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According to 2019 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), master’s degree-holders earn twice as much as workers with just a high school diploma — $1,497 and $746, respectively. Although the difference in weekly median earnings between a bachelor’s degree-holder and a master’s degree-holder is not as stark — $1,248 and $1,497, respectively — it still comes to a significant amount when accrued over time.
The same data reveals that a master’s degree also serves as an effective hedge against unemployment. The BLS reports the unemployment rates for workers with a high school diploma and those with a bachelor’s degree to be at 3.7% and 2.2%, respectively. Master’s degree-holders show an unemployment of only 2%.
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Recommended Online Programs
In addition to higher income potential and lower unemployment rates, an online master’s degree comes with the added advantages of flexibility. These include multiple start dates and asynchronous delivery formats, as well as no added transportation or on-campus housing costs.
This guide contains information on online graduate schools that readers can use in choosing the most beneficial master’s program to pursue.
Top 10 Most Affordable Online Graduate Schools for a Master’s Degree
The amount of time it takes to complete a master’s degree depends on factors such as a student’s enrollment status and program requirements. However, students complete most master’s programs in 1-3 years.
What GPA is needed for a master’s degree?
The required GPA for master’s programs varies between schools and between programs in the same institution. Generally, students must show a GPA of 3.0 or higher to be considered for admission to a master’s program.
Are online degrees credible?
Yes. Accredited institutions do not distinguish between their online and on-campus offerings. Online and onsite students enroll in the same classes taught by the same teachers and submit the same course requirements.
What Are the Goals of an Online Graduate Degree?
As mentioned above, pursuing a master’s degree online often means greater flexibility and, ultimately, a more affordable program. Most online programs also offer convenience by providing multiple start dates and following a rolling admissions policy. Prospective enrollees do not need to wait until the following spring or fall to begin their studies, which also means they can earn the degree sooner.
Online graduate schools understand that applicants often need to juggle multiple responsibilities at work and in their personal lives. Online study options such as full-time or part-time enrollment, accelerated programs, and asynchronous classes give busy individuals the opportunity to earn a postgraduate degree.
Why Get an Online Graduate Degree?
Going back to school for postgraduate studies requires a significant investment of time and financial resources. However, for an increasing number of individuals, the decision to pursue a master’s degree online makes sense in light of several reasons, which often include the five enumerated below.
Improve Professional Options
Master’s degree-holders often qualify for top managerial and administrative roles because employers know they possess the knowledge, training, and leadership qualities typically required in such positions.
Greater Responsibility
With their training and expertise, master’s degree-holders can assume more responsibilities in any role they take on, which often leads to a more visible professional profile and a higher salary.
Keep Knowledge Current and Relevant
Pursuing an online master’s program is an excellent and efficient way to update industry knowledge, develop meaningful professional networks, and keep up with the latest advances in one’s field of practice.
Increase Credibility
A master’s degree presents the holder as a credible source of information related to their industry.
Doctoral Program Requirement
Professionals who wish to pursue a doctoral degree often need to complete a master’s program for consideration.
What Are the Requirements for an Online Graduate Degree?
Common admission requirements for accredited master’s programs include relevant test scores from graduate entrance exams such as the GRE or GMAT, high school or college-level GPA of at least 3.0, and letters of recommendation. Science-focused or technical programs may require the completion of specific courses. Programs in art or dance may require applicants to submit a portfolio of their work thus far.
Graduation requirements vary, with some programs requiring a thesis for completion and others requiring candidates to submit a capstone project or pass a comprehensive exam. Some online graduate schools offer coursework-only master’s programs, which means students do not need to complete a culminating activity to graduate.
Accredited institutions often offer financial assistance to qualified students, especially at the postgraduate level. However, students interested in pursuing a master’s degree online or on site can find funding options from private agencies and professional organizations. The list of five scholarship programs below target master’s degree-seekers.
