What Is the Average Cost of a Master’s Degree 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Pursuing advanced degrees has a profound effect on knowledge and skill enhancement and expanded employment prospects. Projections show that there will be around 860,010 master’s degree recipients from 2023 to 2024, and by 2031, recipients will have reached 1,000,460 (Statista, 2022). You might find yourself wondering if pursuing this credential is worth it, especially since the cost of a master’s degree can be expensive. However, an investment in this degree often pays off in the long run. Therefore, in this guide, I present crucial details about the cost of getting a master’s degree, outlining the diverse factors influencing these expenses to help you arrive at more informed decisions about your education.

What are the benefits of getting a master’s degree?

1. A master’s degree enhances your expertise in a specific field, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market.
2. Graduates with master’s degrees often enjoy higher earning potential, at around $1,661 each week.
3. Obtaining a master’s degree can open doors to leadership roles and positions of greater responsibility within organizations.

Affordable Quick Online Master’s Degree Programs with High Acceptance Rates

Choosing the right advanced credential is a significant decision, and while it may be straightforward for some, I recognize that others might require additional time to make their selection. As you consider various elements, including the masters degree cost in USA, let me highlight some commonly chosen degree programs that offer a balance of affordability and high acceptance rates.

Nursing

A master’s in nursing focuses on enhancing clinical skills and opens doors to advanced nursing roles such as nurse practitioners or nurse anesthetists. Common courses cover advanced patient care, healthcare policy, and leadership. Graduates gain critical skills in advanced patient assessment, pharmacology, and evidence-based practice.

Computer Science

With a master’s in computer science, graduates often secure roles as software engineers or data scientists. The degree deepens students’ knowledge of algorithms, programming languages, and emerging technologies. Learners encounter courses in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data analytics and develop skills in coding, algorithm design, and software development.

Healthcare Administration

This program prepares students for leadership roles in healthcare organizations. Graduates can pursue careers as healthcare administrators, health service managers, or hospital executives. Courses focus on healthcare management, finance, and policy. Meanwhile, the skills one can gain include strategic planning, financial management, workplace management, and healthcare policy analysis.

Management

A master’s in management develops students’ leadership skills and paves the way for careers in various industries, such as project management, business analysis, or consulting. Common courses included in its curriculum are organizational behavior, strategic management, and project leadership. With knowledge on these subjects, students can become operations managers, risk analysts, or bank managers.

Management Information Systems

Students with a master’s in MIS learn how to match the right business requirements for information systems. They often find roles as IT managers, network administrators, computer technicians, or systems analysts. They also gain skills in problem-solving, information systems design, business foundation, and enterprise data management.

Special Education

The special education master’s program equips educators with skills to support students with diverse learning needs. They are trained to understand inclusive teaching strategies, behavior intervention, and special education law. Graduates may become special education teachers, instructional coordinators, or behavior analysts.

Economics

A master’s in economics focuses on quantitative research, consulting, economic theories, or policy analysis. Graduates may work as business consultants, financial analysts, financial planners, or actuaries. The courses that students will encounter are econometrics, statistics, accounting, public economics, and government policies related to economics.

Social Work

With a master’s in social work, graduates are prepared to promote social justice, practice psychotherapy, and assist diverse populations and their needs. Graduates take on roles as clinical social workers, child welfare specialists, victim advocates, or social services managers. Learners will gain skills in counseling, advocacy, problem-solving, communication, and program management.

Accounting

A master’s in this discipline enhances students’ skills in accounting, such as auditing, financial reporting, taxation, and accounting technology integration. This degree also prepares students to become certified public accountants (CPAs) or auditors. The courses that students will tackle include fraud, forensic accounting, tax concepts, strategic management, and management communications.

Business Administration

An MBA aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of business principles and leadership in various industries. The program ensures that graduates are ready for executive roles or entrepreneurial ventures. MBA students may become consultants, brand managers, HR managers, chief officers, or entrepreneurs.

