Many people feel confused when writing master’s degree or masters degree. You might have seen both versions used online, in resumes, or even in official documents. This makes it hard to know which one is correct and which one is wrong.
This confusion usually comes from grammar rules related to apostrophes and possessive nouns. Since English can be tricky, even native speakers sometimes make mistakes with terms like this. That’s why many people search for “master’s degree or masters degree” to find a clear and simple answer.
Understanding the correct usage is important, especially if you are writing a resume, applying to universities, or creating professional content. Using the correct form shows attention to detail and good language skills.
Quick Answer
The correct form is “master’s degree” with an apostrophe.
“Master’s degree” is correct because it shows possession (a degree of a master).
“Masters degree” without an apostrophe is considered incorrect in standard English.
Meaning and Definition of Master’s Degree or Masters Degree
Let’s break down the two forms to understand them better.
1. Master’s Degree (Correct Form)
Definition:
A master’s degree is a postgraduate academic degree awarded by a university after completing advanced studies in a specific subject.
Explanation:
The apostrophe + “s” shows possession. It means the degree belongs to a “master” level of study.
Examples:
- She earned a master’s degree in Business Administration.
- He is studying for his master’s degree in computer science.
- A master’s degree can improve your career opportunities.
2. Masters Degree (Incorrect Form)
Definition:
“Masters degree” is often used informally, but it is grammatically incorrect in formal writing.
Explanation:
Without the apostrophe, “masters” looks like a plural noun, not a possessive one. This changes the meaning and makes it incorrect.
Examples (Incorrect Usage):
- ❌ She has a masters degree in psychology.
- ❌ He completed his masters degree last year.
Correct Version:
- ✅ She has a master’s degree in psychology.
- ✅ He completed his master’s degree last year.
Key Differences Between Master’s Degree or Masters Degree
Here are the main differences between master’s degree or masters degree:
- Master’s degree
- Correct and standard form
- Uses an apostrophe to show possession
- Accepted in academic and professional writing
- Used in resumes, essays, and official documents
- Correct and standard form
- Masters degree
- Incorrect in formal English
- Missing the apostrophe
- Looks like a plural form instead of possessive
- Should be avoided in professional writing
- Incorrect in formal English
Comparison Table
| Word | Meaning | Usage | Example |
| Master’s degree | A postgraduate academic degree | Correct and formal | She earned a master’s degree in education |
| Masters degree | Incorrect version (missing apostrophe) | Informal/incorrect | ❌ He has a masters degree in finance |
Examples in Sentences
Here are more real-life examples to help you understand the correct usage.
Correct Usage (Master’s Degree)
- I am planning to pursue a master’s degree abroad.
- She completed her master’s degree in engineering.
- A master’s degree takes about two years to finish.
- He used his master’s degree to get a better job.
- Many students apply for a master’s degree after graduation.
Incorrect Usage (Masters Degree)
- ❌ I have a masters degree in history.
- ❌ She is doing her masters degree in biology.
- ❌ He completed a masters degree last year.
Common Mistakes
Many learners make simple mistakes when writing master’s degree or masters degree. Let’s look at them.
1. Missing the Apostrophe
- ❌ masters degree
- ✅ master’s degree
Why it’s wrong:
The apostrophe is needed to show possession.
2. Using Capital Letters Incorrectly
- ❌ Master’s Degree (in general sentences)
- ✅ master’s degree
Tip:
Use lowercase unless it is part of a specific program name.
3. Confusing Plural with Possessive
- ❌ masters degree (plural form)
- ✅ master’s degree (possessive form)
4. Using Apostrophe in the Wrong Place
- ❌ masters’ degree
- ✅ master’s degree
Tips to Remember the Difference
Here are some easy tricks to help you remember:
1. Think of Ownership
A master’s degree means a degree of a master.
So, the apostrophe shows ownership.
👉 “The degree belongs to a master.”
2. Compare with Bachelor’s Degree
We also say:
- bachelor’s degree
- master’s degree
Both use apostrophes, so they follow the same rule.
3. Remember the Pattern
If it ends with ’s, it is usually correct for degrees:
- bachelor’s degree
- master’s degree
4. Say It Out Loud
When you say it, you naturally pause:
👉 “master’s degree”
This helps you remember the apostrophe.
When to Use Each Word
Use “Master’s Degree” When:
- Writing a resume or CV
- Applying for jobs
- Writing academic essays
- Filling out university applications
- Writing formal emails
Avoid “Masters Degree” When:
- Writing professionally
- Submitting academic work
- Creating official documents
👉 You may see “masters degree” in casual writing, but it is not correct in formal English.
Grammar Rules (Apostrophes)
To fully understand master’s degree or masters degree, you need to know one simple grammar rule.
Apostrophe for Possession
An apostrophe + “s” shows that something belongs to someone or something.
Examples:
- John’s book (book belongs to John)
- Teacher’s desk (desk belongs to teacher)
- Master’s degree (degree belongs to master level)
Why Not “Masters”?
“Masters” without an apostrophe is just a plural noun, meaning more than one master.
But here, we are not talking about multiple masters. We are talking about a type of degree.
Synonyms or Related Words
Here are some related terms:
- Graduate degree
- Postgraduate degree
- Advanced degree
- Master of Arts (MA)
- Master of Science (MSc)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
These can sometimes be used instead of “master’s degree” depending on context.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it master’s degree or masters degree?
The correct form is master’s degree with an apostrophe.
2. Why does master’s degree have an apostrophe?
Because it shows possession. The degree belongs to the “master” level of study.
3. Is “masters degree” ever correct?
No, it is not correct in formal English. Always use master’s degree.
4. Should I capitalize master’s degree?
Use lowercase unless it is part of a specific title:
- Correct: master’s degree in science
- Correct: Master of Science
5. Is it the same as bachelor’s degree?
Yes, both follow the same rule:
- bachelor’s degree
- master’s degree
6. Can I use master degree instead?
No, “master degree” is incorrect. Always use master’s degree.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between master’s degree or masters degree is simple once you know the rule. The correct form is master’s degree, with an apostrophe, because it shows possession.
The version without the apostrophe, masters degree, is incorrect and should be avoided in formal writing. This small punctuation mark makes a big difference, especially in professional and academic contexts.
By remembering this rule and practicing it in your writing, you can avoid common mistakes and communicate more clearly. Keep it simple:
👉 Always use master’s degree.
I am Daniel Brooks, a passionate grammar enthusiast who loves making English easy and clear for everyone. I focus on simplifying tricky grammar rules so readers can understand them without confusion. I enjoy creating helpful and engaging content that improves everyday writing skills. My goal is to make learning grammar simple, practical, and enjoyable for all.