Who Can Apply: The program, administered by the American Association of University Women, welcomes applications from female graduate students from historically underrepresented groups. Applicants must be pursuing a graduate degree in business administration, law, or medicine. AAUW stipulates that business administration applicants must be in their second year of study, law students in their third year, and medical degree enrollees in their third or fourth year of enrollment. Amount: $5,000-$18,000
Who Can Apply: Alpha Kappa Alpha Educational Advancement Foundation accepts applications from full-time graduate students pursuing an accredited program in any field. A need-based scholarship, applicants must submit proof of financial need. Applicants must also submit a description of their research or project and have a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Amount: Varies
Who Can Apply: Graduate students pursuing a graduate degree in the arts, humanities, and social sciences at an accredited institution can apply for this scholarship opportunity. Recipients must utilize the scholarship amount within five years of completing their undergraduate program. The program awards $4,000 to scholars immediately upon being selected for the scholarship. Amount: $30,000
Who Can Apply: The Foundation welcomes graduate-student applicants from one of the following ethnic groups: African American, Asian American/Pacific Islander, Hispanic/Latino, or Native American/Alaska Native. Applicants must show proof of full-time enrollment (at least nine credits/semester) in an advertising, marketing, or public relations graduate program. The Foundation requires a minimum 3.2 GPA of all applicants. Amount: $3,750
Who Can Apply: Students pursuing an accredited graduate program with an emphasis in human resources can apply for this scholarship opportunity funded by the NAHR Foundation. Applicants must show a minimum GPA of 3.5 and be a member in good standing of the Society for Human Resource Management. Applicants must show completion of at least six credits toward their degree at the time of application. Amount: $5,000
Most Affordable Online Graduate Schools for a Master’s Degree 2021
UF offers over 200 undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs online, including 84 master's degrees in diverse areas of study. At UF's Warrington College of Business, students can enroll in a one-year or two-year online master of business administration (MBA) program. Applicants need a bachelor's degree in business from an accredited college or university. They must have earned their degree within seven years of applying.
The College of Education offers a master of education (M.Ed.) in curriculum and instruction with specializations in education technology and teacher leadership for school improvement. The college also offers an online master's degree in educational leadership. The programs accept full-time and part-time enrollees, with many students earning their M.Ed. within two years. UF's educator preparation programs have been continuously accredited since 1954.
The Kremen School of Education and Human Development at CSU Fresno offers a fully online master's degree in reading and language arts instruction. Students enroll in one three-credit class every eight weeks.
The program includes supervised field experiences in a variety of educational settings. During these experiences, enrollees can observe actual classes, evaluate and develop reading programs, and work with specialists in the field. To culminate the degree, students can write a thesis, complete a project, or take a comprehensive exam.
CSU Fresno also offers an online master of science in water resource management. The 30-credit program consists of eight three-credit courses and an internship and final project. Applicants need an upper-division 3.0 GPA or higher. Like at many online graduate schools, applicants must also demonstrate GIS proficiency and submit their most recent GRE scores.
IU currently offers 158 online programs in diverse fields of study, including library science, public affairs and administration, health and health sciences, and informatics. Most of IU's online master's degrees do not require any campus visits.
The master's in global health and sustainable development requires 30 credits and follows a curriculum based on the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. Students can choose from six concentrations, including food, water, and sanitation; preservation and restoration of land and sea; and resilient cities and communities.
Enrollees interested in pursuing a career in the information security field can explore the 30-credit online master's in cybersecurity risk management program. The curriculum covers topics such as data intelligence and visualization, managing intellectual property in global businesses, and information privacy laws.
UT's Cockrell School of Engineering offers a completely online master's degree in mechanical engineering. The 30-credit program does not require a thesis. Most students graduate within two years.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field and at least one year of relevant professional experience. The program typically requires the submission of GRE scores. However, students can request a waiver for the fall 2021 semester. Currently, the program does not accept transfer credits.
The curriculum includes coursework in applied thermodynamics; modeling, simulation, and control of physical systems; fluid mechanics in industrial processes; and heat transfer in industrial systems. The school maintains a career placement center that assists online and on-campus students in finding employment opportunities after graduation.
AU offers several online graduate programs that lead to master of arts (MA) and master of science (MS) degrees in a variety of fields. Students can pursue postgraduate studies in areas like education, human resources, economics, and healthcare management.
The 30-credit MA in strategic communications offers concentrations in advocacy and social impact as well as strategies and analytics in digital communication. Students enroll in two classes each semester to graduate in 20 months.
AU also offers a 36-credit online master's degree in public administration and policy. Coursework covers topics such as organizational analysis, managing human capital assets, foundations of program evaluation, and leadership in a changing workplace.
