The Transformative Power of Pursuing a Master’s Degree

What is a master’s degree?

A master’s degree, also known as an MA (Master of Arts), is a postgraduate degree typically pursued after completing an honours degree.

It’s designed to equip students with advanced skills in a specific study area, allowing them to specialise further and pursue senior roles within a company.

Two main distinguishing features of these degrees are their structure and content. Depending on the specific degree and institution, an MA degree may take many forms.

• Coursework-based degree: This type of programme allows students to participate in a series of classes that cover various subjects related to their field of study. They’re often structured around a curriculum, and students must complete several projects and assignments.
• Thesis-based degree: This type of programme requires students to do original research under the supervision of a faculty advisor. It usually involves creating a thesis, which is a substantial document (between 50 and 100 pages long) that covers the student’s findings and analysis of a specific topic in their chosen field.
• Combination: Programmes that include coursework and a thesis allow students to tailor their degree to their career goals and interests.

Beyond coursework and research, these degrees may also often include hands-on aspects, such as internships and practicums, so students can gain experience while studying.

Completing an MA requires a significant time investment regardless of your chosen option, as it can take an additional one to two years.

Reasons to study a Master’s

Studying towards an MA can reshape your skillset and your future career prospects. With coursework and practical elements, this degree equips you with advanced skills to help you stand out. Here are some of the main benefits of studying this degree:

1. Develop yourself into an expert

This degree can help you advance your skills and understanding and become a specialist in your field. It offers an advanced curriculum to build upon your foundational knowledge.

It also allows you to drastically improve your research abilities to contribute original ideas to your future employers.

2. Boost your career and earning potential

It can enhance your career prospects and allow you to enter higher-paying positions. There’s a growing demand for professionals with advanced qualifications in many fields.

According to research, workers in South Africa with a Master’s Degree earn 29% more than workers with a Bachelor’s Degree.

3. Create research opportunities

Many of these programmes require you to complete a thesis. You’ll also work closely with faculty advisors who can provide mentorship. During your studies, you’ll learn several different research methods, including collaborative research.

As a result, this degree allows you to develop your research skills, which are critical assets in many professional fields.

4. Pivot in a new direction

Depending on what subject you want to study, you can change direction. For example, just because you have honours in education doesn’t mean you must do your MA in a similar subject.

If you have the correct credits, you can take your studies in a different direction. Also, admission committees for these degrees often consider several aspects, including your academic background, achievements, and relevant experiences.

5. Professional advancement

It can help you grow in your current job and help you climb the corporate ladder.

During your studies, you’ll gain more advanced skills and expand your professional network, giving you many opportunities to grow in your job and obtain specialised roles within your field.

6. Network with others in your field

Pursuing an MA provides you the unique opportunity to connect with colleagues and a diverse range of experts in your area of specialisation.

Networking with these professionals can lead to future collaborations and give you insights into your field’s current market trends, challenges, and opportunities.

7. Personal growth

Furthering your studies with an MA enhances your professional prospects and fosters personal growth. It also provides intellectual growth, allowing you to think critically and analyse complex problems.

Additionally, it builds your communication and time management skills and teaches you to be more adaptable to change.

Doing a Master’s Degree in South Africa with MANCOSA

Pursuing an MA degree is an excellent option for the following individuals:

• You want to become an expert in your field.
• You want to boost your salary and gain more job opportunities.
• You’re looking for networking opportunities in your field.

If any of these sound like you, consider getting an MA. Some of the benefits of studying an MA with MANCOSA include the following:

• We’re an accredited institution.
• We offer distance learning options so your studies are self-paced and independent.
• Students can expect a mixture of lectures, access to well-designed self-study materials, and several online learning resources to enhance the learning experience.

What MA courses are available?

There are many MA Degree programmes available. Choosing the option that best suits your career goals is essential. Here are the MA degrees that MANCOSA offers:

• The Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Management is ideal for students pursuing a career in education management. This programme teaches you the skills and knowledge to perform investigative processes to find, solve and improve educational leadership.
• The Master of Public Administration is ideal for students who want to work in management in public organisations. The programme teaches advanced public administration skills and knowledge in the public sector. Learn why you should study for a Master of Public Administration at MANCOSA.
• The Master of Business Administration is ideal for students who want to work in senior positions within the business environment. It teaches you advanced theoretical knowledge and applied skills to effectively drive corporate and socio-economic growth.

Register for a Master’s course online

Now that you better understand what an MA degree entails and its benefits, you can compare the different Master’s programmes MANCOSA offers to see which one best suits you.

Remember to consider your overall goals. Also, if you need clarification on whether you meet admission requirements, all prerequisites are listed on each course page.