Glossary of Master's Degree Programs

Agriculture ( View 8 Articles )

• Agriculture MBA Programs: Overview of Programs

  A Master of Business Administration (MBA) student in the field of agriculture learns the production and distribution process for foods and fibers, as well as related business principles. An agriculture MBA is often referred to as specializing in either agricultural economics or agribusiness.

• Animal Science Graduate Programs: Overviews by Level

  Animal science graduate students learn to develop more economical and effective ways to produce and process poultry, meat, milk and eggs. There are three primary graduate degrees in animal science, including the Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.), Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.).

• Equine Science Master's Degree Program Information

  Master's degree programs in equine science can be found in animal and agricultural science departments. There are few programs of this kind in the United States and admission may be limited. Programs allow for students to choose from a variety of focuses relating to horses and most schools have options for interdisciplinary studies with other departments. This degree program offers both thesis and non-thesis courses of study.

• Food Science Graduate Program Overviews

  A graduate degree program in food science can provide students with an advanced overview of the food, bioprocessing and pharmaceutical industries, and can lead to positions of research and management in those fields. Students who are interested in this career field can enroll in a master's or doctoral degree program.

• MBA in Agribusiness: Degree Program Overview

  Food and agribusiness relate to one of the largest industries globally. Those who possess aptitude, familiarity with food and cultivation with visualization abilities might want to consider a career in agribusiness. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) program focusing on agribusiness can teach students how to participate in and advance the food and farming market.

Architecture ( View 4 Articles )

• Master of Architecture: Architecture Degree Overview

  Master of Architecture (M.Arch.) programs are meant for students whose undergraduate degree is in an area other than architecture or those who completed a pre-professional program in architecture. These graduate programs involve 1-2 years of study and may focus on issues like design, architectural technology or architecture history.

• Master of Science (MS): Architecture Degree Overview

  A Master of Science (M.S.) in Architecture degree program does not prepare individuals for licensure. These programs are designed to provide students with advanced knowledge through research and exploration of relevant issues in architecture and design.

• Top Architect Masters Programs with School Info

  Graduate architecture programs usually award a Master of Architecture (M.Arch.) to students with varying degrees of undergraduate architecture training. Post-professional Master of Science programs are also available to architects who would like to continue their education.

• Top Landscape Architecture Masters and Graduate Programs: School List

  Landscape architects design parks, gardens and plazas. They work with engineers and building designers to plan the location of buildings, roads and other elements of the site. A Master in Landscape Architecture (MLA) may be completed in 1-3 years. The extent of required coursework usually depends on the student's undergraduate field of study.

Biological and Biomedical Sciences ( View 25 Articles )

• Best Biology Graduate Programs: List of Top Schools

  Graduate programs in biology prepare students for careers in academia, government and research, among other occupational fields. Both master's and doctoral degree programs usually demand an intense amount of personal or collaborative research and individual scholarship, and many include an instruction component in the form of biology teaching assistantships. Read on to learn about the top science graduate programs in biology.

• Biochemistry Master's Degree Program Overviews

  A master's degree program in biochemistry is usually used as a stepping stone into a doctorate program in biochemistry. It serves to acquaint students who have earned an undergraduate degree in chemistry or biology with the biochemical knowledge necessary to pursue doctoral research or expand their current responsibilities. Topics covered include the molecular structure and function of various enzymes and an in-depth study of essential biochemical processes.

• Biomedical Sciences Master's Degree Program Information

  An individual whose career aspirations include professional medical care and research could consider a master's degree program in biomedical sciences. These programs can prepare students to seek professional careers in medicine, education or research and can provide them with an advantage when applying to medical schools or doctoral science programs.

• Biotechnology Management Masters Degree Program Information

  Master's degree programs in biotechnology management offer interdisciplinary training in the scientific principles and practices involved with biotechnology and the methods of conducting biotechnological business in a commercial environment. Students learn about molecular biology and bioinformatics as well as essential marketing, accounting and administration skills. Graduates are prepared for the wide range of managerial careers that are available in the field of biotechnology.

• Ethology Graduate Programs: Curriculum Overview

  Ethology is the study of animal behavior. While there are rarely ethology graduate programs labeled as such, many schools offer graduate programs in animal behavior. These include programs at the master's degree and Ph.D. levels.