The university's Career Center offers many services for online and onsite enrollees, including employer recruiting events, career advisement, and internship and scholarship information. AU offers a $10,000 merit-based scholarship to select online students.
UConn's online master's programs cover diverse areas of study, including educational technology, special education, human resource management, and engineering.
Accounting professionals looking for an accredited postgraduate program can explore UConn's online master's in accounting program, which is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The program offers a variety of electives that allow enrollees to customize the degree according to their academic and career objectives.
UConn also offers an interdisciplinary online master's in energy and environmental management with courses in planning and management, geographical information systems, and environment law. Required courses only make up nine credits of the 30-credit program, allowing enrollees to pursue an educational path that supports their individual goals and interests.
UConn offers two online nursing programs for nurses seeking to expand their employment options or transition to a new nursing arena. Registered nurses can pursue an online family nurse practitioner or neonatal nursing program.
JBU in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, offers online master's programs in business, counseling, cybersecurity, and education.
Students can pursue a two-year master of business administration completely online or through a combination of online and onsite coursework. The program comprises 36-45 credits, depending on enrollees' academic background. Students can choose from concentrations in cybersecurity, healthcare administration, design thinking and innovation, international business, leadership, and marketing research and consumer insights.
JBU also offers a 60-credit master's in counseling that prepares graduates for the licensed professional counselor credential in Arkansas. The program offers specializations in marriage and family therapy, play therapy, and adventure therapy. The school also offers online master's degrees in higher education and teaching, as well as an online master of education (M.Ed.) in special education. The master's in higher education program runs fully online, while the master's in teaching and the M.Ed. in special education follow a hybrid delivery format.
Clemson offers online master's programs in 15 areas of study, including construction science management, athletic leadership, human resource development, and biological sciences. Students must live in states that are part of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement to qualify for the school's online programs.
Learners interested in pursuing an online master of education can choose from three specializations: literacy, special education, or teaching and learning. The school's 30-credit online master's program in engineering runs asynchronously. Applicants need at least three years of relevant professional experience.
Clemson's online master of public administration program offers specializations in emergency management, homeland defense and security, local and state government, nonprofit management, and regional sustainability. The program requires 39-42 credits, depending on the student's choice of culminating activity.
USD offers online master's programs in fields such as healthcare informatics, education, cybersecurity operations and leadership, and applied data science.
The school's online master of education program welcomes applications from K-12 teachers with at least two years of experience. Students can specialize in curriculum and instruction, inclusive learning, literacy and digital learning, school leadership, or STEAM education.
USD also offers a 31-credit master of science in cybersecurity operations and leadership. Students can complete the program in just 20 months. The curriculum includes courses on topics such as applied cryptology, secure software design and development, and network visualization and vulnerability detection.
IT professionals with an interest in artificial intelligence can pursue the 30-credit master's in applied artificial intelligence offered by the Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering. The program focuses on the practical applications of AI in various industries.
WCU offers a 36-credit online master of project management (MPM) that students can complete without any campus visits. The MPM program is accredited by the Global Accreditation Center for Project Management Education Programs, the accrediting branch of the Project Management Institute.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and at least two years of professional experience. Students follow a pre-set course sequence that allows them to graduate within two years. The program requires summer enrollment. Each MPM course counts for six credits. Learners can begin the program in August or January.
The curriculum includes classes in project selection, initiation, and legal considerations; project execution; and project closeout, ethics, and approaches. MPM candidates must maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher in all classes.
CSU's online master's programs encompass diverse academic arenas including arts and music, computer science and technology, health and human sciences, education, and engineering.
Some programs, such as the master of music in music therapy and the master of social work, require on-campus visits, which typically occur in the summer. However, students can complete most programs 100% online. The online master of applied statistics requires 31 credits and offers specializations in data science and statistical science. The program begins in the summer term and takes one year to complete.
CSU's master of business administration program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Students can pursue a general curriculum or specialize in marketing data analytics. Engineering students can pursue an online master's degree in eight areas, including biomedical, civil, computer, mechanical, or systems engineering.
Gallaudet offers four online master's programs. The advanced studies in deaf education master's program welcomes applications from state-licensed teachers of deaf and hard- of-hearing students. Teachers with provisional certification in the field can also apply to the program. Enrollees can pursue a specialization in educating students with disabilities or in American Sign Language and English bilingual early childhood education. The program does not lead to professional licensure.
