Completing Your Master’s Degree Online

When you earn a master’s degree online, you’re on your way toward meaningful career advancement. A master’s degree can enable you to develop advanced professional skills, gain a competitive edge in the job market, help you switch careers, and increase your earning potential. However, going back to school can prove difficult, especially for working adults. That’s where online degree programs come in. As an affordable, convenient method of earning higher-level credentials, online degree programs cater to those who want to reach the next level of their careers without disrupting their lives.

How do online master’s programs work?

In an online master’s program, students communicate, turn in assignments, read course materials, and attend class all through digital learning platforms. Like a traditional master’s program, each degree has certain requirements regarding credit hours, participation, and the caliber of your academic work. Taught by qualified instructors, all courses provide you with the opportunity to regularly interact with your peers.

Certain components differ, however. Courses can be offered in synchronous or asynchronous formats, meaning students must access courses in real-time or access courses whenever it’s convenient. Online master’s programs also use a range of communication methods, such as live chats, audio and video conferencing, message boards, email, attachments, virtual libraries, or virtual whiteboards. Because of this digital learning environment, students have different requirements as well. As an online learner, you will need access to high-speed internet, an up-to-date computer operating system, word processing software, speakers, and computer microphones.

There are other differences that go beyond the online format. Master’s programs may focus on academic advancement, professional advancement, or a combination of the two. Classes are smaller, and field experience is often required. At the master’s level, coursework is notably more advanced than it is for a bachelor’s degree.The topics you study will be more focused, with fewer opportunities to take elective classes and academically explore. Professors will require a higher quality of work, and more of that work will be rigorously evaluated by your peers.

What does it take to get a master’s degree online?

Although requirements vary by program when you earn a master’s degree online, certain generalities exist:

The first is the time frame. When you earn a master’s degree online, it usually takes one to three years. Completion times vary based on the requirements of your program and your individual pace of study. Full-time students will complete their studies sooner than part-time students. To qualify as a full-time student, you usually have to take at least 12 credit hours, or four classes per semester. A part-time student is one who takes anything less than 12 credits at a time.

Your length of study may depend on your transfer credits. While it’s difficult to apply large amount of academic credit to a master’s program, it can often be done with one or two courses, or up to six credits.

The second generality is on-ground experience. Because master’s degree programs are often designed to help you advance in a certain profession, real-world learning experiences are sometimes required. This type of training depends on your field of study. You might, for example, be required to work at a business internship, teach as a student teacher, or support mental health clients through treatment. When these experiences are part of your program, schools will require you to complete a certain number of hours before you are eligible for graduation.

What does it take to be a successful online student?

It takes a certain type of person to thrive in a digital academic environment. Online students tend to have the following characteristics:

: Online students know how to prioritize, meet deadlines, and follow through on assignments. Since you will most likely have commitments outside of your education, you need to understand how to get your assignments done in a timely fashion while balancing the rest of your life.
: When school is mostly self-directed, it takes a certain drive to succeed. When you earn your master’s degree online, you must be sure of your goals and prepared to do what it takes to meet them.
: It’s not enough to want to graduate. You need to be tangibly prepared to do so. Successful online students set schedules, check their assignments, and log in to their learning platforms even on days they don’t feel like it.
: The internet is digital education’s home base. Whether understanding how to create a word processing document, perform online research, or simply work your laptop speakers, you should be ready to embrace technology as an online student.
: Online degree programs rely heavily on the written word. Whether it’s asking a question about an assignment, connecting with your instructor, or contributing to class, you need to be comfortable writing clearly and explaining yourself well.

Why complete your master’s degree online?

When you earn a master’s degree online, the experience comes with a host of benefits before, during, and after you graduate.

Career advancement

Professionals who want to take their careers to the next level often need a master’s degree to do so. Master’s degrees can provide you with advanced training, new licensures, or the skills you need to enter management positions. They can also help you specialize in a certain area of interest, enhancing your credibility and expertise. Those with a master’s degree are more likely to enter into positions of management and leadership and are therefore more influential on outcomes within their organizations.

Increased earning potential

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, levels of education directly correspond with both income levels and rates of unemployment. Those who earn a master’s degree have significantly lower levels of unemployment as those with a bachelor’s degree and make more money per week.