Business ( View 241 Articles )

• Accounting & Finance MBA Degree Program Information

  Offering students an advanced understanding of business practices, the Master of Business Administration (MBA) is a graduate level degree offered by institutions accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). While most MBA programs involve the study of accounting and finance, especially interested students can generally receive a concentration in either field.

• Accounting Information Systems Graduate Certificate Programs

  Potential elements in an information system range from hardware and software to procedures and people. Certificate programs in accounting information systems focus on diverse portions of an information system, but all programs include courses involving accounting software.

• Applied Economics Masters Degree Program Information

  Applied economics is a broad field encompassing economic analysis affecting private businesses, international corporations, governments and much more. Many employers require applicants to possess advanced skills, including knowledge of econometric techniques and dataset analysis that are learned in an applied economics master's degree program.

• Benefits of an MBA in Finance: Overview for Aspiring Students

  Finance is one of the most popular specializations within Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs. An MBA in Finance offers benefits to working professionals in a variety of industries, including commercial and corporate banking, investment services and real estate.

• Best MIS Graduate Programs: School List

  Management information systems (MIS) professionals coordinate the use of information technology (IT) to complete a task or enhance a business process. Graduate level education in programs such as IT management and information system design may be required for some management positions. MIS can also be studied as part of a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.

Communications and Journalism ( View 57 Articles )

• Advertising and Public Relations Masters Programs

  Students interested in careers in promotions might choose to earn a master's degree in advertising or public relations (PR). These programs typically take two years to complete, but some can be finished in as little as 18 months.

• Animation Graduate Programs: Options by Degree Level

  Several graduate programs are available for students who are interested in pursuing particular aspects of animation, including 3D animation, interactive animation and animation for film. One common type of animation degree offered at the graduate level is a Master of Arts in Animation.

• Best Communication Graduate Programs: List of Top Schools

  A graduate program in communication or communication studies is an interdisciplinary program that can give a strong foundation to such careers as management, corporate communication and interpersonal communication. Some master's-level communication programs have a focus, such as public relations, marketing or media, which may benefit those who wish to pursue a career in those fields. A doctoral program is suitable for those planning a career in academics or communication research.

• Best Writing Graduate Programs: List of Schools

  Writing programs at the graduate level usually lead to a Master of Fine Arts (MFA). Those who wish to pursue a career in creative writing - including playwriting and screenwriting - often find an MFA program helpful in gaining education and experience. A good graduate writing program will offer courses in the craft and technique of writing, as well as provide an opportunity for students to concentrate solely on their writing and receive feedback.

• Career and Salary Info for a Masters Degree in English

  Holding a master's degree in English provides opportunities for a career in multiple industries, including publishing, advertising, marketing, education and media. Career opportunities vary depending on the sector, but individuals have the knowledge and skills to work in teaching, writing and editing positions.

Computer Sciences ( View 59 Articles )

• Accredited Masters in Database Management Schools with Degree Info

  Master's degree programs in database management focus on the organization, storage and security of a company's information. Accredited database management graduate programs are available through several colleges and universities throughout the United States.

• Colleges Offering Masters Degree Programs in Networking: How to Choose

  Networking professionals combine computer skills training with a working knowledge of network security protocols and functions to create safe computer connections and working environments. Graduate students seeking careers as networking professionals have a variety of master's degree programs to choose from, many with numerous concentrations or areas of specialization.

• Colleges With a Masters in Computer Forensics: How to Choose

  Students who want to work with government or commercial digital forensics may want to pursue a master's degree in either computer forensics or in computer science with a computer forensics concentration. These programs train students to work with digital evidence, cyber crime and electronic data.

• Computer Art Master's Degree Program Information

  People interested in using technology to create images and designs sometimes pursue a master's degree in computer art. Master of Fine Arts (MFA) programs in computer art provide students with the technical knowledge and creative training needed to create digital art.

• Computer Graphics Masters Degree Program Info

  Advanced graphic designers have a growing number of opportunities at their fingertips. Earning a Master of Science degree in Computer Graphics and Game Design can students an edge in the job market, offering valuable expertise in the field.