Table of Contents

• What are the average tuition costs for master’s degree programs?
• What factors influence variations in tuition costs across universities?
• How does residency status impact the overall cost of a master’s degree?
• What types of financial aid are available for master’s degree students?
• How common is it for master’s students to take on student loans?
• How do tuition costs differ for part-time and full-time master’s students?
• How do the costs of online and on-campus master’s programs compare?
• What are some unexpected costs associated with pursuing a master’s degree?
• What are the pros and cons of joint degree programs for cost efficiency?
• Can online colleges with open enrollment offer affordable master’s degrees?
• What qualitative factors influence the true value of a master’s degree?
• How can students evaluate the ROI of their master’s degree?
• What are some ways to cut down the costs of master’s degrees?
• Will a Master’s Degree Stay a Competitive Asset in a Changing Job Market?
• Can employer benefits and tax incentives lower the overall cost of a master’s degree?
• How long does it take to pay off a master’s degree?
• Comparing Traditional and Alternative Master's Degree Programs to Reduce Costs
• Is Pursuing a Doctoral Degree a Cost-Effective Alternative?
• Can an accelerated online bachelor's degree provide early cost-saving benefits?
• Can alternative financing options reduce the financial burden of a master’s degree?
• How Accelerated Programs Cut Time and Costs for Master’s Degrees
• Other things you should know about the cost of master’s degrees

What are the average tuition costs for master’s degree programs?

In my research on Education Data Initiative (Hanson, 2023), the average cost of a master’s degree in a public institution is $59,060 and $87,950 in private schools. To be more specific, I have compiled statistics from the National Center for Education Statistics (2023a) to show the total tuition and fees of graduate education from the academic year 2021 to 2022 below:

1. Public institutions (in-state): $20,513
2. Private nonprofit institutions: $29,931
3. Private for-profit institutions: $14,161

Wondering “How much does a master’s degree cost?" and taking steps to gather insights from various sources can help you plan your finances accordingly since enrolling in a graduate school is a significant investment. It is also important to note that the average expenses for master’s degree programs vary based on factors such as the school’s reputation and one’s residency.

What factors influence variations in tuition costs across universities?

After gathering insights from reputable institutions, I found that there is a multitude of aspects that affect graduate tuition costs. These include any or a combination of the following factors:

1. Type of institution. Private universities, often funded through endowments, donations, or student tuition fees, generally command higher expenses than their publicly and government-funded counterparts.
2. Location or residency. In-state or in-district residents typically benefit from lower tuition rates. On the contrary, out-of-state or international students may expect higher masters program costs.
3. Mode of delivery. Distance programs offered by some of the most affordable online colleges may present a more cost-effective alternative compared to traditional on-campus options because students can save on several fees.
4. Type of degree or program. Professional and specialized master’s degrees typically have higher tuition due to experienced faculty, resources, and intensive coursework. For instance, the estimated tuition and fees cost of an MA degree is $9,039, an MS costs $10,746, and an MFA is $17,898 (NCES, 2020, retrieved December 29, 2023).

In the chart below, I gathered data from the NCES National Postsecondary Student Aid Study: 2020 Graduate Students to show the estimated median tuition and fees paid by graduate students.

How does residency status impact the overall cost of a master’s degree?

Public universities, in particular, often offer a reduced cost of a master’s degree tuition to in-state residents as a way to support local communities and encourage higher education participation. However, out-of-state or international students may face higher tuition costs. Some schools also charge a slightly different rate for out-of-district students. Fortunately, many universities have reciprocity agreements with neighboring states to reduce out-of-state tuition costs. Understanding and determining residency status is a crucial factor for prospective students in assessing the total cost and financial considerations associated with obtaining a master’s degree.

What types of financial aid are available for master’s degree students?

Master’s degree programs often come with pricey tuition, which is why students need to find sources of financial assistance to ease the cost of a master’s degree. In my research, I discovered that they can apply for the following financial aid options:

1. Scholarships Offered by universities, nonprofits, communities, religious groups, and professional or social organizations based on academic merit, talents, achievements, or financial needs
2. Grants Provided by the federal or state government, schools, or private entities based on financial need or demographic factors and are often not repaid unless you withdraw from your program
3. Student loans Offered by federal government agencies or private entities and must be repaid with interest
4. Assistantships Available in universities or research centers and require students to render service hours in exchange for covering tuition costs or stipends
5. Fellowships Often tied to specific research projects and support a candidate’s full-time study in exchange for research outputs or other deliverables
6. Work-Study Programs Enable students to study while earning an income

How common is it for master’s students to take on student loans?

From 2022 to 2023, 62% of funding for graduate students accounted for federal loans, the largest share among other types of student aid (Ma & Pender, 2023). This reflects the common practice of master’s students seeking financial assistance. Moreover, the average cost of federal loans that each student received in 2022 was $17,490.

