To say that you completed a master’s degree, the most natural wording is usually “I earned my master’s degree” or “I completed my master’s degree.” Other options can emphasize graduation, qualification, or the specific subject you studied.
Best Wording by Context
- CV or résumé: “I earned a master’s degree in…”
- General statement: “I completed my master’s degree in…”
- After graduation: “I graduated with a master’s degree in…”
- Formal qualification: “I hold a master’s degree in…”
I earned my master’s degree
Natural and strong in American English; it emphasizes successfully obtaining the qualification.
Example: “I earned my master’s degree in psychology in 2024.”
I completed my master’s degree
Neutral and widely understood, emphasizing completion of the course of study.
Example: “I completed my master’s degree while working part-time.”
I graduated with a master’s degree
Best when referring to graduation or the formal award of the degree.
Example: “I graduated with a master’s degree in public health last summer.”
I hold a master’s degree
Professional and concise when the important fact is that you possess the qualification.
Example: “I hold a master’s degree in data science.”
I obtained my master’s degree
Formal and common in professional biographies or applications.
Example: “I obtained my master’s degree from the University of Manchester.”
I received my master’s degree
Natural when referring to the award itself, especially in American English.
Example: “I received my master’s degree in 2025.”
I finished my master’s program
More conversational and focused on finishing the program rather than the formal credential.
Example: “I finished my master’s program in June and started work the following month.”
Master’s or Masters?
When referring to the degree generically, master’s degree normally takes an apostrophe. When naming a specific qualification, use its official form, such as Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Arts (MA).
A Good CV Choice
“I hold a master’s degree in…” is concise in a profile, while the education section itself usually needs only the qualification, subject, institution, and dates.