master of arts: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, academic
Quick answer
What does “master of arts” mean?
A postgraduate academic degree awarded by universities, typically in a humanities or social science discipline.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A postgraduate academic degree awarded by universities, typically in a humanities or social science discipline.
A person who holds such a degree. The term can also be used historically to denote a qualified scholar, or humorously to describe someone who appears overly academic.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, an MA can often be a 'taught' degree (coursework and dissertation) or a 'research' degree, and at older universities like Oxford and Cambridge, the MA is sometimes awarded automatically to BA graduates after a certain period and payment of a fee, without further study. In the US, an MA is exclusively a postgraduate degree earned through coursework and/or a thesis after a bachelor's degree.
Connotations
In the UK, the historical 'Oxbridge MA' can carry a slight connotation of tradition and privilege. In the US, it is seen purely as an earned academic achievement.
Frequency
The full phrase 'Master of Arts' is most frequent in formal contexts (diplomas, official documents). In everyday speech, the abbreviation 'MA' (UK) or 'MA/M.A.' (US) is far more common.
Grammar
How to Use “master of arts” in a Sentence
[Person/Institution] awarded [Person] a Master of Arts in [Subject].[Person] holds a Master of Arts.[Person] is reading for a Master of Arts at [University] (UK).Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “master of arts” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- She is an MA candidate.
- The MA programme requirements are listed here.
American English
- She is an M.A. student.
- He has an M.A.-level understanding of the topic.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used. Might appear on a CV or in formal introductions: 'Our new consultant, a Master of Arts from Cambridge...'
Academic
Primary context. Used in course descriptions, degree certifications, university statutes, and formal academic writing.
Everyday
The abbreviation 'MA' is common. The full title is used for clarity or emphasis: 'Is it a Master of Science or a Master of Arts?'
Technical
Used in the specific context of higher education administration, accreditation, and academic regulations.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “master of arts”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “master of arts”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “master of arts”
- Incorrect: 'Master in Arts'. Correct: 'Master of Arts' or 'MA in Arts'.
- Incorrect capitalisation in running text when not referring to the specific degree title (e.g., 'she has a master of arts' is sometimes acceptable).
- Confusing it with 'Master of Science' (MSc/MS).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, 'MA' (or 'M.A.') is the standard abbreviation for 'Master of Arts'. The abbreviation is used far more frequently in everyday language.
Typically, no. Science subjects usually award a 'Master of Science' (MSc or MS). The Master of Arts is traditionally for humanities, social sciences, theology, and fine arts. However, some universities (especially older ones like Oxford and Cambridge) award MAs for some subjects that elsewhere might be an MSc.
In the UK, a full-time taught MA usually takes one year. In the US, it typically takes two years of full-time study. Part-time study will take longer.
You write 'a Master of Arts' because the word 'Master' begins with a consonant sound (/m/). The rule depends on sound, not spelling.
A postgraduate academic degree awarded by universities, typically in a humanities or social science discipline.
Master of arts is usually formal, academic in register.
Master of arts: in British English it is pronounced /ˌmɑːstər əv ˈɑːts/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌmæstər əv ˈɑrts/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A Master of Arts in procrastination (humorous, informal).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'MA' = 'Mastering Arts'. You master a field within the arts or humanities.
Conceptual Metaphor
EDUCATION IS A JOURNEY (pursue a Master's), KNOWLEDGE IS A POSSESSION (hold a Master's), STATUS IS HEIGHT (a higher degree).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the full phrase 'Master of Arts' MOST likely to be used?