Whether you are pursuing a degree charged with standard tuition or one of the most affordable master’s degrees for teachers, the cost of a master’s degree can greatly be reduced through a student loan. This option is often appealing to students because they do not need to provide a credit score, and they have flexible repayment options. However, while federal loans can provide crucial financial support, it is better to explore other funding options to minimize unnecessary borrowing to ensure a manageable financial pathway.

How do tuition costs differ for part-time and full-time master’s students?

Typically, the cost of a master’s degree for part-time students is charged per credit hour, allowing them to pay for the exact number of credits they take each term. In contrast, full-time students often pay a flat, semester-based tuition, covering a predetermined number of credits.

Opting for part-time enrollment can offer students a more adaptable financial approach, particularly if they are employed. However, a potential drawback is the possibility of tuition increases, especially if they take the minimum number of courses over an extended period. Meanwhile, full-time learners may face substantial upfront payments, yet they also enjoy potential savings on additional credits beyond the predetermined number, depending on the tuition structure adopted by the institution.

How do the costs of online and on-campus master’s programs compare?

Online master’s degree programs are often perceived as more cost-effective than their on-campus counterparts, yet the cost of a master’s degree in some online institutions is comparable. Online learning allows working students to mitigate income loss, and the absence of relocation costs contributes to overall savings. For instance, choosing a cheap online business degree can help save expenses on books, learning materials, or commuting. Furthermore, some schools offer the same in-state rates for online students. However, keep in mind that some online programs may require specific software or technology and other online support fees, which could incur additional expenses.

What are some unexpected costs associated with pursuing a master’s degree?

Upon comparing results, I found that the following materials or factors ring up the additional cost of a master’s degree:

1. Textbooks and study paraphernalia
2. Technology and software requirements
3. Application, graduation, or professional membership fees
4. On-campus housing and meals
5. Transportation or parking costs
6. Conference, workshop, or convention fees
7. Uniforms or professional attire
8. Extra-curricular, emergency, or personal expenses

However, these vary depending on the program and academic requirements. Whether you are pursuing a costly program or the cheapest online criminal justice degree, you must take into account these unforeseen financial aspects to ensure a more accurate assessment of the overall investment in education.

What are the pros and cons of joint degree programs for cost efficiency?

Joint degree programs combine two fields of study, allowing students to earn two master’s degrees simultaneously, often in a shorter timeframe than pursuing each degree separately. These programs, such as a JD/MBA (Juris Doctor and Master of Business Administration) or MD/MPH (Doctor of Medicine and Master of Public Health), can be attractive for those looking to diversify their skill sets or maximize career prospects.

Additionally, joint programs reduce overall tuition and completion time compared to two standalone degrees. Students also gain interdisciplinary expertise, which can increase their marketability and open doors to roles that value cross-functional knowledge. For instance, a healthcare professional with an administrative background or a lawyer with business acumen may stand out in competitive job markets. Additionally, these programs often provide opportunities for networking across industries.

However, there are downsides to consider. Joint programs can be intense, requiring students to juggle rigorous coursework from both disciplines. Though less than doing two degrees sequentially, tuition costs are still higher than in single-degree programs. Furthermore, scheduling complexities and a potentially narrower focus within each field might pose challenges.

For individuals considering joint programs, exploring shorter alternatives may also be beneficial. For example, one year masters programs online offer a streamlined approach to earning an advanced credential without the extended commitment of dual-degree programs. By carefully weighing the pros and cons, students can determine whether a joint degree aligns with their career goals and financial priorities.

Can online colleges with open enrollment offer affordable master’s degrees?

Online colleges with open enrollment provide an alternative pathway for advanced education that emphasizes flexibility and streamlined admissions, which can lower upfront costs. These programs remove traditional barriers to entry while maintaining rigorous academic standards, offering a viable option for professionals seeking to quickly enhance their credentials.

When assessing these alternatives, students should compare course structures, accreditation standards, and technology support systems to ensure that the program delivers both quality and cost efficiency. Detailed reviews of online colleges with open enrollment can help in identifying institutions that effectively balance affordability with academic excellence, ultimately contributing to a solid return on investment.

What qualitative factors influence the true value of a master’s degree?

