**The Edvocate is pleased to publish guest posts as way to fuel important conversations surrounding P-20 education in America. The opinions contained within guest posts are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official opinion of The Edvocate or Dr. Matthew Lynch.**

A guest column by Brooke Chaplan

Most students with a bachelor’s degree aren’t aware there are popular master degree options that can save both time and money. If you’re looking to further your schooling, don’t get stuck in a rut. Below introduces three of the most popular master’s degrees for teachers who have limited time and unlimited dreams.

An MBA Degree
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the most popular master degree programs are related to business. In fact, almost 200,000 business master’s degrees were granted in 2011-12. A master of business administration (MBA) is a widely popular degree that is offered by almost every online school. MBA degree programs are geared for working business professionals and designed to save a student’s time. MBA degree programs will equip students with the fundamental business concepts needed to move into managerial and upper administrative positions. While most programs take up to two years, accelerated programs can be successfully finished in as little as eighteen months. Most MBA students quickly find employment within a few months of graduation, and enjoy high salaries and career stability.

A Master’s Degree in Education
Students wishing to further their educational career can find a lot of work in schools and higher education. Most allow you to choose from standard specializations, such as early, elementary, secondary, and special education. There are also leadership, administration, and curriculum development specializations available. A master’s degree in education is popular among teachers who are stepping up to fill the high demand for educational leaders with both teaching experience and business acumen. Programs will cover educational research, technology, assessments, and contemporary issues. Most master’s degree programs require the student to complete 36 credit hours, or 12 courses, but can be completed in one to two years if the student attends school full-time.

A Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice
Getting a master’s in criminal justice degree is an excellent academic and career choice. In fact, most schools allow you to choose from earning a master of arts, or a master of science in criminal justice. A master of arts in this study will focus on conceptual fields, such as legal studies, homeland security, public policy, organizational security, and law enforcement administration. The masters of science in criminal justice offers more flexibility and specializations, such as cyber-crime, behavior analysis, and forensic psychology. Regardless of the choice, a master’s degree here will provide students with unique career opportunities. Don’t forget that there are also accelerated programs available for students with good grades.

Those wishing to pursue a master’s degree have excellent academic choices, including business, education, and criminal justice that can get you into a better career. Don’t let a new job pass you by because you don’t have time to go to school. With these options you can save time and money in your future career.

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Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and blogger. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She loves the outdoors and spends most her time hiking, biking and gardening.