MA students typically cover expenses through a combination of student loans, private funds, and employer support (for those who are already in careers). Please refer to the information below regarding tuition, fees, and financial support.

Tuition and Fees

The Office of the Registrar lists the tuition and fees schedule for MA students. (see "Graduate: Professional - Graduate Division - Statistics"). All tuition and fees are subject to change. The Student Health Insurance Plan is optional.

Financial Support

M.A. Department Financial Support

We are committed to ensuring that our professional degree supplemental tuition does not limit anyone’s opportunity to join our program.

From the 2019-2020 academic year through the 2023-2024 academic year, we have returned over $2.1 million in financial aid for our students. This support comes in the form of two scholarships: the Betty Scott Excellence Scholarship and the Opportunity Award.

We encourage students from all backgrounds to apply for our professional master’s degree. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a working professional, or someone with unique life experiences, we welcome your application. Our goal is to foster a diverse and inclusive community.

Financial aid is available to those facing various challenges, including:

• Eligibility for a Pell grant during your undergraduate studies
• Substantial student loan debt
• Recent economic setbacks or hardships

Additionally, we recognize the value of diverse life experiences. We consider applicants who have:

• Limited access to educational resources
• Represented geographic diversity
• Overcome economic disadvantage
• Demonstrated persistence and strength by supporting themselves during their education
• Shown commitment to supporting underserved communities

If you’re applying for the 2024/2025 academic year, please provide a brief explanation of your financial need when prompted in the application. We’re here to support you on your academic journey!

Betty Scott Excellence Scholarship & Opportunity Award

The Betty Scott Scholarship is awarded to applicants who make contributions to diversity in STEM, show a commitment to public good, and demonstrate a previous and/or future dedication to the public/non-profit sector. The Opportunity Award is given to applicants who demonstrate financial need, and/or to those whose background and life experiences contribute significantly to enhancing educational diversity.

Graduate Opportunity Program (GOP) Master's Fellowship Award

This award provides financial assistance for an entering student whose background, interests, or goals serve to enhance the level of diversity within the graduate community. GOP awards are based on financial need, academic promise, diversity contribution and are available to US citizens, permanent residents, and AB540 applicants who are entering a terminal master’s or professional degree program. The awards consists of a $10,000 stipend ($5,000 per semester) and in-state fees for one academic year.

Paid Teaching or Research Assistantships

Graduate Student Researcher (GSR) appointments are reserved for PhD students; however, a limited number of Graduate Student Instructor (GSI) opportunities are available for MA students each semester. MA students are informed of these opportunities before each semester; at which point they can apply for a position if they wish. Selection will be based on teaching experience, English proficiency, performance in the MA program, the student’s schedule, and approval by the MA faculty chair. Please be aware that new GSIs are required to take a pedagogy course, over and above the regular coursework of the MA program.

Living Expenses

The UC Berkeley Financial Aid Office currently estimates living expenses for graduate students for the upcoming academic year. This includes housing, utilities, food, books, supplies, personal, and transportation costs. Your expenses may be lower or higher depending on your lifestyle.

Additional Financial Resources

If you need additional funding or would like an overview of all the financial aid options available to you, including scholarships, loans, aid for students with dependents, and more, visit the UC Berkeley financial aid website.