In many countries, graduate study in music education plays an important role in supporting music teachers. The reasons for this are numerous, ranging from professional development and licensure to engagement with research, salary enhancement, administrative training preparation for doctoral study and much more besides. Given the availability of this advanced learning in so many countries around the world, it is clear that there are many different philosophies, practices and purposes based on history, culture, perspective, teachers, schools, and diverse needs and circumstances.This presentation focuses on master's degrees in three countries: Spain, Germany and the United States. For each, there will be a short description of the programmes (MM, MME, MAT, and others), a general idea of the goals, admissions, requirements, coursework, projects, and purposes they serve for students and the profession. From there, general comparisons (Clausen, 2011; Kertz-Welzel, 2014) and shared objectives and outcomes will be discussed, along with benefits and challenges of graduate work in our field. As time permits, there will also be an opportunity for audience dialogue and discussion.The authors of this text are highly experienced in this field, having worked in several different countries. One of them has degrees and has taught at universities in Spain and Germany, while working with colleagues in several other countries. The second author has worked on one of the largest online master's programmes in the United States, which has produced over 800 graduates from all 50 states. He has also travelled to dozens of other countries and researched degree programmes in several of them.It is hoped this type of session highlights the value of advanced study in music education, how it can support teachers, and ultimately improve student musical learning and experiences. In line with the conference topic, this paper aims to stimulate discussion about the potential of drawing on each programme and consider whether and how this could contribute to the development of the music teaching system. This would build bridges between countries and have a positive impact on music education.