Culinary Arts and Personal Services ( View 3 Articles )

• Masters Degree in Food Service Management: Program Overview

  A graduate degree in food service management is ideal for students who are interested in gaining the tools and knowledge necessary to manage fine and casual dining establishments. One common type of degree offered at the graduate level is a Master of Science in Food Service Management.

• Masters Degrees in Cooking and Culinary Arts: Program Information

  Currently, there are no U.S. colleges and universities that offer master's degree programs in cooking and culinary arts. Instead, programs in this field most commonly are offered at the associate degree level. Though not as common, aspiring cooks and chefs also can enroll in bachelor's degree programs.

• Masters in Food and Beverage Management: Degree Summary

  Managing food and beverage service requires keen skills in human resource supervision, finance and customer service. Graduate degree programs that only cover food and beverage management are uncommon, but many schools offer master's degree programs in hospitality management that include studies of food service.

Education ( View 108 Articles )

• Career and Salary Info for a Master of Education Degree

  Earning a Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree opens up new career options for educational professional as well as increases salary potential. Typically, school districts follow a pay grid based on experience and education. A master's degree results in a larger initial salary and greater potential earnings over the course of a teacher's career. In addition to enhancing the practice of teaching in a traditional subject area, the M.Ed. degree can point teachers in new education career directions.

• Course Curriculum of a Master's Degree in Library Science

  Students enrolled in a master's degree in library science program take core classes before enrolling in electives for public library, school media, academic library, special library or other tracks. The course curriculum for a master's degree in library science generally needs to be accredited by the American Library Association.

• Curriculum Development Masters Degree Program Information

  Teachers who complete a master's in curriculum and instruction are prepared to develop educational programs for teachers and students in elementary and secondary schools. Teachers study the appropriate materials for all ages and subjects in great depth in order to find the proper curriculum for the right students.

• Educational Technology Graduate Program Options

  Educational technology refers to the technology used to educate academic students, working professionals and others. Individuals looking for a graduate level degree in educational technology can earn a master's degree or doctorate. A graduate degree in educational technology can open career paths in research, academics and government regulation. The comprehensive study of educational technology involves subjects in computer science, pedagogy and psychology.

• Graduate Courses for Teachers: Course Descriptions

  Teachers enrolled in graduate-level courses may be pursuing their degree in teacher education, either elementary or secondary, or in their specialty subject area. Graduate courses for teachers may be part of master's degree or doctoral degree programs.

Engineering ( View 64 Articles )

• AutoCAD Masters Degree Program Information

  AutoCAD is a brand of computer-aided drafting (CAD) software used to make designs in two or three dimensions. The software is used in architectural and engineering drafting to create realistic images of different designs. Since AutoCAD is a relatively narrow subject, it's only briefly covered in most degree programs, and it may not be discussed at all in master's degree programs. It is covered most extensively at the associate's degree level.

• Automotive Engineering Graduate Schools: How to Choose

  Offered at both the master's and doctoral levels, graduate programs in automotive engineering focus on technological advancements in the automotive industry and on managerial and engineering perspectives on routine vehicle maintenance. Graduates of such programs can expect to work in research, development, managerial and administrative positions.

• Average Tuition Costs for Engineering Graduate School

  Engineering professionals develop new and innovative products and services designed to simplify and improve everyday activities. Engineering graduate schools provide students opportunities to seek advanced careers and earn higher wages.

• Best Telecommunications Masters Programs: List of Schools

  Telecommunications encompass the transfer of information through wired and broadcast technology. Engineering or communications schools host programs in telecommunications, with some programs featuring an interdisciplinary curriculum that includes courses in technology, management and public policy.

• Engineering Graduate Degree Program Options

  Engineering is one of the most wide-ranging areas of study in academia. Most graduate degree programs offer approximately 15 engineering fields from which students can select their major.

Legal ( View 47 Articles )

• Corporate Security Masters Degree Program Information

  Corporate security involves the protection of business assets, personnel and intellectual property from theft and man-made and natural disruptions. If you are planning a career in security, you may want to consider a master's degree in corporate security.

• Criminal Investigations Masters Degree Program Overviews

  To properly investigate a crime requires a thorough understanding of the nature of crime and criminal behavior. Students who wish to pursue a graduate-level education in this field would be well-served by a master's degree in criminology, the scientific study of the causes and control of criminal behavior in society.