Higher levels of income made possible with a master’s degree are also directly associated with certain professions. These include:

Business, finance, and sales
Education and educational administration
Health workers and related professions
Social workers
Nurses
STEM fields such as research, computer technology, engineering, and statistics
Librarians
Editors
Administrative support workers
Museum curators and archivists
Aircraft pilots

Affordability

Many choose online education because of its affordability. Online programs are often competitively priced. Additionally, the flexible scheduling provided by online programs allows working adults to continue to earn income while attending school. Academic programs offered in digital formats also lack many of the costs associated with on-campus degree programs such as facility costs and parking.

Financial aid is also sometimes available. If you’re considering applying for aid, it helps to start early and fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA. Doing so allows you to establish your eligibility for aid and connect you with grants, scholarships, and loans that can help you fund your education.

Convenience

Studying online is a flexible option for career advancement. It allows you to attend school on a schedule that works for you, from literally anywhere in the world. You can customize your pace of study. Online programs also often allow you to complete any hands-on requirements at your place of employment or locations close to home. All these factors ultimately allow you to juggle work and life while earning your degree.

An equal experience

Just because you take courses online doesn’t mean you’ll sacrifice the quality of your education. The curricula for online and on-campus courses are often the same. Online professors are just as knowledgeable about their subjects, and passionate about teaching on digital platforms. The institutions that offer online degrees hold students to the same academic standards. And you’ll still have ample opportunities to professionally network and build a meaningful community of peers.

Academic variety

Online graduate programs vary tremendously in their study areas. When you attend one, you’ll have numerous options from which to choose. Here are just a few:

Accounting
Business administration
Economics
Finance
Human resources
Management
Marketing
Nonprofit management
Public relations
Project management
Sports management

Criminology
Forensic science
Homeland security
Law enforcement administration

Adult education
Child development
Curriculum and instruction
Early childhood education
Educational leadership
Gifted and talented education
Instructional technology
Reading and literacy
Special education

Counseling
Healthcare administration
Health informatics
Human development and family studies
Human services
Nutrition
Occupational therapy
Psychology
Public administration
Public health
Social work

Computer information systems
Information systems security
Software engineering

History
International relations
Journalism
Ministry
Political science

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

Taking the next step

Anyone who wants to get ahead in their career should consider earning an online degree. Not only does it provide a quality education, it does so conveniently and affordably. When you graduate, you’ll be that much closer toward your goals and be ready to truly fulfill your potential as a working professional.