The 69-credit master's in clinical mental health counseling follows a hybrid delivery format. Students enroll in onsite classes during the program's initial year. In the second year, students take online courses and complete fieldwork. The degree prepares students to sit for the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification. Learners typically take this exam during their last semester.
FIT offers online master's programs in business, organizational leadership, information assurance and cybersecurity, and supply chain management. Business students can pursue a general master of business administration (MBA) or choose from 10 specializations, including healthcare management, project management in information technology, or accounting and finance. The MBA requires 36 credits.
The 33-credit master's in organizational leadership program does not require applicants to submit GRE or GMAT scores. Most students graduate within two years.
FIT offers fully online master of science degrees in supply chain management and information assurance and cybersecurity. Both programs require 30 credits. Supply chain management students take classes on topics like product development, inventory management, product development, and performance metrics. Information assurance and cybersecurity enrollees take courses in biometric authentication technologies, secure operating systems, and cryptography and information hiding.
WIU's online master's programs allow students to pursue studies in business, education, public safety administration, music, and instructional design and technology.
The online master of science in education offers four specializations: curriculum and instruction, educational studies, reading, and special education. The school also offers an online master's in educational studies. The school's online master of business administration (MBA) program offers concentrations in management and supply chain management. Students can complete the 33-credit program in just 18 months. The MBA program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Applicants to the online master's in public safety administration need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and at least 18 prior credits in criminal justice or law enforcement. Learners can complete a thesis or non-thesis program. The online master's in instructional design and technology offers online coursework and in-person classes, which often occur on weekends.
Based in Chicago, Illinois, DePaul offers 21 online master's programs in diverse areas of study, including nursing, business information technology, and educational leadership. The 36-credit online master of science in accountancy follows a curriculum set by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The program comprises 12 courses and prepares graduates to sit for the certified public accountant exam.
The university also offers online master's degrees in fields such as business information technology, computer science, and data science. While the online master's in educational leadership program offers eight concentrations, only the higher education concentration is available online. Students can pursue a master of arts or a master of education in higher education.
Students accepted to the master's in public service program can concentrate in one of four areas: emergency management, healthcare administration, metropolitan planning and urban affairs, or higher education administration.
Bradley's online master's in counseling program offers concentrations in clinical mental health and professional school counseling. The 60-credit master's program includes one practicum experience, two internships, and two one-week on-campus residencies. The program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.
Bradley also offers an online master's in nursing with a family nurse practitioner (FNP) concentration. The program prepares graduates for FNP certification administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. The program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
FNP candidates complete a study plan (50-60 credits) that includes coursework in advanced pharmacology, health informatics, and evidence-based practice. The total number of credits for the degree depends on a student's academic background. The program also includes five supervised clinical practicum experiences. Online enrollees complete clinical requirements within their geographical area.
IIT offers several online master's programs in areas such as engineering, business administration, food safety and technology, and health physics.
The school's master of business administration program requires 30-36 credits. Applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with an undergraduate 3.0 GPA or higher. The program also requires applicants to submit GRE or GMAT scores and demonstrate at least five years of professional experience.
Students can choose from several online master of advanced studies (MAS) programs in fields such as biological engineering, cyber forensics and security, industrial technology and operations, and materials chemistry. The 30-credit MAS in network engineering takes one year to complete.
IIT offers a 32-credit master of engineering in public works that prepares graduates for jobs as city engineers and public works administrators. The program encourages students to enroll in classes in geotechnical engineering, public administration, and construction management.
Many of UTA's online master's programs feature multiple start dates throughout the year and fully online formats. The online master of science in nursing offers specializations in nursing administration, nursing education, and nurse practitioner. Students on the nurse practitioner track can further specialize in family health nursing, pediatric primary and acute care, or adult gerontology primary and acute care.
UTA's master of education in curriculum and instruction offers concentrations in literacy studies, mathematics, and science education. Educators can also pursue a master's in educational leadership and policy studies.
Students pursuing the online master of business administration can opt to pursue a general program or a specialization in finance, healthcare, or management. UTA also offers a 39-credit online master's degree in urban and public affairs certified by the Network of Schools of Public Affairs and Administration.
