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Updated October 12, 2022 · 6 Min Read
Earning a master's degree can increase your salary potential and lead to an exciting career. Find the best online master's programs for you.
Are you ready to discover your college program?
A master's degree can lead to more opportunities in today's competitive job market. Graduate degree-holders can also qualify for high-paying careers. According to Payscale data from Dec. 2021, master's degree-holders earn an average salary of $78,000 per year. Comparatively, Payscale reports that bachelor's degree-holders earn an average annual salary of $65,000.
Professionals with a master's degree often become leaders in their field. Master's degree-seekers learn about theories that guide practices and write a thesis. Virtual learning allows learners to earn an advanced degree conveniently. This guide covers the steps to earning an online master's degree.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Master's Degrees
How many years is a master's degree?
Most full-time students earn a master's degree in about two years. Part-time learners may need four years.
What's the difference between a bachelor's degree and a master's degree?
Bachelor's programs take longer than master's programs. Bachelor's curricula focus on entry-level information, while master's students gain a specialized view of their subject.
Can I get a master's degree in a field unrelated to my bachelor's degree?
Yes. Many master's programs accept students with a bachelor's degree in any subject. Learners pursuing a master's degree in a field unrelated to their undergraduate studies may need to take prerequisite courses.
Featured Online Masters Programs
Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.
Why Get a Master's Degree?
Master's degree-holders often earn more than people with a bachelor's degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professionals with a master's degree earn a median weekly income of about $1,545. Bachelor's degree-holders earn a median of $1,300 per week.
In addition to qualifying holders for higher salaries, a master's degree can lead to more job opportunities. Graduate students learn the reasoning and theories that guide practice in their field. They also conduct research to fill in industry knowledge gaps.
Busy students often pursue an online master's degree. The flexibility of online learning allows students to continue working while earning their degree.
How Much Does a Master's Degree Cost?
The exact cost of earning a master's degree depends on a few factors. For example, private institutions tend to charge more than state schools. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, graduate students paid an average of $19,792 in tuition and fees for the 2019-20 academic year. However, graduate students attending public institutions paid an average of $12,410 for the same academic year.
Online learners often pay discounted tuition rates and are exempt from paying campus fees. They may also save on commuting costs. The following section highlights additional fees for online students.
Additional Online Master's Student Fees
Many online programs charge a virtual classroom fee. Online students may need to pay for an upgraded video conferencing platform, such as Zoom.
Online students should also budget for books. Learners can save money by purchasing used books, renting materials, or choosing digital versions. Online students also need to purchase and maintain a quality computer, and they need high-speed internet access.
Careers in some fields, such as education and medicine, require certification or licensure. These credentials require additional fees.
Available Online Master's Degrees
Students earning an online master's degree build upon foundational industry knowledge. In addition to practical applications, degree-seekers explore theory and research. Students learn to think critically and make decisions based on best practices. Many master's programs feature lecture-based courses and research assignments. Learners also complete a thesis.
With many options to choose from, graduate students can find a master's degree to fit their career goals. The following list highlights a few noteworthy options. Program availability varies by school, so learners should research their prospective institution for more information.
Education Professionals in the education field can pursue a master of arts in teaching or a master of education. The latter highlights theory and research. Learners think critically about the state of education. A master of arts in teaching emphasizes practice. Students specialize in an area such as math or English.
The BLS projects employment for education professionals to increase 10% from 2020-2030. A master's in education qualifies graduates to become high-earning teachers, administrators, and college professors.
