If you’ve ever typed “master’s degree or masters degree” into Google, you’re not alone. Many people are confused about the correct spelling. Is the apostrophe necessary? Does it change depending on where you live? This article clears up the confusion and gives practical advice for writing it correctly.
Whether you’re applying to universities, writing resumes, or preparing academic documents, knowing the correct usage is important. Some think both forms are acceptable, but there are differences between British and American English. Understanding these differences can help you write confidently and avoid mistakes in professional or academic contexts.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know when to use master’s degree with an apostrophe, when masters degree without an apostrophe is acceptable, and which spelling works best depending on your audience. We’ll also provide examples, comparisons, and common errors to help you write with ease.
Master’s Degree or Masters Degree – Quick Answer
The correct form in most cases is “master’s degree” with an apostrophe.
- ✅ Example: She earned her master’s degree in psychology.
- ❌ Incorrect: She earned her masters degree in psychology.
The apostrophe shows possession: the degree belongs to a master. Some style guides, especially in British English, sometimes drop the apostrophe, which leads to the alternative masters degree.
The Origin of Master’s Degree
The term “master” dates back to medieval universities in Europe. Students earned a Master of Arts (MA) after completing advanced studies, which indicated mastery of a subject.
The possessive form “master’s degree” comes from this origin—it’s literally the degree of a master. Over time, spelling conventions evolved, and “masters degree” without an apostrophe appeared, especially in formal British publications.
British English vs American English Spelling
Spelling rules differ between American and British English:
| Feature | American English | British English |
|---|---|---|
| Correct Spelling | master’s degree | master’s degree or masters degree |
| Use of Apostrophe | Always in formal writing | Sometimes omitted in formal UK contexts |
| Example | She received her master’s degree. | She received her masters degree. |
Key point: In American English, the apostrophe is standard. In British English, both forms are often accepted, though style guides may prefer the apostrophe.
Which Spelling Should You Use?
- United States: Always use master’s degree.
- United Kingdom / Commonwealth countries: master’s degree is preferred, but masters degree may appear in university materials.
- Global Audience: When writing for international readers, master’s degree is safer.
Tip: If unsure, check the style guide of the organization or institution you’re writing for.
Common Mistakes with Master’s Degree
- Dropping the apostrophe in US English
- ❌ I earned my masters degree in 2020.
- ✅ I earned my master’s degree in 2020.
- Capitalization errors
- ❌ She has a Master’s degree in math.
- ✅ She has a master’s degree in Math.
- Confusing plural “masters” with possessive “master’s”
- ❌ He has two masters degrees.
- ✅ He has two master’s degrees.
Master’s Degree in Everyday Examples
- Emails: I am writing to inform you that I have completed my master’s degree in Business Administration.
- News Articles: The university awarded 500 master’s degrees this year.
- Social Media: Finally got my master’s degree! Feeling accomplished.
- Formal Writing: Applicants must hold a master’s degree in the relevant field to qualify.
Master’s Degree – Google Trends & Usage Data
Google Trends shows high search volume for “master’s degree” worldwide, especially in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. Searches peak around graduation season.
Context matters: Academic queries, job applications, and scholarship applications often use master’s degree with the apostrophe, while informal British sources sometimes drop it.
Comparison Table: Keyword Variations
| Variation | Correct? | Region/Context |
|---|---|---|
| master’s degree | ✅ Correct | US, UK, global professional |
| masters degree | ⚠️ Acceptable | Some UK contexts |
| Masters Degree | ⚠️ Sometimes | Capitalized in headings |
| master degree | ❌ Incorrect | Avoid |
FAQs
1. Is “masters degree” wrong?
Not always. It’s sometimes accepted in UK writing but not in US English. Master’s degree is safer.
2. Do I need an apostrophe?
Yes, in most cases. It shows possession: the degree belongs to a master.
3. Can I capitalize it?
Only capitalize in headings or when part of a formal title.
4. How do I write multiple degrees?
Use plural form with apostrophe: He has two master’s degrees.
5. What about PhD vs. doctorate?
A PhD is a type of doctoral degree, while a master’s degree is one level below. Use similar possessive rules.
6. Is it different in Canada or Australia?
They follow UK conventions. Master’s degree is standard, but masters degree may appear in informal contexts.
7. How should I write it in a CV?
Always use master’s degree with lowercase, unless in headings.
Conclusion
Understanding whether to write master’s degree or masters degree is essential for academic and professional writing. The apostrophe in master’s degree shows possession, making it grammatically correct in most cases.
American English consistently uses the apostrophe, while British English sometimes allows dropping it. If your audience is international or professional, master’s degree is always safe. Be mindful of capitalization, plural forms, and consistency in your documents.
By following these rules and checking context, you can write confidently and avoid common mistakes. Whether in emails, CVs, news articles, or social media, master’s degree is the spelling that communicates professionalism and accuracy.
