When pursuing a master’s degree, you may automatically assume you will need a bachelor’s degree in order to qualify. While this is true in most cases, it is not always the case. Some schools will consider experience when reviewing an application and allow a student to obtain a master’s degree if the experience is determined to be equivalent to what a bachelor’s degree may have offered.

While this is definitely not the norm, it is possible. Below we go into detail regarding which schools allow such programs and what their prerequisites are.

Southern Cross University

Southern Cross University is one example of a higher education institution that will consider real-life work experience when accepting students into a master’s program. In order for a student to qualify, they must have at least five years of experience in a specific field. They will also look at a certificate or associate’s degree if available.

Students who have more than seven years of experience can qualify for their Advanced Standing ranking, which allows students to streamline the degree without needing to take prerequisites to enter the program.

The University of Essex

This University will allow students pursuing an MBA to apply without an undergraduate degree. In order to obtain acceptance into this program, the student must meet a minimum of five years of professional experience in a relative career field. The admissions professionals will review the experience and determine if it is compatible with entrance into the program.

Combination Degrees

If you have a partial bachelor’s degree started and want to continue or advance your education, you can also look into combination degrees. These degrees allow you to pursue a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in tandem but with less time required.

Many online universities also offer these programs online. This makes it ideal for working professionals to advance themselves while still making money or supporting their families. Schools like Brandeis, Simmons, and the University of San Francisco offer these combination degrees.

Advantages of a Bachelor’s Degree Before a Master’s Degree

In many cases, it is more advantageous to acquire a bachelor’s degree before obtaining a master’s degree. This is largely in part due to the fundamental information a bachelor’s degree provides to its students. While experience is also beneficial, educational programs provide students with different perspectives on common problems.

Additionally, having a bachelor’s degree before obtaining a master’s degree is beneficial because it opens the doors to more universities. The number of universities that accept students for a master’s degree without a bachelor’s degree is few and far between. There are hundreds of universities that will consider applicants who already have a bachelor’s degree in their possession when applying for a master’s degree.

A Bachelor’s Degree is Recommended but not Necessary

When it comes down to it, there are opportunities that allow individuals to obtain master’s degrees without a bachelor’s degree. While they do exist, it is always a good idea to obtain a bachelor’s degree as it holds more weight and quality on your resume.