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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.
- Marketing.
- Human resources.
- Business ethics.
- Business law.
- Accounting.
- Finance.
- Economics.
- Business policies.
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Science in Nursing.
- Master of Engineering Management.
- Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering.
- Master of Science in Finance.
- Master of Arts in Political Science.
- Master of Science in Computer Science.
- 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)
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.
Which masters degree are highly paid? ›A master's degree is one of the most prestigious educational degrees available in the U.S., and can lead to a well-paying career in one of several industries. Some of the highest-paying master's degrees are in nursing and computer science, but psychologists, economists, and mathematicians rank highly too.
What is the hardest masters degree to get? ›Engineering: engineering is one of the hardest master's degree programs to study. As an engineer, you must have the capacity to understand a lot of information as quickly as possible. This is because there is so much information to be consumed in the field, no matter your branch of engineering.
Which Master course is best? ›- Marketing and International Business.
- Computer Science (Master's in Business Administration, Computer Science major)
- Economics (MBA)
- Marketing Management.
- Entrepreneurship.
- Strategy.
- Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists.
- Petroleum Engineering.
- Ask yourself why.
- Conduct thorough research.
- Consider the course lengths and requirements.
- Do a cost vs. benefit analysis.
- Think about the learning environment.
- #10 Education and Teaching. ...
- #9 Architecture, Building and Planning. ...
- #8 Computing. ...
- #7 Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmacy. ...
- #6 Mathematical Sciences. ...
- #5 Business and Management. ...
- #4 Engineering. ...
- #3 Medicine and Dentistry.
How much should a master's degree increase your salary? ›
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%.
- Artificial Intelligence.
- Bee The Change.
- Big Data.
- Blockchain Technology.
- Cloud Computing.
- Cyber Security.
- Data Science.
- Criminology.
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? ›- Business administration. A Master of Business Administration degree, or MBA , is the most popular graduate degree available. ...
- Health care administration. ...
- Engineering. ...
- Computer and information sciences. ...
- Nurse anesthesia. ...
- Human resources management. ...
- Physician assistant. ...
- Math.
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.
How hard is a Masters degree? ›In general, master's degree programs are more difficult than undergraduate programs. That's because they build on existing concepts and skills. When you're going for your bachelor's degree, you spend your time reviewing what other people have discovered.
Will a Masters help me get a job? ›In an increasingly competitive landscape for top jobs, getting a bachelor's degree might not be enough. A master's degree in your field of study can help expand your knowledge and experience, and improve your chances of getting promoted or hired when you make your next career move.
Does it matter where you get your Masters? ›Does where you get your master's matter? A school's reputation is important, but your ability to articulate and apply what you've learned will amplify the benefits of your degree more than name cache will.
Is 50 too old for grad school? ›In conclusion, no age is too old to get a graduate degree. There are so many advantages in waiting a while for further study that you may even choose to become a lifelong learner!
Are two masters degrees equivalent to a Phd? ›If you have one doctorate, you've achieved the doctoral level. A second (or higher) master's keeps you at the master's level. It can give you greater breadth, but that's not the same as greater depth. It's also not the same level of credential, especially for administrative positions, which often require a doctorate.
Is a Masters harder than a degree? ›
"There is no denying that a postgraduate course is harder than an undergraduate course. You will have to put in a lot more work than what you have previously. If you expect and prepare to put in a lot of work, you will find it easier when it comes to doing it, which will then be reflected in your results."
Is having a masters degree impressive? ›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.
Where can I study Masters for free? ›- Norway. Free for who: Everyone (EU, EEA and the rest of the world) ...
- Denmark. Free for who: EU, EEA and Switzerland. ...
- Finland. Free for who: EU, EEA and Switzerland. ...
- Sweden. Free for who: EU, EEA and Switzerland. ...
- Poland. Free for who: EU, EEA and Switzerland. ...
- Czech Republic.
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 M Com is better than MBA? ›The pay scale for M.Com graduates is high, and there is a demand for graduates in public and private sectors. On the other hand, completing an MBA enhances your skills, knowledge and network, which helps you explore better career opportunities and also helps you gain vast knowledge about starting your own business.
Is 1 year masters degree valid? ›As per University Grants Commission (Minimum Standards of Instruction for the Grant of the Master's Degree through Formal Education) Regulations, 2003, duration of Master's Degree in India is specified as 2 years and therefore one year Master's degree is not recognised in India.
How many types of master's degrees are there? ›Generally speaking, there are two main types of master's degrees: course-based (taught) and research-based.
How many masters degrees can you get? ›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.
Is it better to work and then do Masters? ›Reasons to do a Masters instead of working:
That's especially true in an economic downturn; first, it's easier to compete against applicants without a Masters, and second, those with only Bachelors might be among the first to be let go when times are tough. You'll earn more money with a Master's degree.
Graduates with a Masters degree appear to be more employable. Many also go on to earn more over their lifetime. Higher overall employment for postgraduates is obviously good news if you're considering a Masters degree. But it doesn't mean that a Masters will automatically boost your employability on its own.
What is the starting salary after MBA? ›
MBA Specialization | Average MBA Salary* |
---|---|
MBA Finance | Rs 2,00,000 to Rs 14,70,000 |
MBA Human Resource Management | Rs 4,50,000 to Rs 15,50,000 |
MBA Information Technology | Rs 10,000 to Rs 6,00,000 |
MBA Logistics Management | Rs 6,25,000 to Rs 8,50,000 |
In the United States, you can generally go directly to a PhD with only a bachelor's degree, as a master's program is included as part of the doctoral program. Elsewhere, you generally need to graduate from a research-intensive master's degree before continuing to the PhD.
