the apostrophe (Master’s), not masters.

Quick Comparison Table

Phrase	Correct Form
She is pursuing a master’s degree in nursing.	✅ (lowercase, general use)
He holds a Master of Public Health.	✅ (capitalize formal degree title)
I have a Master’s in Psychology.	✅ (informal but acceptable in resumes)
She earned a Master’s Degree in Economics.	❌ (incorrect: “Degree” shouldn’t be capitalized)

Common Mistake

1. He is pursuing a Master of Arts.
2. He is pursuing a Master of Arts. (Proper noun, formal degree name)

In short:

1. Use “Master of…” for complete, formal academic degrees.
2. Apply “master’s in.” for casual or colloquial citations.
3. Do not use “masters of” without proper context, particularly in formal writing.

VII. Master’s Degree Application FAQs

Despite the grammar rules being explained, many individuals still have questions about how to say and write a Master’s degree correctly. The following is a list of answers to some of the commonly asked questions (FAQs) regarding apostrophes, capitalization, and word usage.

1. Is it a “master’s degree” or a “master’s degree”?

✅ Correct: Master’s degree

✅ Correct: Master’s degree

The Master’s degree contains the apostrophe indicating possession—that is, “the master’s degree.” This is the correct form in almost all academic and professional usage.

2. Do you say “master’s” or “masters”?

In general, use “master’s” to refer to the degree. If you say “masters,” it is a plural noun (e.g., “masters of the game”) and not appropriate when referring to academic degrees, with the exception that it can be part of a proper name (such as The Master’s Tournament).

3. Is “master’s degree” possessive

Indeed. It is a possessive noun phrase indicating “the master’s degree.” That is why we must use the apostrophe.

4. Does the “master’s program” require an apostrophe?

Indeed. Similar to a Master’s degree, a Master’s program must also bear the apostrophe.

She is studying for a master’s degree in education.

5. How do you write “master’s degree” in a sentence?

Here are some proper examples:

• I completed a master’s degree in computer science.
• She is pursuing a master’s degree in counselling psychology.
• He has a Master of Fine Arts degree from a renowned university.

6. Do you capitalize the word “master’s degree”?

It depends:

1. Generally, no capitals: She obtained a master’s degree in education.
2. Capitalize the formal title when using: He obtained a Master of Education.

7. Is it “master’s of” or “master of”?

Always utilize “Master of” (not Master’s) in official degree titles:

Example;

• Master of Business
• Master of Science
• Master of Laws
• Master’s of Science (wrong)

These FAQs address the most frequently asked questions, saving you from making common mistakes and writing with greater assurance.

VIII. Conclusion

The decision whether to use a Masters degree or a master’s degree is not a matter of style so much as it is a matter of professionalism, credibility, and grammar. The proper form, as we’ve observed in this guide, is “master’s degree”—and it includes an apostrophe to show possession. You’re speaking of a master’s degree, and English grammar demands that you use an apostrophe in such a construction.

We’ve also noticed that the situation is different:

1. Implementing “master’s degree” in general writing
2. Utilize “Master of [Field]” in expressing a standard academic degree.
3. Steer clear from “master’s degree” in every formal, academic, or professional environment.

You now comprehend how to:

Use apostrophe rules correctly in academic sentences.

1. Superscript “master’s degree” where appropriate
2. Differentiate between “master’s in” and “Master of.”
3. Form proper sentences and refrain from typical mistakes.

Whether you’re writing a resume, composing a scholarly paper, or simply working to improve your language use, getting this one detail correct is crucial. It indicates precision, respect for language, and a focus on more information—qualities that are valuable in both scholarly and professional spaces. So, from next time onwards, you can write a Master’s degree with complete confidence.