If you are unsure about masters or master’s, the short answer is that master’s is usually the correct form when referring to an academic degree. The apostrophe matters because it shows possession and follows a long-standing grammatical convention in English.
That said, confusion is common. People write “masters degree,” “masters student,” and “during my masters” every day, especially in informal settings. This guide explains where the apostrophe belongs, when it does not, and how to write these terms correctly in academic, professional, and everyday contexts.
Why Masters And Master’s Are Frequently Mixed Up
The confusion comes from the fact that people often hear the word spoken but rarely think about the grammar behind it. Since the apostrophe is not pronounced, many writers assume both forms are interchangeable.
Understanding the reason behind the apostrophe makes the distinction much easier.
How The Apostrophe Changes The Meaning
In academic terminology, master’s degree is a shortened form of master’s degree program, meaning a degree belonging to the rank of master.
For example:
- ✅ She earned a master’s degree in education.
- ❌ She earned a masters degree in education.
The apostrophe is not optional in formal writing.
Why Academic Terms Create Confusion
Many university websites, social media posts, and casual conversations omit punctuation. Over time, readers become accustomed to seeing both versions.
This happens with other degree names too. Similar grammar patterns appear in discussions about correct word usage and grammar distinctions.
Why Master’s Degree Is Usually The Correct Academic Form
Most academic style guides, universities, and professional organizations prefer master’s degree.
The apostrophe reflects the traditional naming structure used for graduate degrees.
Why Master’s Degree Includes An Apostrophe
Historically, bachelor’s and master’s degrees were considered degrees awarded at specific academic ranks.
Examples:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree
The apostrophe remains part of the standard form today.
Why Masters Degree Without An Apostrophe Is Often Marked Incorrect
In resumes, academic papers, and university applications, omitting the apostrophe may be viewed as a grammar error.
Correct examples:
- Master of Science in Finance
- Master’s degree in Psychology
- Master’s degree in Computer Science
Masters Or Master’s Degree In UK And US English
Both American and British English generally favor master’s degree.
Although style differences exist between regions, this particular rule remains largely consistent.
| Region | Preferred Form |
| United States | Master’s degree |
| United Kingdom | Master’s degree |
| Academic Publications | Master’s degree |
| Professional Resumes | Master’s degree |
Writers who compare regional language differences often encounter similar distinctions in articles discussing math versus maths usage and while versus whilst preferences.
Masters Or Master’s Program In University Writing
Universities almost always use master’s program in official materials.
If you are preparing admissions documents, it is best to follow the wording used by the institution.
Examples:
- ✅ Master’s program in Public Health
- ✅ Master’s program in Data Science
- ❌ Masters program in Data Science
Masters Or Master’s Student: Which Version Should You Write?
Student classifications follow the same pattern as degree names.
Using the apostrophe creates consistency with established academic terminology.
Student References In Academic Publications
Correct:
- Master’s student
- Master’s candidate
- Master’s researcher
Incorrect:
- Masters student
- Masters candidate
Student References In Everyday Communication
Informal conversations may omit the apostrophe, but formal writing should not.
For example:
- Informal: I’m a masters student.
- Formal: I’m a master’s student.
Masters Or Master’s In Education And Business Administration
Degree specializations follow the same rule.
Examples include:
- Master’s in Education
- Master’s in Business Administration
- Master’s in Public Policy
- Master’s in Engineering
Incorrect forms:
- Masters in Education
- Masters in Business Administration
This pattern resembles other grammatical choices discussed in comparisons such as will versus would and criteria versus criterion.
During My Masters Or During My Master’s?
This phrase appears frequently in resumes, cover letters, and professional biographies.
The preferred formal version is during my master’s.
Examples:
- ✅ During my master’s, I completed research on healthcare policy.
- ✅ During my master’s program, I worked as a teaching assistant.
- ⚠ During my masters, I completed research on healthcare policy.
The informal version is common but less polished.
Masters Or Master’s Thesis: Which Form Fits Formal Academic Style?
Academic writing strongly favors master’s thesis.
Universities, libraries, and research databases generally use this form.
Examples:
- Master’s thesis
- Master’s research project
- Master’s capstone project
Incorrect:
- Masters thesis
- Masters research project
If you frequently write academic content, understanding these distinctions can help avoid the same types of errors seen in discussions about shrank versus shrunk and spelled versus spelt.
Masters Or Master’s On A Resume, CV, And LinkedIn Profile
Professional documents require the most careful formatting.
Recruiters often notice grammar and punctuation errors immediately.
Correct resume entries:
- Master’s Degree, Marketing
- Master of Science, Information Systems
- MBA, University of Michigan
Avoid:
- Masters Degree, Marketing
- Masters in Marketing
For additional apostrophe-related confusion, many writers also compare this topic with masters versus master apostrophe rules.
Should Master’s Be Capitalized In Degree Names?
Capitalization depends on how the degree is used.
| Usage | Capitalized? |
| master’s degree in biology | No |
| Master of Science | Yes |
| Master of Arts | Yes |
| master’s program | No |
Examples:
- She earned a master’s degree in biology.
- He completed a Master of Science in Engineering.
Common Grammar And Formatting Errors With Masters And Master’s
Several mistakes appear repeatedly in academic and professional writing.
Missing Apostrophes In Degree Names
Incorrect:
- masters degree
- masters thesis
- masters student
Correct:
- master’s degree
- master’s thesis
- master’s student
Incorrect Plural Forms And Possessives
People sometimes confuse:
- master’s (possessive adjective)
- masters (plural noun)
- master’s degree (correct degree name)
Example:
- The university offers several master’s programs.
- The professors are masters of their fields.
Notice that the second example uses masters as a plural noun, not a degree title.
Masters Vs Master’s Across Academic, Professional, And Everyday Contexts
Context determines what readers expect.
| Context | Preferred Form |
| University Website | Master’s |
| Resume | Master’s |
| Cover Letter | Master’s |
| Academic Paper | Master’s |
| Casual Text Message | Either, but Master’s is still better |
Writers interested in subtle language distinctions may notice similar usage patterns in discussions such as mom versus mum, dove versus dived, and disorganized versus unorganized.
Final Clarity On Masters Or Master’s
In nearly every academic and professional situation, master’s is the correct choice. The apostrophe is part of the accepted name of the degree and should not be removed in formal writing.
If you are writing a resume, LinkedIn profile, university application, thesis, or professional document, use master’s degree, master’s student, master’s thesis, and during my master’s. The version without the apostrophe is common in casual writing but is generally not the preferred standard.
Common Questions About Masters Or Master’s
Is It Masters Or Master’s On A Resume?
Use master’s. Resume entries should follow standard academic formatting.
Is It Master Or Masters?
Neither is usually correct when naming a degree. The standard term is master’s degree.
Do You Say Masters Or Master’s Degree?
The preferred form is master’s degree.
Has Masters Got An Apostrophe?
When referring to an academic degree, yes. It should be written as master’s.
How Do I Mention My Master’s Degree In My CV?
Use the full degree title, such as “Master of Science” or “Master’s Degree in Education.”
What Initials Should Be Used For A Master’s Degree?
Common abbreviations include MA, MS, MSc, MBA, MEd, and MFA.
How Do I Write A Master’s Degree Title Correctly?
Use either the official degree name or the phrase master’s degree with an apostrophe.
Is Master’s Degree Capitalized?
No, not when used generically. Capitalize official degree names such as Master of Science or Master of Arts.