Registered nurses can pursue a master's degree to become nurse practitioners. Nurse practitioners diagnose and treat ailments, and they write prescriptions. The curriculum covers topics including medical ethics and pharmacology.Nursing
A master's degree in information technology explores new uses for technology. Degree-seekers explore computing processes and gain problem-solving skills. Graduates often become computer and information research scientists, who earn a median salary of $126,830 per year, according to BLS data.Information Technology
Best Online Master's Programs 2022
#1
Southern New Hampshire University
School Information | |
---|---|
Location | Manchester, New Hampshire |
Admission Rate | 88% |
Graduation Rate | 44% |
Instituation Type | Private |
Accreditation | Yes |
Percent Online Enrollment | 94% |
Fast Facts
School Type: Private
Concentrations Available: Accounting, applied economics, business analytics, communication, criminal justice, cybersecurity, data analytics, English, nursing, finance, history, higher education administration, healthcare, information technology, marketing, psychology, sports management
Accredited By: New England Commission of Higher Education
Do Distance Learners Pay In-State Tuition? N/A
Founded in 1963, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) enrolls over 135,000 students and offers more than 250 programs. Students can pursue one of over 100 master's degrees in fields like accounting, communication, and cybersecurity. Learners can complete their degree in 10 months.
SNHU charges $627 per credit. Most online master's degrees require 36 credits. Enrollees can transfer up to 12 graduate credits. SNHU offers five annual start dates. The school does not require the GMAT or GRE.
Available Scholarship: Finlay Family Scholarship
#2
Liberty University
School Information | |
---|---|
Location | Lynchburg, Virginia |
Admission Rate | 51% |
Graduation Rate | 47% |
Instituation Type | Private |
Accreditation | Yes |
Percent Online Enrollment | 92% |
Fast Facts
School Type: Private
Concentrations Available: Accounting, aeronautics, counseling, biomedical sciences, Bible, business administration, communication, criminal justice, cybersecurity, divinity, education, engineering, history, homeland security and disaster management, human biology, human performance, information systems and technology, international relations, juris master, marketing, medical science, music, nursing political science, psychology, public administration, public health, public policy, public safety, religion, sports, worship studies
Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Do Distance Learners Pay In-State Tuition? N/A
A Christian school in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers nearly 300 online master's degrees across many academic fields. Liberty has provided distance-education options since 1985. Learners can pursue master's degrees in fields like nursing, education, and political science. Students typically take classes in eight-week blocks. Most programs require 1.5-2 years to complete.
Liberty offers tuition discounts for qualifying military members, first responders, missionaries, and Southern Baptists from select states. Admission requirements vary by degree.
Available Scholarship: Middle America Scholarship
#3
Florida International University
School Information | |
---|---|
Location | Miami, Florida |
Admission Rate | 58% |
Graduation Rate | 63% |
Accreditation | Yes |
Percent Online Enrollment | 68% |
Fast Facts
School Type: Public
Concentrations Available: Accounting, African and African diaspora studies, computer engineering, construction management, criminal justice, curriculum and instruction, engineering management, finance, global affairs, healthcare, health informatics and analytics, health services administration, hospitality management, human resource management, international business, international real estate, logistics and supply chain management, logistics engineering, marketing, mass communication, music education,
public administration, public health, special education
Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Do Distance Learners Pay In-State Tuition? Yes
Florida International University (FIU) enrolls almost 54,000 students, giving it one of the nation's 10 largest student bodies. The school offers hundreds of majors, including 50 online graduate degrees in a variety of concentrations. Some options include economics, education, and engineering.
FIU also offers some programs in an executive or hybrid environment. Some programs may lead to professional licensure or certification. Online students learn from the same instructors who teach on-campus programs. FIU's online platform lets learners study in a flexible and interactive format.
Available Scholarship: Academic Merit Scholarship
#4
Ohio State University-Main Campus
School Information | |
---|---|
Location | Columbus, Ohio |
Admission Rate | 54% |
Graduation Rate | 86% |
Accreditation | Yes |
Percent Online Enrollment | 34% |
Fast Facts
School Type: Public
Concentrations Available: Plant health management; art education; bioethics; nursing; dental hygiene; engineering management; engineering leadership; healthcare innovation; learning technologies; public administration and leadership; public health; agricultural communication, education, and leadership; translational pharmacology; welding engineering; health-system pharmacy administration; social work; translational data analytics; business administration; business analytics
Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Do Distance Learners Pay In-State Tuition? No
The Ohio State University maintains one of the world's largest alumni networks, with more than 500,000 graduates all over the globe. Students can pursue their master's degrees online and learn from the same faculty who teach on campus.