• Disaster Management Graduate Programs: Degree Options

  Disaster management graduate degree program options include Master of Science in Emergency Management, Master of Science in Disaster Medicine and Management and Master of Public Health in Disaster Management. Master's degree programs in disaster management are available in online, on-campus and hybrid delivery formats.

• Graduate Certificate in Security Studies: Program Information

  National security has become a popular and essential field of study since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. A graduate certificate in security studies provides the training necessary for a career in many fields, including government positions in national security, defense and intelligence gathering.

• Graduate Programs in Environmental Law: Program Overviews

  Students achieving a law degree might seek to specialize in environmental law with a Juris Doctor in Environmental Law or a Master of Laws in Environmental Law. Such programs provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how to use the legal system to protect the environment.

Liberal Arts and Humanities ( View 59 Articles )

• Behavioral Economics Graduate Programs

  Behavioral economics is an interdisciplinary field concerning how the financial decisions made by individuals and groups differ from their predicted outcomes. Degree programs specifically on behavioral economics are rare, but many master's degree and doctorate programs in economics offer relevant coursework.

• Behavioral Economics Masters Degree Programs

  Behavioral economics, sometimes referred to as business decision research, combines studies in psychology and economic theory to analyze and predict consumer purchasing trends. Master's degree programs specifically covering behavioral economics are rare, but the subject is often covered in general economics programs.

• Best Schools with Ancient History Graduate Programs: List of Schools

  Ancient history graduate programs allow students to conduct original research while studying the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean. While the graduate program at Yale University includes a master's degree in ancient history, the graduate track in this field is intended for students who ultimately pursue the Ph.D. Stanford University awards only a Ph.D.

• Best Schools with Cultural Anthropology Graduate Programs

  Students interested in pursuing a graduate degree in cultural anthropology may want to enter a MA/Ph.D. track program offered by Duke University or the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Through these programs, students can earn both graduate degrees using either Duke's portfolio format or U of W-Madison's traditional curriculum of research, dissertation, and examinations.

• Best Schools with Graduate Programs in Philosophy: List of Schools

  Philosophy is the study of theoretical issues regarding knowledge, morals, logic, the brain, and existence. Several top graduate schools that offer degrees in philosophy.

Mechanic and Repair Technologies ( View 9 Articles )

• Best Schools with Construction Management Graduate Programs

  Usually offered through a university's civil engineering department, construction management programs provide education and training in the process and management of construction, risk and decision making, and construction information technology. Degrees offered include a Master of Science (M.S.), a Master of Engineering (M.Eng.) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.).

• Construction Masters Degree Program Information

  A master's degree in construction management can provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage construction sites or entire construction firms. The most common graduate degree awarded in the field is the Master of Science in Construction Management.

• MBA in Real Estate Property Management: Program Information

  A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is one of the most common types of graduate degree programs and often prepares business students for executive or management positions. An MBA in Real Estate Management provides graduate students with the educational background and training necessary to oversee the operations of real estate and property management organizations.

• Master Plumber: Education Requirements and Career Overview

  In order to become a master plumber, candidates must complete an apprenticeship or academic training. Following several years of supervised on-the-job experience as licensed journeyman plumbers, applicants are eligible for a state-specific licensing exam.

• Masters Degree in Air Conditioning: Program Overview

  Research master's degrees in engineering. Get information on requirements, courses, career prospects and licensure requirements to make an informed decision about your education.

Medical and Health Professions ( View 151 Articles )

• Anesthesiology Graduate Schools: How to Choose

  Anesthesiology is the practice of administering anesthesia and monitoring a patient during surgery. Graduate programs in anesthesiology are available to individuals who already hold a current, valid license as a registered nurse (R.N.) and have completed a bachelor's degree in nursing.

• Art Therapy Graduate School Information: How to Choose a School

  Art therapy utilizes psychoanalysis and artistic creativity as a therapeutic means to evaluate and rehabilitate patients. Graduate programs in art therapy are available as a Master of Arts in Art Therapy or a Master of Professional Studies in Art Therapy.

