The master's degree (with apostrophe) is the correct spelling, as it indicates possession - the degree belongs to a master. Never write it as "masters degree."

A master's degree is a postgraduate qualification earned after completing a bachelor's degree, typically taking 1-3 years of study through coursework, research, and often a thesis.

Common types of master's degrees include:

• Master of Arts (MA)
• Master of Science (MS)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Laws (LLM)
• Master of Education (MEd)

Key spelling rules:

• Use lowercase for general references (master's degree)
• Capitalize specific degrees (Master of Science)
• Remove apostrophe-s for specific degrees (Master of Arts, not Master's of Arts)
• Plural form is "master's degrees"
• Abbreviations vary by institution (MA, M.A., MS, M.S.)

The same rules apply to "bachelor's degree":

• Use apostrophe (bachelor's degree)
• Lowercase for general references
• Capitalize specific degrees (Bachelor of Arts)
• Plural form is "bachelor's degrees"
• Common abbreviations: BA, B.A., BS, B.S.

Examples of correct usage:

• "She earned her master's degree in psychology."
• "He has a Master of Business Administration."
• "They both hold master's degrees in different fields."
• "I completed my bachelor's degree before pursuing a Master of Science."

Using these terms correctly demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail in academic and professional settings.

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