Why do people do Masters? ›A Masters degree enhances your personal development
Postgraduate courses are more autonomous. Thus, Masters students have to put more personal effort in the learning process and engage on their own. This will develop new personal and professional skills, like independence, self-motivation, time management and more.
- Engineering. ...
- Business. ...
- Nursing. ...
- Hospitality. ...
- Education. ...
- Computer Science. ...
- Architecture. ...
- Pharmaceutical Sciences.
- Computer manager. Computer managers oversee a company's network and IT services, ensuring users can access required software and tools without interruption. ...
- Paralegal. ...
- Technical writer. ...
- Web developer. ...
- Financial manager. ...
- Medical assistant. ...
- Software developer. ...
- Market research analyst.
Data Science & Cloud Computing (Cloud computing goes hand in hand with data science, and cloud computing jobs range from architects and developers to data scientists) Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) Big Data Science. Digital Marketing & Strategy.
Is an MS better than an MA? ›A master's degree can be either a Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Science (MS) and provides in-depth learning beyond a bachelor's degree. The key difference between the two degrees is that the former focuses on arts and humanities while the latter is geared more toward scientific and technical fields.
What is half a master's degree called? ›Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)
A postgraduate diploma is a shorter postgraduate study option that includes challenging masters level content but without the dissertation or major project. A PGDip typically takes approximately 15 months to complete if you're studying part-time and is worth 120 academic credits.
Because you already have a bachelor's degree when you start a masters degree program. You already have the basics of whatever topic you are studying, now you are learning a specialty in that field. Masters programs are also a lot more intense than undergrad, so you learn more in less time.
Which Masters degree is most in demand in USA 2022? ›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.
What Master is best for 2022? ›
- Master in Business Administration. ...
- Master of Arts in Teaching. ...
- Master of User Experience Design. ...
- Master of Health Education and Promotion. ...
- Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. ...
- Master of Science in Clinical Epidemiology. ...
- Master of Computer Science.
1. Master of Education. At the master level, there are many types of specializations that are highly demanded by both public and private schools. Government agencies have a strong need for this degree, as well as private businesses that need knowledgeable educators of their products and services.
Do employers take online degrees seriously? ›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.
Why are online degrees not respected? ›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.
Which online degree is best? ›- Computer Science Degree. There is an ever-increasing demand for computer professionals and a wide range of options within the hi-tech industry. ...
- Business Administration Degree. ...
- Education. ...
- Psychology. ...
- Engineering. ...
- Nursing. ...
- Accounting. ...
- Marketing.
There are various reasons candidates may find it challenging to find a job in their field with a master's degree. While advanced education can help candidates deepen their knowledge and specialize their skills, earning an additional degree isn't always a direct pathway to securing a job.
Which masters degree is in high demand in UK? ›Among the most employable masters degree in UK is the one you earn in the field of Medicine and Dentistry. The demand for medical and dental professionals will never go away.
Which masters degree is most in demand in Canada? ›- Public Health. ...
- Finance. ...
- Human Resources Management. ...
- Mechanical Engineering. ...
- Pharmacy degree. ...
- Electrical Engineering. ...
- Psychology. ...
- International Relations.
Getting job in UK after masters is not very difficult if you have completed your education from the top institutes in subjects that are in high demand.
Does it matter where I get my Masters? ›Does where you get your master's matter? A school's reputation is important, but your ability to articulate and apply what you've learned will amplify the benefits of your degree more than name cache will.
Is it worth getting a Masters? ›
Nearly two-thirds (61%) of graduates with a master's degree will earn more than the median bachelor's degree holder, according to the CEW. It's even higher for doctoral (73%) and professional (83%) degree holders. Having a higher degree could also strengthen your ability to stay employed during economic downturns.
Can you do a Masters while working full time? ›Embarking on a postgraduate degree whilst working full time can be extremely challenging in terms of trying to balance work commitments and personal life, with the demands of academic studies. Full-time employment may appear to be a stumbling block but it does not have to preclude you from taking a postgraduate degree.
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% |
- Nursing. ...
- Hospitality. ...
- Education. ...
- Computer Science. ...
- Architecture. ...
- Pharmaceutical Sciences. ...
- Information Technology. ...
- Construction Management.
- Medicine & Dentistry. With a 99.4% employment rate within six months of graduating, medicine and dentistry programmes are the most employable in the UK. ...
- Veterinary Science. ...
- Allied Medicine Subjects. ...
- Education. ...
- Architecture. ...
- Law. ...
- Biological Sciences.
- Public Health Major. Canada remains a country of full possibilities for those who aspire to major in public health. ...
- Computer Science Major. ...
- Mechanical Engineering Major. ...
- Law Major. ...
- Psychology Major. ...
- Best Universities for Graduate Employment.
- software developer/software engineer. ...
- financial controller. ...
- plant manager. ...
- IT operations manager. ...
- electrical engineer. ...
- construction project manager.
...
Top Recruiters for Jobs after MS in Canada.
Region/City | Top Recruiters | CAD/yr |
---|---|---|
Toronto | Ryerson University | 155,000 |
Fasken martineau | 130,000 | |
Vancouver | Amazon | 185,000 |
A Graduate visa gives you permission to stay in the UK for at least 2 years after successfully completing a course in the UK.
Which job is more in demand in UK? ›Jobs | Average Salary (in £) Per Year | Increase in Demand |
---|---|---|
IT Engineer | 28,212 | 33.7% |
Mobile Developer | 34,971 | 28.2% |
Recruiting Assistant | 22,352 | 28.5% |
Assistant Principal | 51,541 | 29.5% |
Why international graduates are not getting jobs in UK 2022? ›
As of June 2022, only 7% of all international graduates have been hired by UK employers. Why are international graduates not getting jobs in the UK? The long and the short of it is that there are too many graduates for too few positions.