• Athletic Training Graduate Programs Options

  Athletic trainers are not only experts in health and fitness, but they are allied health professionals who help diagnose and treat injuries and illnesses suffered by those who play sports. Graduate degrees are often preferred by employers because of the need for qualified athletic trainers in this important health care role, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

• Best Health Science Schools for Master's Degree Students

  A health science program provides interdisciplinary study of the healthcare industry. The most common graduate degree in health science is a Master of Health Science (MHS), which helps students increase skills and knowledge in a specific healthcare discipline. Graduates work in various clinical specialties, such as public health, healthcare management and healthcare policy.

• Best Schools with Art Therapy Graduate Programs: List of Schools

  Art became a recognized form of therapy in the 1940s. Art therapy allows patients to use a creative outlet to improve their state of mental health. Students interested in a career as an art therapist should earn a master's degree from a school with an art therapy or related program.

Other ( View 16 Articles )

• Accelerated Masters Degree Programs: How Do They Work?

  Accelerated master's degrees, also referred to as 4+1 degree programs or combined bachelor's/master's programs, are designed to allow students to complete requirements for bachelor's and master's degrees at the same time. Accelerated master's degrees usually take only five years to complete, whereas traditional joint bachelor's/master's programs typically take between 6-7 years to complete.

• Average Starting Salary for a Masters Degree Graduate

  Higher degrees of education tend to lead to higher salaries. The average starting salary for those holding a master's degree will depend on the field of study and the career chosen, among other factors.

• GMAT Courses: Overview of GMAT Prep Courses

  The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is used by some schools to assess applicants of business-related graduate programs. This computerized, national test is used to make sure incoming students are prepared to take on the demanding curriculum of a program. As individuals take the test, the questions are determined by the previous answers to allow for a proper gauge of their abilities and knowledge.

• Graduate Schools Without a GMAT Requirement: Program Overviews

  Schools that do not require students to submit GMAT scores usually have other admissions requirements, such as maintaining a certain grade point average and having several years of on-the-job experience. Many programs also require students to hold a bachelor's or master's degree. Some programs require students to hold a doctoral degree.

• How Long Does IT Take to Get a Masters Degree?

  Many professionals seek a master's degree to further or change a career. Full-time studies may not always be economically feasible for many students, which can increase the length of time required to complete a master's program. Schools now offer several options for students, such as evening and weekend classes, distance learning, part-time attendance and flexible scheduling.

Physical Sciences ( View 6 Articles )

• Graduate Programs in Fishery Management: Degree Options

  The majority of graduate programs in fishing and fishery management are offered through universities in foreign countries that have large coastal areas and strong fishing industries. However, some U.S. schools confer degrees such as a Master of Science in Wildlife and Fisheries Management.

• Masters in Environmental Conservation: Program Overviews

  Those looking to further their careers as environmental engineers, hydrologists or geoscientists can earn a master's degree in environmental conservation. Programs in this field explore public policy, environmental science and a variety of issues dealing with pollution. Many programs also explore biology, agriculture and the natural sciences.

• Masters in Environmental Studies: Program Overview

  Master's degrees in environmental studies are available to students who wish to prepare for careers as environmental scientists. These programs often lead to work in scientific research and can usually be completed in two years or less by full-time students.

• Sound Engineering Master's Degree Program Information

  Sound engineering is the study of recording and reproducing sound through the use of mechanical and computer technology. A master's degree in sound engineering can be found as a concentration in a recording arts and music technology degree program.

• Top Schools with Environmental Science Graduate Programs: List of Schools

  Environmental science graduate degree programs teach students advanced physical and biological sciences, and prepare them for careers that integrate understanding of the principles of such diverse topics as geology, geology and chemistry for the purpose of solving large-scale environmental problems. Most programs are interdisciplinary by nature, and students' work and research can directly influence local, state or federal environmental policy.

Psychology ( View 39 Articles )

• Behavioral Psychology Graduate Program Options

  Behavioral psychology is a psychological perspective that suggests that all aspects of human behavior, including acts, thoughts and feelings, are learned behavior. Behavioral psychology graduate degree programs are available at the master's and doctoral levels.

