Master's degree: How many credit hours?

Hi there! I'm in my junior year in high school and already thinking about grad school. How many credit hours does it usually take to earn a master's degree? I know it depends on the program, but an average would be helpful. Thanks!

Hello! It's great that you're planning ahead for graduate school. While the number of credit hours required to earn a master's degree does indeed vary depending on the program and institution, a typical range is anywhere from 30 to 60 credit hours. In general, most master's programs require at least two years of full-time study to complete, with some accelerated options being completed in as little as one year.

For instance, many Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs require around 60 credit hours, while Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS) degrees in fields like English or psychology might require closer to 30-40 credit hours. Another factor to consider is whether the program includes a thesis or capstone project, which can influence the time and credits needed to complete the degree.

To get a more concrete idea of what to expect for specific programs or institutions, it's best to review their graduate catalogs or reach out to their admissions offices. These resources can provide more accurate information about the credit requirements and program expectations for the master's degrees you might be interested in pursuing. Good luck with your educational journey!