What is an MA (Master of Arts)?

An MA is one of the oldest postgraduate degrees and originates from old teaching qualifications where you'd become a ‘master' of the subject. It's now one of the most common postgraduate qualifications, available for a variety of subjects. Here, we explain exactly what an MA is and why you may choose to study one.

What is an MA?

MA stands for ‘Magister Artium', which is Latin for Master of Arts! You can find universities offering this postgraduate type across the world. In the UK, this is considered a level 7 qualification and will follow on from your undergraduate degree.

Unlike the name may suggest, an MA isn't just an art postgrad! You can find MA degrees across arts, humanities and social sciences, including business degrees and literature degrees.

The difference between a BA and an MA

A BA is a Bachelor of Arts degree and is an undergraduate course, while an MA is a postgraduate degree. Simply, an MA is the next level up from a BA! It's available in the same subject areas and will follow a taught structure you will be used to from your Bachelor's degree. The difference comes from the level of understanding and will have more challenging modules for you to tackle.

MA vs MSc vs MLitt

Some subjects can be offered as an MA or a MSc (Master of Science). This is because some areas of humanities and social sciences can cover more scientific research methods. If you wanted more of a research Master's, then you should look into whether there is an MSc option for your degree.

Similarly, some humanities and literature degrees are awarded as an MLitt (Master of Letters). However, it is only awarded at a select few universities and runs very differently depending on where in the UK you're studying. You can read our guide to MLitt degrees to find out more!

Studying an MA

An MA is a taught Master's which means most of your learning will be knowledge-based with lectures and seminars as well as practical workshops. While your first degree will likely include a wide range of modules covering many areas of your subject, a Master's degree is a lot more specialised. You'll dig deeper into areas that interest you and, in many courses, be able to pick the modules you choose to study.

You'll also be required to submit a dissertation or project at the end of your course. Here, you will showcase the knowledge you gained, submitting research in your chosen area or answering a question posed by your studies. There are usually fewer contact hours than an undergraduate so you'll have plenty of time for independent study to learn more about your chosen subject.

Why study for an MA?

When it comes to selecting to study a postgraduate, you want to make sure that the degree will offer you what you want. Consider how the course will be taught and what it will offer you in terms of career opportunities.

If you have a real passion for your subject, you can explore your interests more in-depth and develop your academic skills. You'll specialise in areas of your study and then present your knowledge in a dissertation or research project that you'll work towards throughout your course. This can help demonstrate the skills needed for a PhD.

MA entry requirements

To apply for an MA, you'll need to hold an undergraduate degree qualification. This is most likely a Bachelor's degree with a 2:1 or higher. If you're coming to the UK from abroad, you'll need to hold the equivalent level of qualification from where you studied.

How to apply for an MA

For the majority of postgraduate courses in the UK, you will need to apply directly through the course provider, with their own application system. Most universities will ask for your academic transcript and your postgraduate personal statement. Some may require other documents such as a portfolio or research proposal.

Take some time to understand the application process for the individual universities and take note of the deadlines - they might be different depending on the course!