Jobi.ngA Master of Science degree (or MSc for short) is a professional degree granted at academic institutions for the completion of postgraduate studies in a scientific or technology-related profession.
Participation in an MSc course of study entails a collective effort in one’s career path. Aside from the improved employment options that an MSc degree can provide, students will acquire beneficial skill sets and satisfy the necessary criteria for doctoral studies.
This article covers all you need to know as a student who wishes or is considering studying for a master of science degree as he or she furthers their education.
What is an MSc?
The Master of Science (MSc) is the classic Master’s certification for taught courses in technology, engineering, science, and mathematics (STEM).
MSc courses allow students to hone in on a specific area of interest in greater depth and are especially applicable to those who excel at statistical analysis and technicalities.
Courses typically last one to two years if taken full-time and comprise individual modules preceded by an independent research (master’s thesis) project.
Also, part-time MSc programs are available, but they are usually twice as long as full-time courses.
What are the entry Requirements for an MSc?
To be recognized for a 12-month MSc program, you must have an excellent first degree, like a 2:1 or higher, from a reputed institute.
Feel free to visit the school-specific pages for details on International Entrance requirements and equivalent degrees.
Read also: List of Top MSc Colleges in the World
How Many Credits is an MSc worth?
Master’s degrees demand 180 credits of work, which is made up of taught modules, projects, and a thesis. Individual master’s degree modules are typically worth 10 to 30 credits, based on their duration and the volume of the testing process.
To be eligible for a master’s degree, you must have completed enough work to total 180 credits, anything less than this will disqualify you.
Nevertheless, if you begin but are unable to finish, 120 credits will earn you a Postgraduate diploma and 60 credits will earn you a Postgraduate certificate.
Read also: Courses you can take after BHMS
Which Subjects Award MSc Degrees?
A Master of Science degree can be obtained in fields of science like chemistry, physics, or computer science.
An MSc will primarily be granted to you if you complete a standalone master’s degree, however, if you complete one as part of your undergraduate degree, it may also be referred to as an M.
MSc vs MA
This significant distinction should not be overlooked. “The MA is just a terminal degree, whereas the MSc is not.”
A terminal degree is typically the highest degree that a person can obtain in his or her profession. Whereas an MSc is generally a degree that sets students up to obtain a doctoral degree.
Can I pursue an MSc postgraduate degree if I already hold a BA undergraduate degree?
Of course, it is a widespread myth that you can only pursue postgraduate studies connected to your bachelor’s.
It all comes down to just doing your investigations and carefully reviewing the eligibility conditions to see what is actually needed.
In essence, several people return to college to complete a master’s degree in a different discipline.
A conversion course, therefore, is a master’s degree that allows you to alter your path. The prerequisites often indicate that aspirants can retain a bachelor’s degree in any area of study
Who Should Study for an MSc?
The MSc is an excellent idea for someone interested in furthering their education in a field that focuses on statistical analysis and technicalities.
You will be given the opportunity to perform your own self-reliant education and research. However, you will benefit from the framework of an instructional course as well.
An MSc also provides much better potential for specialization.
Read also: Best Universities for Masters in communication
Requirements
How Long is an MSc?
An M.Sc. degree is a two-year program. It is broken down into four semesters. You must submit a dissertation centered on your specialization at the final moment of your M.Sc. journey.
The majority of courses are two years long, although there are just a few M.Sc.-specific programs that can take anything between two and five years to finalize.
Read also: GSAT Exam Dates, Application Form, and Eligibility
Conclusion
The diversity of Master of Science courses available can be enormous, just don’t let it discourage you. Begin your investigation by reviewing the most prominent MSc degrees.
