In an earlier number of the journal, we dealt with the general principles that the Brazilian Federal Agency for Support and Evaluation of Graduate Education (Capes) believes should be respected in promoting professional masters programs (MP). Here, we attempt to define more clearly the diference between the MP and graduate study “lato sensu”, emphasizing the principle that all “stricto sensu” programs should offer a qualitative advance in the academic development of the student and not just the specialization, updating or expansion of his or her level of knowledge.