Master of Arts

Master of Arts (abbreviated M.A., and sometimes, particularly in America, A.M.) is a degree conferred by universities and some colleges. In the universities of England this title follows that of Bachelor (q.v.). The dignity of Master (Magister artium liberalium) was held in high esteem in the middle ages. In Germany it is now obsolete, having been superseded by that of doctor. A Master has the right to vote in congregation or convocation at Oxford, and in the senate at Cambridge, and consequently enjoys the university franchise; in the Scottish universities all Masters are members of the General Council, and as such elect the parliamentary representatives for the university. See DEGREES.