Innovation MBA LocationPhiladelphia, PA Accreditation(s)MSCHE, MSCHE Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$750: Jefferson Online’s Innovative Master of Business Administration program prepares you for the demands of the modern business world. The integrated, project-based curriculum develops dynamic problem solvers and entrepreneurial thinkers who are ready for career success, with a focus on real-world skills that you can apply immediately.
MA in Human Services LocationLakeland, FL Accreditation(s)SACSCOC Religious AffiliationPentecostal – Assemblies of God Cost Per Credit$495: Southeastern University’s online Master of Arts in Human Services degree provides students with a theoretical and experience-based understanding of the human services profession. This non-clinical program allows you to choose a specialization based on the types of organizations and people you would like to help. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to serve others in a variety of human services settings.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationReading, PA Accreditation(s)MSCHE, ACBSP Religious AffiliationCatholic-Franciscan Cost Per Credit$600.00: Alvernia University’s online MBA program allows you to hone your business skills so that you can advance your career and pursue a leadership role in for-profit and non-profit sectors. Through the program, you will gain real-world experience and explore philosophies of moral leadership for the community, workplace, society and global world. This pragmatic and ethics-driven program can be completed in as little as one year.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationAurora, IL Accreditation(s)HLC Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$565.00: Aurora University’s online MBA stresses critical business topics with courses in marketing, organizational behavior, leadership, finance, and accounting. You will prepare for advanced careers by expanding your problem-solving and team-building skills. Each course is taught by faculty members who have real-world experience.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationMishawaka, IN Accreditation(s)HLC Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$445.00: Bethel University’s online Master of Business Administration with leadership emphasis program is designed to prepare working professionals for advanced roles in the business world. Courses are taught by expert instructors and executive-level practitioners with years of experience in the field. Through a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes skill building in decision making, strategy, ethics, global business, and more, you will gain a strong background in both leadership and management practices that can be directly applied in the workplace.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationSt. Paul, MN Accreditation(s)HLC Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$625: With Concordia University, St. Paul’s online Master of Business Administration degree, you use cross-curriculum education activities to become an expert in your chosen industry during the length of the program. Knowledge and practical experience give you the confidence you need to succeed in their professional setting. The program explores business trends and events and how they affect the current business environment.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationSeward, NE Accreditation(s)HLC, IACBE Religious AffiliationLutheran Cost Per Credit$555: The Master of Business Administration degree program from Concordia University, Nebraska prepares ethical and effective business and management leaders to live out your calling in an increasingly complex, globalized society. The online program provides you with an advanced foundation of knowledge across the business disciplines and to make ethical decisions that will lead to your organization’s success. Choose from three certificate options: human resources management, leadership and managing teams through change, and project management.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationBuffalo, NY Accreditation(s)MSCHE, IACBE Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$700: D’Youville College’s online Master of Business Administration degree program transforms you into an effective decision maker and provides perspective on business from every angle, whether in human resources, marketing, financial management, or another related area. Faculty have real-world experience and link theory and practice, allowing you to apply what is learned immediately to actual business situations in your current career.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationTeaneck, NJ Accreditation(s)MSCHE, AACSB Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$925: The online Master of Business Administration at Fairleigh Dickinson University equips you with the skill set you need to become a leader in your profession. Designed to help you attain a position of industry leadership, the program uses a fully engaged learning process that prepares you to develop a career in nearly any field imaginable. Broaden your perspective, deepen your understanding of global opportunities and challenges, and enhance your ability to lead, manage, and communicate more effectively.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationCampbellsville, KY Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, IACBE Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$479: Campbellsville University’s online MBA prepares you for leadership roles as an executive or manager, helping companies prepare for and solve the complex business challenges of tomorrow. Graduates of this program are able to integrate Christian values into their business practice and understand how technology plays a key role in decision making, allowing them to succeed in their careers and move up the job ladder. Choose from seven concentrations: accounting, church management, healthcare management, human resources management, information technology, international business, and marketing.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationBangor, ME Accreditation(s)NECHE, IACBE Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$497.00: The online Master of Business Administration program from Husson University is designed to develop and strengthen your skills in analysis, decision-making and leadership. The coursework is a carefully constructed balance of advanced study in traditional business concentrations, such as accounting, finance, and marketing, combined with skills development in communication, leadership, and interpersonal relations — skill sets that are essential to effective performance in today’s business world.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationBristol, TN Accreditation(s)SACSCOC Religious AffiliationPresbyterian Cost Per Credit$605: King University’s online professional Master of Business Administration degree program guides you through methods of management, research, theoretical systems, quantitative analysis, skills development, and ethical practices within your own contemporary professional environment. The program blends an intensive case analysis with individual preparation and small group discussions and implements creative components to provide a transformational learning experience for personal and professional skill development.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationCanton, OH Accreditation(s)HLC, ACBSP Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$610: Malone University’s online Master of Business Administration program gives you the opportunity to advance in your career and life. Unique in its approach, the online MBA’s curriculum offers a course of study that combines intellectual knowledge, practical skills, and Christian values. Learn how to succeed in your career in a way that honors your faith.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationDavenport, IL Accreditation(s)HLC, ACBSP Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$675: Develop the skills you need to become a dynamic, socially conscious leader with St. Ambrose University’s online MBA program. Featuring small class sizes, the program teaches you topics such as managerial economics, marketing management, finance, and operations. The online program gives you the skills needed to move into a leadership role. With eight-week classes, the program has an accelerated format that allows you to earn your degree in as few as 14 months.