While financial metrics are essential, qualitative elements such as accreditation, faculty expertise, networking opportunities, and career support play a crucial role in determining a program’s long-term impact. Prospective students should verify that the institution maintains rigorous academic standards through recognized accreditation bodies, offers seasoned professionals as faculty, and provides robust career services and industry partnerships. Evaluating alumni outcomes and employer satisfaction further clarifies the program’s effectiveness in preparing graduates for real-world challenges. For a well-rounded perspective on affordable and quality options, consider reviewing the best online masters degrees.

How can students evaluate the ROI of their master’s degree?

Based on various academic sources, a good rule of thumb to calculate the ROI of your credential is to subtract your total attendance cost of a master’s degree from your projected 20-year earnings, divide it by your attendance cost, and multiply it by 100. Generally, the majors that make the most money are those fields that require specialized knowledge. For instance, nursing, law, medicine, or computer science, can yield an ROI ranging from $500,000 to one million USD (Cooper, 2022). Moreover, data from Statista (2023) also show that graduates of a master’s degree in the following fields have the highest starting incomes:

1. Engineering: $86,826
2. Computer science: $83,681
3. Math and sciences: $82,848
4. Business: $80,305

However, computing your ROI must also involve considering other criteria—such as industry stability, job demand, or salary increase—that contribute to the benefits of the educational pursuit. Non-quantifiable factors, like connections, job satisfaction, career flexibility, and gained skills, also affect the ROI of the cost of a master’s degree.

What are some ways to cut down the costs of master’s degrees?

Understandably, strategizing how to pay for a master’s degree requires solid financial planning. Therefore, after exhaustive research and analysis, I propose a few ways to lighten the burden of pursuing this academic endeavor:

1. Student loans, grants, or scholarships. As mentioned earlier, explore scholarships and grants first, as they don’t require repayment. If needed, consider loans as a last resort and be mindful of interest rates.
2. Employer tuition reimbursement. Check if your employer offers tuition reimbursement; it’s a cost-effective way to advance your education while working.
3. Work-study programs. Seek on-campus work-study opportunities to gain experience, build your resume, and offset tuition costs simultaneously.
4. Teacher or research assistantships. Look for assistantship opportunities within your field to not only reduce tuition but also gain valuable experience relevant to your master’s program.
5. Part-time enrollment. Consider part-time enrollment if you have work or personal commitments; it can cut costs and allow you to balance education with other responsibilities.
6. Accelerated programs. Explore fast-track programs to complete your master’s degree in a shorter time, potentially reducing overall tuition expenses. For example, consider one year MSW programs if you are into social work.

Another option is to consider working first before enrolling for graduate school. This enables you to gain practical work experience and accumulate savings. Moreover, doing so can help you build a financial cushion and gain insights into your chosen field.

Will a Master’s Degree Stay a Competitive Asset in a Changing Job Market?

A master’s credential must be evaluated beyond immediate financial returns by considering its adaptability to future industry requirements. Employers increasingly prioritize programs that update their curricula with emerging technologies, innovative methodologies, and practical soft skills. Prospective students should verify if a program consistently aligns its academic offerings with market forecasts and maintains partnerships that facilitate exposure to evolving industry standards. Additionally, analyzing the long-term career trajectory of alumni can provide insights into the institution’s effectiveness in preparing graduates for economic shifts and job market fluctuations.

Can employer benefits and tax incentives lower the overall cost of a master’s degree?

Employer tuition assistance programs and tax benefits can help offset tuition expenses, reducing the financial burden of an advanced degree. Many organizations offer reimbursement plans that cover a portion of tuition fees based on job role and performance, while tax credits like the Lifetime Learning Credit may be available for qualifying educational expenditures. Evaluating these options alongside alternative pathways—such as pursuing a cheapest fastest bachelor's degree—can provide a comprehensive strategy for minimizing out-of-pocket costs and aligning educational investments with long-term career goals.

How long does it take to pay off a master’s degree?

Paying off a master's degree depends on several factors, including loan amount, interest rates, and individual financial circumstances. Most borrowers take 10 to 20 years to repay their student loans. However, some may pay it off faster with aggressive repayment plans, while others may extend it beyond 20 years using income-driven repayment plans.

Key factors that influence repayment duration include:

• Loan amount: Higher loans mean longer repayment times.
• Income: Higher income allows for faster payments and shorter loan terms.
• Interest rates: Fixed vs. variable rates can affect the overall cost and timeline.
• Repayment plan: Standard 10-year plans are common, but income-based or extended plans may lengthen the process.

