What's standing between you and your dream job? A master's degree can give you the edge you need to take the next big step in your career and help you stand out from the crowd. 

While obtaining your master's degree can open doors professionally, it is also a serious commitment. 

As a working professional contemplating diving into another degree, one of your top questions is likely, “How long does it take to complete a master's program?” 

Discover how many years it takes to complete a master's degree and the various program options to consider. 

Overview of Different Types of Master’s Programs

If you’re considering a master’s program, there are several options to consider. Fortunately, today there are alternatives to traditional full-time programs. In my experience, choosing to do an online or hybrid program offers greater flexibility for professional and personal commitments. 

The main program types include:

•          Traditional full-time programs: Similar to an undergraduate program, graduate students take on a full courseload of in-person classes. Additionally, many programs include research assignments or capstone projects.

•          Part-time programs: Part-time graduate students also attend classes, typically completing half the coursework that a full-time student would complete. This is an increasingly popular option. About 43% of graduate students attend part-time. 

•          Online or hybrid programs: Online programs allow students to complete coursework remotely. Hybrid programs may have some in-person requirements in addition to online classes. 

•          Executive master’s programs: An executive master’s program, also known as a Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) is designed to include both academic and professional aspects. This type of program is ideal for mid-career professionals who want to be able to apply new knowledge directly in their field. 

These different program options take varying lengths of time. Generally, studying part-time takes up to twice as long as completing a full-time program. 

How Long Does it Take to Complete a Master’s Program?

The typical timeframe for completing a master’s program depends on the program style, field, and your personal preferences. 

Online and hybrid programs may be more flexible, allowing students to work at their own pace. When speaking to friends and colleagues about their experiences, I learned that most online and hybrid master’s programs are flexible enough to fit in alongside other life responsibilities and commitments.

Before enrolling, be sure to ask your admissions advisor about your options. For instance, if you live out of state, how often would you need to travel for in-person events and classes?

Depending on your circumstances, you might request to extend your program to accommodate your schedule. Part-time programs typically take 2 to 4 years to complete. However, taking up to 5 years isn't unheard of. Do keep in mind that many universities may put a limit on how long students can take to complete a degree.

Is it possible to complete a master’s in one year?

The short answer is yes. Some full-time programs can be completed in one year. Accelerated options may even allow you to finish your degree faster than the average full-time student. However, other full-time programs typically take 2 years to complete.

How Fast Can You Get a Masters Degree? Factors That Influence Completion Time

There’s no clear-cut answer to the question, “How long do master’s programs take?” That’s because many different factors come into play including the field of study, credit requirements, whether or not you take classes during the summer, and your previous academic and professional experience.

Each university may have a different structure for credits. How many units you need to complete a master's degree may also depend on whether you’re completing a Master of Arts, a Master of Science, or a Master of Business Administration. 

Some other factors that may impact how many years it takes to complete a master’s program are:

•          The program structure. Some programs focus more heavily on coursework while others include a large research component. 

•          Your needs. If you’re working full-time, you might choose an online or part-time program that offers greater flexibility but takes longer to complete. 

•          Your experience. If you have professional or academic experience relevant to your program, you may be granted credits toward your degree.

•          Summer options. Some institutions offer courses during the summer, giving you the chance to get ahead. 

Balancing Career and Education: Practical Tips

Balancing the demands of your career, personal life, and master’s program requires planning and perseverance.

When I completed coursework while working full-time, here are some strategies I found helpful:

•          Schedule time for studying. Because I also had a child, it was important to schedule time to focus on my coursework. This meant coordinating childcare and working on assignments for a few hours every day. 

•          Communicate with your advisor. Your faculty advisor can be a great resource. I did my best to cultivate a good relationship with my advisor, which helped me feel comfortable reaching out for support when I needed it. If you know you’re struggling to meet expectations or reach a deadline, get in touch right away so that you can find a solution. 

•          Ask your employer about any support or programs for graduate students. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement. Another area where your employer can support you is with PTO and coordinating so you have extra time to study for big exams or prepare a final project. 

Also, be sure to vet programs thoroughly and choose the best fit for you. Many graduate studies programs cater to student needs. So, seek out a program that aligns with your goals, whether that’s completing an accelerated program or working at a more leisurely pace. 

Ready To Do Your Masters?

Completing a master’s program looks different for each student. On average, master’s students take between one and three years to complete their degrees. Ambitious students on an accelerated track can complete a master’s degree in as little as one year. 

Finding the right program for you is the first step toward earning your master’s degree. Take the quiz to discover which career is right for you! Then, learn which degree is best for your goals and create a plan for success.