Ohio State offers master's degrees in many fields, including art, business, and education. Online applicants follow the same admissions procedure as on-campus students. Requirements vary by program. Once enrolled, distance education learners can access technical support and other student services.
Available Scholarship: J. Parker and Kathryn Webb Dinius Fellowship
#5
Arizona State University-Skysong
School Information | |
---|---|
Location | Scottsdale, Arizona |
Admission Rate | 64% |
Graduation Rate | 4% |
Accreditation | Yes |
Percent Online Enrollment | 98% |
Fast Facts
School Type: Public
Concentrations Available: Architecture and construction, arts, business, communication and media, computing and mathematics, education and teaching, engineering and technology, entrepreneurship, health and wellness, humanities, interdisciplinary studies, law, justice and public service, science, social and behavioral sciences, sustainability, STEM
Accredited By: Higher Learning Commission
Do Distance Learners Pay In-State Tuition? No
Arizona State University-Skysong (ASU) offers over 100 online master's degrees in a variety of fields. Some options include forensic psychology, project management, and engineering. ASU offers enrollment options throughout the year.
ASU offers several opportunities for current undergraduate students to accelerate their education. Some fields let learners start studying for a master's degree concurrent with their bachelor's degree.
Specific timeframes, requirements, and admissions criteria vary by program. Applicants typically need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA in the final 60 credits.
Available Scholarship: Dr. Mark and Mrs. Judy Searle Graduate Scholarship
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FAQs
Which masters degree is most in demand 2022? ›
- Business administration. A Master of Business Administration, or MBA, is one of the most highly sought-after master's degrees globally and a stepping stone to C-suites jobs at big organisations. ...
- Healthcare administration. ...
- Computer science. ...
- Marketing.
Having a master's degree may be very good for your job prospects. In fact, there are some jobs that outright require them. If you're looking for work as a statistician, political scientist, biomedical engineer, or speech-language pathologist, a master's degree is often expected.
What is the easiest masters degree to get? ›- Masters of Fine Arts (MFA)
- Masters of Arts (MA)
- Masters in Mass Communication.
- Masters of Psychology.
- Masters of Finance.
- Masters of Human Resource Management (MHRM)
- Masters of Business Administration (MBA)
- Masters of Science (MSc)
Yes. Advanced degrees completed online have just the same value as if you were to attend class in person. Just look for one that's verified by one of the many accrediting agencies out there and backed up by U.S. News & World Report's highest level higher education rankings.
What is the most useful Masters degree to have? ›The most lucrative masters degrees tend to be those in engineering, especially engineering management and petroleum engineering. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, architectural and engineering managers earn a median annual salary of $152,350. Meanwhile petroleum engineers earn $130,850.
Which masters degree is most worth it? ›- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Master of Science in Information Technology.
- Master of Science in Engineering Management.
- Master of Science in Marketing.
- Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering.
- Master of Science in Finance.
So, can a Master's degree be completed in one year and still be worth the investment? Many universities and employers say “yes”. In fact, employers don't really care if you finish your Master's in 1 or 2 years, but want to know that you graduated and that you have the right skill-set for the job.
How much should you spend on a Masters degree? ›The cost of a Master's degree typically ranges between $30,000 and $120,000 depending on the school, the major, and the length of the program. The average cost of a Master's degree is $66,340. A Master's degree in Education typically costs $55,200. On average, the cost of a Master's degree in Arts is usually $72,800.
Is a Masters degree hard? ›It's not easy. And not everyone who attempts a Master's program will actually complete their degree. Below are some of the most common hurdles to success we've seen. Procrastinators will quickly find that the constant, high volume of reading, writing, and research means that falling behind is not an option.
What are the 2 most common master's degrees called? ›The two most common titles of master's degrees are the Master of Arts (MA/M.A./A.M) and Master of Science (MSc/M.Sc./M.S./S.M.) degrees, which normally consist of a mixture of research and taught material.