Students should carefully review their expected earnings after completing their degree and select repayment plans accordingly. Many opt for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) if they work in qualifying jobs, which can also significantly reduce the time to pay off their loans.

Comparing Traditional and Alternative Master’s Degree Programs to Reduce Costs

Master’s degree costs can vary widely depending on the program format. Traditional on-campus programs often come with higher expenses due to factors like campus fees, relocation, and commuting. In contrast, alternative master’s programs, including online, competency-based, and accelerated options, offer a more affordable pathway for students seeking flexibility and cost savings.

Online programs, for example, can significantly reduce expenses related to transportation and housing. Many institutions also provide a fixed in-state tuition rate for online students, regardless of residency. For those seeking even faster completion times, the easiest master’s degree programs are designed to allow students to quickly gain credentials in fields with high demand and lower course loads. Additionally, competency-based programs enable students to progress at their own pace, often shortening the time to graduation and lowering costs.

Evaluating these alternative program formats can help you maximize the value of your educational investment while tailoring your learning experience to your unique goals and budget.

Is Pursuing a Doctoral Degree a Cost-Effective Alternative?

While a master’s degree delivers immediate career benefits, some professionals consider a doctoral credential for advanced research roles and specialized expertise. Evaluating a doctoral program involves examining study duration, advanced training opportunities, and potential long-term salary enhancements. In select fields, accelerated pathways enable candidates to complete their studies efficiently while balancing costs and career goals. Prospective students must assess whether additional qualifications align with industry demands and personal objectives, considering factors such as funding options and program flexibility. For further insights on efficient doctoral studies, review our article on accredited online PhD programs.

Can an accelerated online bachelor's degree provide early cost-saving benefits?

An accelerated online bachelor's degree can serve as a strategic stepping stone in reducing overall educational expenses by enabling students to complete their undergraduate studies faster and enter the workforce sooner. This pathway not only shortens the duration of pre-graduate education but can also lead to earlier access to scholarships, employer tuition assistance, and competitive financial aid options for master’s programs. Additionally, the rigorous and streamlined curriculum of such programs often prepares graduates for more affordable, accelerated master’s options, thereby lowering the cumulative cost of advanced education. For further details on available options, refer to accelerated online bachelor degree.

Can alternative financing options reduce the financial burden of a master’s degree?

In addition to traditional loans and scholarships, alternative financing models—such as income share agreements and employer-sponsored repayment programs—have emerged as viable options to lower upfront costs. Income share agreements allow students to repay tuition as a fixed percentage of future earnings over a predetermined period, aligning repayment with actual post-graduation income. Some institutions also establish partnerships with industry employers to offer performance-based incentives and tuition reimbursement plans that further ease financial pressures. Prospective students should carefully assess the terms and conditions of these options, including repayment caps and eligibility criteria, to ensure they complement long-term financial goals. For those pursuing accelerated pathways, exploring fast track degree programs may present additional opportunities for cost savings and quicker career advancement.

How Accelerated Programs Cut Time and Costs for Master’s Degrees

For students looking to maximize their investment in graduate education, accelerated master’s programs offer a practical solution. These programs are designed to reduce the time it takes to earn a degree, which can also significantly lower the overall cost of education. By combining rigorous coursework with a streamlined schedule, accelerated programs allow students to achieve their academic and career goals faster and more affordably.

1. What are accelerated master’s programs?

Accelerated master’s programs condense the traditional timeline for completing a graduate degree, typically allowing students to finish within 12 to 18 months instead of the usual two years. These programs are particularly appealing for working professionals or students eager to re-enter the workforce quickly.

2. How Accelerated Programs Save Money

Reduced Tuition Costs: With a shorter duration, students pay for fewer semesters, which translates to lower tuition and fees.

• Minimized Living Expenses: For on-campus students, the reduced time spent in school means less money spent on housing, food, and transportation.
• Opportunity Cost Savings: Graduating sooner allows students to re-enter the workforce earlier, minimizing lost income while studying.

3. Fields That Offer Accelerated Master’s Degrees

Accelerated programs are particularly popular in fields such as business, healthcare, and education, where students can leverage their degrees for immediate career advancement. For instance, an accelerated MBA or master’s in healthcare administration can quickly prepare students for leadership roles in their respective industries.

