Masters Degree or Master’s Degree: Which Is Correct and Why

If you’re considering higher education, you’ve probably encountered a dilemma when writing about degrees: is it a master’s degree or masters degree? Whether English is your first or second language, distinguishing between these two terms can be confusing.

While both refer to advanced academic qualifications, they have different meanings and uses, making it important to correct the spelling.

This guide will help you answer the question, “Does masters degree have an apostrophe?” by explaining when to use the possessive form and when to leave the apostrophe out.

Correct Spelling and Usage of Academic Degrees

Now that we’ve broken down the different types of degrees, it’s essential to understand the correct spelling, grammar rules, and usage of these degrees in both formal and informal writing.

Master’s or Masters Degree

The term master’s degree is the correct form. The apostrophe indicates possession, meaning the degree belongs to someone who has mastered a field of study. The plural masters degree without the apostrophe is a common mistake and should be avoided.

• Correct: She earned a master’s degree in Computer Science.
• Incorrect: She earned a masters degree in Computer Science.

When referring to more than one master’s degree, you add an “s” after the apostrophe, making it master’s degree.

Capitalization Rules for Master’s Degree

When writing about a master’s degree, the capitalization depends on the context:

Capitalize “Master’s Degree” when referring to a specific degree or in formal contexts. For example:

• Master’s Degree in Engineering
• Master’s Degree in Liberal Arts

Use lowercase when speaking about a master’s degree in general terms:

Plural and Abbreviated Forms

When writing about multiple master’s degrees, the plural form is master’s degrees, with an apostrophe after the “s.”

• Correct: She has earned two master’s degrees, one in Biology and another in Chemistry.
• Incorrect: She has earned two masters degrees.

Abbreviated forms like MA, MSc, and MBA do not require an apostrophe because they are already in their formal noun form.

Bachelor’s Degree: The Foundation of Higher Education

A bachelor’s degree is the entry-level degree for most higher education programs. It follows a general education approach, with courses in the humanities, sciences, and other fields before diving deeper into specialized courses in the student’s major.

Using the Correct Degree Title in Context

When listing your degree on a resume, CV, or academic paper, it’s important to use the correct form and follow the standard grammar rules for academic qualifications.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Economics: This title reflects completing an undergraduate degree program in economics. When referring to your undergraduate program, write a bachelor’s degree with the apostrophe to indicate possession (the degree belonging to a bachelor).
• Master’s Degree in Education: This is a master’s program that signifies a more specialized level of study after completing an undergraduate degree. When mentioning your master’s degree in education or any other field, use the apostrophe correctly, as it indicates the degree awarded to someone who has mastered a specific subject area.
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Physics: This title refers to the highest level of advanced study. The PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is a top-tier degree and typically follows the completion of a master’s degree.

When writing about your educational qualifications, make sure the degree title reflects its formal nature and follows the correct capitalization rules:

• Taught master’s programs, such as a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MSc), often follow a set curriculum and are distinct from research-based master’s degrees.
• While referencing general education courses in your degree, it’s important to note that they form the foundation of your undergraduate degree, providing the broad knowledge needed for more specialized study in advanced programs.

Understanding the Different Types of Degrees

In higher education, the terminology around academic degrees can often be confusing. Knowing the differences between bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, postgraduate degrees, and others is crucial for writing accurately, particularly on resumes or academic papers.

Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common degree types:

Bachelor’s Degree (Undergraduate Degree)

A bachelor’s degree is typically the first higher education level after secondary school. It’s awarded after completing an undergraduate program, usually taking three to four academic years of full-time study. The bachelor’s degree provides foundational knowledge in a subject area but is often more general than graduate-level degrees.

Master’s Degree (Postgraduate Degree)

A master’s degree is awarded after completing a bachelor’s degree. It typically takes one to two years of additional study and involves more specialized knowledge in a specific field. Master’s degree programs can be either research-focused or taught degrees, depending on the course structure.

Doctoral Degrees (PhD, EdD, etc.)

A doctoral program, such as a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy), is the highest level of education. It typically involves extensive research and the completion of a dissertation or thesis. They are usually pursued after earning a master’s degree and take several years to complete.

Specialized and Top-tier Degrees

Some fields have specialized degrees, often called terminal degrees, representing the highest academic qualifications one can obtain in that field. For instance, MDs for medical doctors or JDs (Juris Doctors) for lawyers are considered top-tier degrees.

Academic Degrees: Types, Abbreviations & Explanations

Common Mistakes

Even experienced writers and native English speakers sometimes make mistakes regarding academic degrees. Here are some of the most common errors — and how to correct them.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to write master’s degree correctly is more than a grammar formality — it reflects professionalism in academic and career contexts.

Using the term correctly also signals strong critical thinking and familiarity with higher-education terminology. It demonstrates that you understand the structure and expectations of advanced programs where accuracy matters.

If the writing process feels overwhelming, professional thesis support can help you refine your ideas and produce polished, well-structured work. Master’s-level writing services also assist with deadlines and complex coursework, helping you stay focused on your academic goals without replacing your own learning.

Ultimately, writing master’s degree with confidence — and seeking guidance when needed — strengthens both your professionalism and your academic progress.

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