Which master's degree is most in demand in USA? ›
A Master of Business Administration degree, or MBA , is the most popular graduate degree available. It is valuable to those who work in a wide range of business management areas, including marketing, finance, accounting, supply chain management and sales.
What is the cheapest way to get a masters degree? ›The most affordable graduate schools are usually public institutions because they receive more federal funding. According to the NCES, the average master's degree from public colleges and universities cost $13,758 less than at private schools.
Do employers take online degrees seriously? ›Experts say employers are largely more interested in the person than the degree. They generally won't recognize immediately if that person's degree was obtained online or in person. Some schools are fully online while others offer online programs in addition to their traditional in-person options.
Are online degrees looked down upon? ›Online colleges are becoming more popular, but prospective students may still worry about their credibility. We're here to set the record straight: An online degree holds just as much weight as a traditional degree. In fact, data shows that most employers don't even differentiate between the two types of degrees.
Do employers care where you get your masters? ›It matters more when employers recruit directly from undergrad and grad school programs (Analyst or Associate roles), but less so for experienced hires with specific skills. If you have a Masters, great. No one really cares where you got it from as long as you can get the job done and continue to solve tough problems.
Which Master degree is best for future? ›- Marketing.
- Human resources.
- Business ethics.
- Business law.
- Accounting.
- Finance.
- Economics.
- Business policies.
- #10 Psychology. 87.9% of Psychology Masters graduates are in work or further study, according to government data. ...
- #8 Veterinary Sciences. ...
- #7 Education and Teaching. ...
- #6 Performing Arts. ...
- #2 Health and Social Care.
Master's degree
The earnings increase from the bachelor's level to the master's level is approximately 20%. Specifically, the median income for master's degree holders is $77,844 per year, and the unemployment rate is 2%.
It's entirely possible to earn two master's degrees and there are many reasons to do so. Two master's degrees can help you to pursue more than one academic field, qualify for a position with more responsibility and opportunities and help you to become a top candidate for higher paying jobs.
How do I choose a master's degree? ›- Ask yourself why.
- Conduct thorough research.
- Consider the course lengths and requirements.
- Do a cost vs. benefit analysis.
- Think about the learning environment.
What is the quickest degree to get? ›
What is the fastest and easiest degree to get? Often students focus on Business Administration, Psychology, or Education degrees for the fastest degrees; however, General Studies, English, and Communications may be considered some of the easiest, along with Psychology.
Does a masters give you a title? ›A Master's is the most popular postgraduate qualification. Master's degrees come with titles such as Master of Arts – MA, Master of Science – MSc, Master of Engineering – MEng, Master of Research – MRes and Master of Laws – LLM.
Is 2 years masters better than 1 year? ›Most one-year programmes either don't offer internships, or, if they do, they tend to be curtailed since there isn't enough time and that might be an opportunity you don't want to miss out on. A two-year Masters programme is what most US universities offer and it allows you to progress at a more breathable pace.
Does fafsa cover masters degree? ›The FAFSA covers financial aid for graduate school as well as for undergraduate school. Filing the FAFSA as a graduate student is similar to completing it as an undergraduate. You'll need tax returns, bank account information, and details on any investments.
Is doing a Masters worth it? ›The good news: Generally, getting a Masters is worth the money! While you may find it difficult to finance your studies, over time, the financial benefits will outweigh the initial costs. You will earn a higher salary and be much more flexible in your career.
Are Masters degrees worth it? ›Earning your master's degree has many advantages. It can lead to higher salaries, advanced career opportunities, higher-level subject knowledge, and a feeling of accomplishment. But embarking on a master's degree takes time and money.
How do you survive a masters degree? ›...
Acing Academic & Other Demands
- Know how you work. ...
- Read smarter, not harder. ...
- Focus less on grades and more on learning. ...
- Pick opportunities wisely. ...
- Consult others.
