Courses in a systems theory program provide students with useful skills that can be applied to many different careers. Class focuses include problem solving and creative thinking. Students also learn how to remain organized and meet deadlines on large projects.

Master-level studies involve specialized study in a field of research or an area of professional practice. Earning a master’s degree demonstrates a higher level of mastery of the subject.
Earning a master’s degree can take anywhere from a year to three or four years. Before you can graduate, you usually must write and defend a thesis, a long paper that is the culmination of your specialized research.