Samford offers online master's programs in business administration, law, education, public health, and nursing. Offered through the Brock School of Business, the online master of business administration (MBA) program offers optional concentrations in data analytics, finance, entrepreneurship, and marketing. MBA candidates must complete 36-45 credits and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA to graduate.
The School of Public Health offers master's programs in healthcare administration, health informatics, nutrition, public health, and social work. The school also coordinates a joint MBA/master of healthcare administration program with the Brock School of Business. Full-time enrollees can complete both degrees entirely online in three years.
Educators can pursue a master of science in education through the Orlean Beeson School of Education. The master's program offers concentrations in elementary education and gifted education.
WVU offers several online master's programs. The College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences offers master's programs in physical education teacher education, sport coaching, and sport management. The College of Education and Human Services offers online master's programs in higher education administration and multi-categorical special education.
The master of social work (MSW) program features regular and advanced-standing tracks. The advanced-standing MSW requires 12 courses (36 credits), while the regular standing MSW requires 19 courses (57 credits). Both programs focus on the delivery of social work services in rural areas.
WVU also offers a 47-credit master's in health administration (MHA) through the School of Public Health. A flexible program, the MHA allows students to pursue full-time or part-time enrollment. Enrollees can complete the required internship in their local community.
Texas Tech offers online master's programs in diverse fields of study, including engineering, agriculture, education, and business administration. The school offers online master of education degrees in five areas: curriculum and instruction, special education, higher education administration, educational leadership, and instructional technology.
The College of Media and Communication offers a 36-credit master of arts in communication. To culminate the degree, students can choose to write a thesis or praxis report, submit two publishable papers relevant to the industry, or take a comprehensive exam.
The university's 42-credit master of public administration program is accredited by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration. Students can specialize in public management, environmental policy and administration, or nonprofit management.
Ohio offers more than 60 undergraduate and graduate online programs in areas including engineering, health sciences, fine arts, communication, and business.
The university's Global Health Initiative offers a 38-credit master of global health that students can complete in just 18 months. Enrollees learn how to craft community-based solutions in resource-poor communities. The program prepares graduates for roles as clinicians, researchers, and health program developers.
The Russ College of Engineering and Technology offers fully online master's degrees in civil, electrical, and management engineering. The civil engineering program offers concentrations in construction, environmental, structural, and transportation engineering.
The Patton College of Education offers an online master of education with concentrations in curriculum and instruction, special education, reading, computer education and technology, and higher education.
Harding in Searcy, Arkansas, offers fully online master's programs in information systems, business administration, teaching, and kinesiology and sport administration. Students can also pursue primarily online programs in education, mental health and wellness, nursing, and theology.
The 30-credit master of science (MS) in information systems program from the Graduate School of Business offers concentrations in data analytics, information security and assurance, and project management.
Most required courses for the online MS in kinesiology and sport administration occur during the summer term. Many students work full time while pursuing the degree. Learners can culminate the 35-credit program with a thesis or an internship.
The online master of education program offers specializations in special education K-12 and reading with dyslexia endorsement. The 35-credit program requires a final comprehensive exam.
NMSU offers more than 70 online programs at the certificate, bachelor's, and master's levels. The online master of education program offers four concentrations: early childhood education; educational leadership and administration in higher education; educational learning technologies; and language, literacy, and culture.
NMSU's College of Health and Social Services offers a 36-credit master of science in nursing (MSN) with a concentration in nursing administration. Most enrollees graduate from the program in 2-2.5 years. The MSN is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
The College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences offers a master of science in family and consumer sciences with two concentrations. Students can pursue thesis or non-thesis tracks.
ECU in Ada, Oklahoma, offers online master's degrees in education, management, criminal justice, sports administration, and water resource policy and management. The 32-credit master's in education program offers four concentrations: educational leadership, library media, sports administration, and instructional design and technology.
The 30-credit master of arts in criminal justice administration program offers eight-week courses. Students can earn the degree in 1-2 years. ECU developed the master of management degree specifically for enrollees with a non-business undergraduate degree. The 30-credit curriculum includes coursework in managerial accounting, employment and labor law, leadership and organizational behavior, and strategic management.
The 30-credit master of science in water resource policy and management program covers topics such as environmental conflict management, hydrogeology, water quality and treatment, and watershed management.
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