What Is an MSc Degree, and Should You Get One?

Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on

Learn what an MSc degree is, how it compares to other master's degrees, the disciplines available, and how long it takes to earn one.

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An MSc, or Master of Science, is the European equivalent of the American MS degree, also called Master of Science. Both are degrees in STEM, which stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In addition, some MSc programs focus on social sciences.

If you're considering a career in a STEM field, you may benefit from an MSc or MS degree. Learn more about MSc degrees, including the programs that offer them, how they differ from other similar degrees, and the jobs that require them.

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What is an MSc degree?

An MSc is the standard master’s qualification for courses in STEM and some social science subjects in Europe and India. As you take MSc courses, you’ll focus on a specific area of interest in detail. The coursework consists of individual modules in your chosen discipline, such as engineering, natural sciences, or economics. You’ll also work on an independent dissertation project to graduate, typically taking two years to complete. 

MSc or PhD: Which is better? 

A PhD is a more advanced qualification than a master’s degree. In the UK, you typically need a master’s degree to apply for a doctorate. However, in India, you can pursue a PhD directly after completing a bachelor’s degree, provided you have at least 75 percent marks or equivalent grades.

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MSc degree programs

Opportunities for an MSc degree are plentiful in any of the STEM or social science fields. Among some of the programs you can study are:

How does an MSc degree compare to other master's level degrees?

The MSc is a master's level course, whereas the Master in Science (MSci) combines bachelor's and master's level courses. The MSc degree focuses on STEM or other non-humanities subjects, while the Master of Arts (MA) centers on creative and analytical subjects. The term “MSc” is more commonly used in Europe and India and varies slightly from the US version of the MS.

MSc vs. MSci

The MSci is an undergraduate course that will typically take you four years to complete and allows you to graduate with a master’s level degree. The MSci is less common than the MSc and is generally associated with professional coursework. 

Alternatively, you can choose the MSci course track, where you could earn a three-year undergraduate bachelor's of science (BSc) and then your master's level MSc. However, you’ll generally earn master's level credentials in less time with the MSci. It consists of three years of bachelor's level classes and a final year of more intense courses and seminars at the master's level.

Both of these degrees are more common in the UK than in the United States.

MSc vs. MA

An MSc encompasses science, technology, engineering, social sciences, and math, while an MA degree program usually focuses on the humanities and liberal arts subjects.

Another difference lies in the structure of the programs. If you want to learn through research, class discussion, and essay writing, choose an MA. Become an MSc student to learn through analysis, lab work, and scientific research.

MSc vs. MS

The MSc is the abbreviation generally used in the UK, Europe, and India, and the MS is the US version of the same degree. 

How long does it take to earn an MSc degree?

You can take one to two years to earn an MSc degree, depending on several factors, including whether you attend full- or part-time. It's possible to complete an MSc degree program in two years when you attend full-time. It may take a year or two longer if you're studying part-time.

Program requirements will also factor into your time to complete an MSc degree. If you need to complete a thesis or capstone project, it can take more time. 

What careers can you pursue with an MSc degree?

With an MSc degree, you can prepare yourself for various career opportunities where you’ll apply your knowledge and skills. Just a few of the opportunities that may be available upon your completion of an MSc degree are:

Earn your Master of Science degree

Experience what it's like to earn your Master of Science degree online when you take an open course from a top university on Coursera. Here are some courses to try:

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This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.