Modern master's program (master or magistrate) is both the improvement of his knowledge in a number of certain branches of science, and a serious step towards building a successful career, and quite a possible improvement in the quality of life or material well-being in the future. These reasons are pushing for a second higher education and the receipt of such a document as a master's degree, both young and mature people.
Masters in ancient Rome called officials. Later in Europe, the heads of various church or secular institutions were considered masters. Universities of the Middle Ages already offered after training to receive several degrees: master's degree, bachelor's and doctor of philosophy. However, in some countries, instead of a master's degree, there was a license. And in 1240, the rights of masters expanded significantly - from now on they had the opportunity to elect the rector of the university.
In Russia, a diploma, a magistrate degree appeared at the beginning of the 19th century along with the decree of Alexander I. At the same time, the title of doctor was introduced, and a little later - the candidate. The master occupied a middle position between the candidate (the one who graduated from the university with excellent marks) and the doctor. He could get the position and rank of titular adviser. In revolutionary times, at the beginning of the 20th century, all ranks were abolished, and they returned only to the 90s.
Today, a master's program in Russia and in the territory of the countries of the former Soviet Union is a course of study lasting 1-2 years, which is most often focused on research, scientific work. You can get a state master’s diploma only at universities with an appropriate level of accreditation (at least IV) and the technical capabilities to complete the final work.
Admission to the magistracy is only available with a bachelor's degree in the same specialty or in the same direction. The training program includes a theoretical course and independent studies led by a supervisor. Everything ends with final certification (defense of a dissertation, as a result of scientific research, and passing relevant exams).
In the USA, far from all universities have the right to assign a master's degree, but only those that have passed the necessary certification and have mandatory training programs. A master’s diploma is obtained after 1-2 years of passing a certain series of courses with final marks of at least “B” (“good”). Therefore, before paying tuition fees, you should weigh your strength in the selected subjects well. The implementation of scientific work by a graduate student under the guidance of a professor or even the advice of professors is not required at all universities. But if there is such a requirement, then the future master is required to have a creative approach and original, non-standard thinking.
In any country, being in the magistracy, you can undergo all kinds of trainings with full insight into the real political, economic, cultural or social situation. Such experience and knowledge will become indispensable in the future when developing a strategy of one’s own life and career.
A graduate holding a master's degree is always more highly regarded by the employer!