• Business Psychology Masters Program Information

  Master's degree programs in business psychology, or industrial and organizational (I-O) psychology, as it is commonly known, prepare students to work in human resource and business roles. Those working in this area help to drive organizational change, improve worker satisfaction and hire better workers.

• Counseling Psychology Graduate Program Options

  Graduate degree programs in counseling psychology prepare students to be community, individual and family counselors. Through research in counseling methods and theories and intensive studies in psychology, graduates are prepared to seek state licensure as board certified psychologists.

• Environmental Psychology Masters Program Information

  Environmental psychology is the study of how human beings affect their surroundings. Very few schools offer degree programs in environmental psychology, and most of those that do, offer them at the doctoral level. The most common type of degree in the subject offered at the master's level is a Master of Science in Environmental Psychology.

• Five-Year Bachelor's/Master's Programs in Psychology: An Overview

  Psychology students interested in obtaining both a bachelor's and master's degree in only five years of study may enroll in a combined degree program. These programs may appeal to students who would like to enter the job field after graduation or pursue a doctoral program.

Transportation and Distribution ( View 5 Articles )

• Master of Aeronautical Science: Degree Information

  Individuals who are looking to enter the field of aviation and piloting can pursue master's degrees in aeronautical science. Most graduate aeronautical science programs consist of 33-36 credits and can be completed in under two years by full-time students.

• Master's in Space Studies: Program Overview

  Research space studies master's degree programs. Get information about courses, career options and advanced degree programs to make an informed decision about your education.

• Masters Degree Programs in Transportation and Logistics Management

  Managerial positions in product distribution require knowledge of supply chains and logistics. Interested students can pursue graduate degrees in transportation and logistics management and in supply chain management; Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees with specializations in supply chain management are also available. An accredited bachelor's degree is required for all programs; some programs specify that the undergraduate degree be in business administration.

• Masters in Aviation Law: Program Information

  A master's degree in aviation law does not exist within the United States but is available in Canada and the Netherlands. A Master of Laws (LL.M.) degree and a Master of Science (M.S.) in Airport Management are available in the U.S., and both degrees provide coursework in aviation law. Domestic and international aviation regulations are studied in courses on safety guidelines, security regulations, airport administration and liability issues.

• Top Schools with Aerospace Graduate Programs

  For students in search of a graduate degree in aerospace engineering, there are several strong schools to consider. The California Institute of Technology and Princeton University are among high-ranking schools offering programs in aerospace engineering and related fields, such as aeronautical and astronautical studies.

Visual and Performing Arts ( View 37 Articles )

• Art & Design Masters Degree Program Overviews

  Graduate students who are interested in studying art and design can enroll in a master's degree program with concentrations in fiber and surface design, media and digital imaging, animation or interior design, among others. Graduates of these degree programs are prepared for careers in a variety of fields, including interior, digital and visual design.

• Best Graduate Schools with Acting Programs: List of Schools

  Those looking to pursue a career in film, television or stage acting, or in teaching acting, can receive the knowledge and skills needed through a graduate degree program in the field. . A Master of Arts (M.A.) in the field places an emphasis on academic study; a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) focuses on the creative and practical aspects of acting and is the highest degree one can achieve in the field.

• Best Schools with Cinema Studies Graduate Programs: List of Schools

  A graduate program in cinema studies, also referred to as film studies, is an interdisciplinary study of cinema. Students learn cinematic theory and criticism, and apply them to the art, literature, sociology and philosophy of film. Rather than focusing on the art of filmmaking, a cinema studies degree program emphasizes the significance of film in culture and history. Those with a graduate degree in cinema studies can work in education, research, film archiving, marketing and journalism.

• Best Schools with Ethnomusicology Graduate Programs: List of Schools

  Ethnomusicology is a specific area of musicology that focuses on the social and cultural facets of music and dance both locally and globally. America possesses a number of graduate schools with strong ethnomusicology programs.

• Best Schools with Graduate Programs in Design: List of Schools

  Several graduate programs exist in a variety of design specialties, including graphic, interior and industrial design. Graphic designers use technology to communicate, advertise and create images. Industrial designers work with clients, engineers and marketers to develop consumer goods. Interior designers enhance the function and aesthetics where people live and work. Graduate studies develop advanced knowledge and abilities for students in a selected field.