How to Abbreviate a Masters of Education

With the diploma and gown comes a new title for master's level graduates.
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The master's of education degree is an internationally recognized post-graduate degree. There are several ways to abbreviate a master's degree in education. The correct way depends on the exact degree name that was awarded, the awarding institution's preference or the coursework or program structure the student chose. For example, graduates may earn a master's of science or arts in education, or a master's of education. Some degrees are highly specialized, making it as important to list the major with the degree's abbreviation to clarify where a person's expertise really lies.

    Step 1

    Abbreviate a master's of education degree as M.Ed. if the degree name is specified as a master's of education, not in arts or science first. The M.Ed. is often awarded from college of educations or programs that cater to professional practitioners already working in education. This degree is the entry-level requirement for school administrators in some states. Specializations with this degree include school counseling, school psychology or educational leadership, which may also be specified in the degree title on the diploma.

    Step 2

    Abbreviate a master's of science in education degree as M.S., M.S.Ed., M.S.E. or M.Sc. The degree awarded provides the clues you will need to abbreviate the title. If it says master's of science -- use M.S. If it says master's of science in education -- use M.S.Ed. or M.S.E. Europeans may use M.Sc. To further complicate things, schools like Harvard and M.I.T. use S.M. to abbreviate the master's of science degree. To determine which of theses abbreviations to use, you may even have to research the school or ask the degree holder her preference.

    Step 3

    Abbreviate a master's of arts in education degree as M.A. or M.A.Ed.. The degree awarded tells you which abbreviation to use. If it says master's of arts -- use M.A. If it says master's of arts in education -- use M.A.Ed. Harvard and M.I.T. use A.M. to abbreviate the master's of arts degree.

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