The "Husband" or "Master" of a field evolved into the college post-graduate Masters Degree. A 4-year college is designed to primarily produce Bachelors of different fields of endeavor.
Many students continue more specific studies past the 4-year degree as post-graduates. They study to become a master of specialization within that area of knowledge.
The Honorary Masters Degree is awarded for the experiences the individual deals with from day to day, without the demands of long term courses.