A master's degree typically takes about 1.5 to 2 years of full-time study to complete, though the duration can vary depending on the program, field of study, and whether the student studies full-time or part-time
. In the United States and Canada, master's programs generally last two years full-time, but some programs can be completed in as little as one year, especially taught master's degrees with fewer credit requirements
. In the UK, a full-time master's degree usually takes one year, but part-time options can extend to two or more years
. The number of credits required also influences the length; most master's programs require between 30 to 60 credit hours, with some programs requiring more, which can extend the time needed to graduate
. Research-based master's degrees may take longer than taught degrees because of the emphasis on independent research rather than coursework
. In summary, the typical length of a master's degree ranges from one to two years for full-time students, with flexibility depending on the program type, credit requirements, and study mode. Part-time study or programs with higher credit loads can take longer, up to three years or more in some cases