4. Combining Affordability and Speed

Accelerated programs often overlap with online and hybrid learning formats, which are inherently more flexible and cost-effective. Many institutions offering affordable master’s degrees also provide accelerated options, giving students access to quality education at a lower overall cost.

5. Who should consider accelerated programs?

Accelerated master’s degrees are ideal for:

• Students who have a clear career trajectory and want to fast-track their education.
• Professionals who already have industry experience and need a graduate degree for advancement.
• Individuals looking to reduce educational costs without compromising on quality.

Accelerated programs are a smart choice for students looking to reduce the time and financial commitment of a graduate degree. By combining speed with affordability, these programs offer an efficient path to achieving advanced qualifications. If you’re considering an accelerated pathway, start by exploring affordable masters degrees that align with your goals and budget, ensuring you maximize both your time and financial investment.

Other things you should know about the cost of master’s degrees

What should I look for in a master’s degree?

When selecting a master’s degree program, evaluate the program accreditation, cost of attendance, faculty expertise, and curriculum relevance. Look for programs that offer practical experience, networking opportunities, and industry connections. Investigate the program’s reputation, alumni success, or licensure pass rates. Additionally, assess the flexibility of the program to accommodate your schedule and preferred learning style. Prioritize institutions that align with your values and provide a supportive learning environment. A well-rounded master’s degree should not only deepen your knowledge but also equip you with practical skills and a professional network essential for success in your chosen field.

What is the salary after a master’s degree?

On average, the salary of a student with a master’s degree is around $1,661 per week, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023), which is slightly higher than the income of baccalaureate graduates. However, income can vary depending on your field of study, industry, location, and level of experience. Additionally, the incomes of graduates with professional degrees, such as a PhD in accounting salary, are significantly higher than the wages of graduates with a master’s degree.

What are the average tuition costs for international students pursuing a master’s degree?

Generally, international students may face higher tuition fees than domestic students, ranging from $20,000 to $40,000 or more. The cost varies greatly depending on the program and institution. Some schools charge out-of-state fees to international learners while others increase tuition by a few hundred or thousand dollars. Others also have a fixed rate for online and international students. Therefore, it is important for international students to carefully research the specific tuition fees of the universities and programs they are interested in, as well as to consider additional expenses like accommodation, living costs, and health insurance.

Are there programs that offer loan forgiveness for certain master’s degree fields?

Yes, there are loan forgiveness programs specifically designed for certain master’s degree fields. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) is a prominent example, offering forgiveness for federal student loans after 120 qualifying monthly payments while working for a government agency or not-for-profit organization. Teachers, nurses, dentists, and other professionals may benefit from specialized forgiveness programs. Additionally, some states offer loan repayment assistance programs (SLRAPs) to incentivize individuals to work in critical areas such as healthcare or education, providing financial aid to repay student loans.

References:

1. Hanson, M. (2023, August 20). Average cost of a master’s degree. Education Data Initiative. https://educationdata.org/average-cost-of-a-masters-degree
2. National Center for Education Statistics. (2020). Tuition and fees paid (median) without zeros and Student budget (attendance adjusted) (median) without zeros by Graduate degree program (28 categories). National Postsecondary Student Aid Study: 2020 Graduate Students. https://nces.ed.gov/datalab/powerstats/table/kjrkgh
3. National Center for Education Statistics. (2023a, May). Average and percentiles of graduate tuition and required fees in degree-granting postsecondary institutions, by control of institution: Academic year 1989-90 through 2021-22. 2022 Digest of Education Statistics. https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d22/tables/dt22_330.50.asp
4. National Center for Education Statistics. (2023b, May). Graduate degree fields. Condition of Education. https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/ctb/graduate-degree-fields
5. Statista. (2022, October). Number of master’s degree recipients in the United States from 1879/80 to 2031/32. https://www.statista.com/statistics/238236/masters-degree-recipients-in-the-us
6. Statista. (2023, January). Projected starting salaries for master’s degree graduates in the United States in 2023, by discipline. https://www.statista.com/statistics/635512/average-salary-of-graduates-in-the-us-by-discipline
7. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, September 6). Earnings and unemployment rates by educational attainment, 2022. Education Pays. https://www.bls.gov/emp/chart-unemployment-earnings-education.htm