For most people, a research doctorate is more difficult than a masters degree. Many postgraduate scholars battle with the dissertation of around 150 pages required for the master's degree. The PhD requires an original thesis generating new knowledge on an academic topic.
Do you have to write a thesis for a Masters? ›A thesis is an academic paper completed near the end of a student's course of study for a master's degree program. Note that most master's degrees require the completion of a thesis for graduation.
Which Master degree is best for future? ›- Marketing.
- Human resources.
- Business ethics.
- Business law.
- Accounting.
- Finance.
- Economics.
- Business policies.
Which masters are in demand in USA? ›
The Master of Business Administration or MBA is one of the most coveted master's degrees in the world. Business Administration graduates are experts in a wide range of skills which include among many, the following; effective communication, time management, customer service, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Which masters degree is most in demand UK? ›- Business and Administration. ...
- Architecture, Building, and Planning. ...
- Nursing. ...
- Veterinary Science. ...
- Mathematics. ...
- Mass, Communication and Documentation. ...
- Law. ...
- Combined. If you are expert in more than one area, employers are more likely to notice you.
- Public Health. ...
- Finance. ...
- Human Resources Management. ...
- Mechanical Engineering. ...
- Pharmacy degree. ...
- Electrical Engineering. ...
- Psychology. ...
- International Relations.
Getting a master's degree is more than just earning a degree. It's going above and beyond what is expected in the pursuit of knowledge and career advancement. It is viewed by many as a respectable pursuit.
What should I do after Masters? ›- Lawyer. A great career prospect for MA graduates in the law. ...
- Manager. If you've always wished to become a leader, then you should pursue a career in management. ...
- Digital Marketer. ...
- Journalist. ...
- Data Scientist (PG Certification) ...
- Insurance Executive.
Social work, engineering, psychology, fine arts, business, teaching, law and architecture are the main professions that encourage professional degrees. For more information on each you should check out our guide to professional Masters degrees.
Which field is best for masters in USA? ›- Engineering.
- Business Administration Management.
- Computer science and Information technology.
- Medicine and Life sciences.
- Mathematics.
- Art and culture.
OCCUPATION | 2021 MEDIAN PAY |
---|---|
General internal medicine physicians | This wage is equal to or greater than $208,000 per year |
Family medicine physicians | This wage is equal to or greater than $208,000 per year |
Emergency medicine physicians | This wage is equal to or greater than $208,000 per year |
Both a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master of Science (MS) degree can offer a comprehensive graduate-level business education, however an MBA will provide an interdepartmental look at how businesses run, while an MS will provide a nuanced understanding of one particular area of business.
What's an easy degree that pays well? ›So, what are the best choices for easy associate degrees? Top picks include business, accounting, and criminal justice. These are all stable, growing fields that pay well, and studies show that most students who choose these majors are successful.
What are the most respected degrees? ›
Rank | Degree subject | % high meaning |
---|---|---|
1 | Petroleum Engineering | 72% |
2 | Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) | 44% |
3 | Applied Economics and Management | 69% |
4 | Operations Research | 48% |
- Pharmacology. For a lucrative career helping people, pharmacology is at the top of the list for in-demand degrees. ...
- Computer Science. ...
- Health Science. ...
- Information Technology. ...
- Engineering. ...
- Business Administration. ...
- Finance. ...
- Human Resources.
The tuition fees in Canada are the lowest compared to other English-speaking countries such as the UK and the USA. The 1-year master's program in Canada is in great demand among international students. These programs help students study and get promising job opportunities after completing their studies.
Is there any 1 year masters degree? ›Here are a few 1-year MBA programmes we recommend considering for your studies: Online MBA in International Business Management - BEBS. Online MBA in Finance – Arden University. Online MBA in Sustainability and Energy Transitions – Robert Gordon University.
What is the highest paying job in Canada 2022? ›- software developer/software engineer. ...
- financial controller. ...
- plant manager. ...
- IT operations manager. ...
- electrical engineer. ...
- construction project manager.