“An MA” is correct because the “m” in “MA” is pronounced “em”. “Em” is a vowel sound so we need to use “an”.
I have an MA degree in Science.
The rule of whether you use “a” or “an” depends on if there is a vowel or consonant sound at the beginning of the next word.
We usually use “an” with words that start with vowels but in this case, we have an acronym that begins with the letter “M”. The letter “M” is pronounced as “em” so it begins with a vowel sound.
We use “an” before words(or in this case a letter) that start with a vowel sound.
You can learn more about “a” and “an” before acronyms here.
Conor is the main writer here at One Minute English and was an English teacher for 10 years. He is interested in helping people with their English skills and learning about using A.I tools at work.
Latest posts by Conor (see all)
- Powerful Synonyms for So: Enhance Your Writing - June 6, 2026
- 8 Top Make Sure Synonym Choices for 2026 - June 5, 2026
- Second Conditional Sentences: An ESL Guide - June 4, 2026