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationLakeland, FL Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACBSP Religious AffiliationPentecostal – Assemblies of God Cost Per Credit$525: Through Southeastern University’s online MBA program, you will learn leadership skills that can apply to virtually any industry as you explore business strategy, human resources, and global social entrepreneurship. The program’s philosophy is rooted in a Christian worldview, blending relevant business experiences with moral and ethical teachings to prepare you for a successful career as a servant leader. Choose from four specializations: executive leadership, healthcare administration, sport management, and missional leadership.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationLivingston, AL Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACBSP Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$429: Advance your career and increase your earning potential with an online Master of Business Administration from the University of West Alabama. The program helps you improve your skills in a wide range of fundamental business topics and can be completed in just over one year. Specialize in one of eight areas: accounting, computer information systems, entrepreneurship and innovation, finance, general business, management, marketing, and sports management.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) LocationVirginia Beach, VA Accreditation(s)SACSCOC Religious AffiliationMethodist Cost Per Credit$499: The online Master of Business Administration program from Virginia Wesleyan University prepares you for a career in the global marketplace. Learn the principles of business, finance, marketing, and more, and become prepared for management-level jobs in your chosen field. The program focuses on hands-on practice and lively discussion of business principles and emphasizes flexibility so that you can fit your education into your already busy life.
Master of Business Administration (MBA): Management LocationNashua, NH Accreditation(s)NECHE, ACBSP Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$620: Rivier University’s online Master of Business Administration program provides you with a broad education in the traditional areas of business and core business processes, as well as in the cross-disciplinary skills of leadership, problem solving, and strategic management. Choose from four concentrations: marketing, IT management, management, and healthcare administration.
Master of Business Management (MBA) LocationPittsburgh, PA Accreditation(s)MSCHE, IACBE Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$675: With Point Park University’s online Master of Business Administration degree program, you can get the skills and credentials necessary to advance your career and increase your salary potential. The program gives you a deep understanding of critical business topics, including ethics, international finance, and business law.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) LocationMishawaka, IN Accreditation(s)HLC, ACEN Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$465: The online online MSN from Bethel University prepares registered nurses for career advancement as nurse leaders in administration and education roles. It emphasizes evidence-based practice and includes core coursework in information systems, statistical literacy, advanced theory and more. Through a rigorous curriculum focused on effective communication and decision-making, this program promotes excellence in holistic, patient-centered care.
Master of Social Work (MSW) LocationPensacola, FL Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CSWE Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$450: UWF’s clinically focused online MSW program provides the knowledge and skills to enter the workplace prepared for advanced social work practice. You will complete a specialized study of medical and behavioral healthcare in this program, which blends clinical internships with hands-on learning. Students who hold a bachelor’s degree in social work can fast-track their studies and complete our online MSW clinical curriculum, while those without previous social work experience* can gain the experience they need through foundational coursework that prepares them for the rigors of social work practice.
Master of Social Work (MSW) LocationCampbellsville, KY Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CSWE Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$559: The online MSW program from Campbellsville University prepares you for career advancement so that you can move out of entry-level positions in the field. With a curriculum rooted in ethical and Christian ideals, the program helps you develop an advanced understanding of the practical and theoretical knowledge necessary for becoming a leader in social work. Accredited by the CSWE, this program offers the opportunity to pursue a career in a wide range of areas, including therapy and counseling, community mental health, child protection, the criminal justice system, public advocacy and home health. You could also enter a career in the VA or while on active duty in the military as an addiction or substance abuse counselor.
Master of Social Work (MSW) LocationAurora, IL Accreditation(s)HLC Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$600: Develop a foundation in generalist clinical social work and specialized study with the online Master of Social Work from Aurora University. Through 1,050 hours of required field instruction, you’ll have the opportunity to apply theories to real-world situations. Customize your learning experience with optional specializations in faith-based social work, forensics, healthcare, leadership administration, and a professional educator licensure.
MS in Nursing (MSN) LocationSt. Paul, MN Accreditation(s)HLC, CCNE Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$499: The online Master of Science in Nursing program from Concordia University, St. Paul is designed for professional nurses who require the flexibility of attending classes on their schedule and are ready to advance their career. This program gives you the skills to lead teams in the complex and evolving healthcare system.
MS in Nursing (MSN) LocationBuffalo, NY Accreditation(s)MSCHE, CCNE Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$700: D’Youville College’s online Master of Science in Nursing can prepare you for management roles and train you to become a change agent in your field. Combining a solid theoretical base with extensive practical training, you’ll gain the comprehensive learning experience you need to successfully advance to the next phase of your career. Choose between two concentrations: clinical focus and management and leadership.
MS in Nursing (MSN) LocationTeaneck, NJ Accreditation(s)MSCHE, CCNE Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$825: The online Master of Science in Nursing program from Fairleigh Dickinson University offers two concentrations to suit your professional goals: family nurse practitioner and nursing education. Depending on your concentration, the program prepares you to diagnose and treat diverse patients or become an instructor in collegiate nursing programs. Through a state-of-the-art curriculum, you’ll acquire the training you need to effectively work with students, parents, and patients.
MS in Nursing (MSN) LocationBristol, TN Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CCNE Religious AffiliationPresbyterian Cost Per Credit$605.00: Advance your career through continued education with King University’s online Master of Science in Nursing program. Choose between two concentrations: nurse educator and administrator. Featuring a cohort model, the program allows you to earn your degree with the same group of peers. The program lets you collaborate on courses and projects and relay real-life work experiences into class discussions for a more interactive academic experience.
MS in Nursing (MSN) LocationNashua, NH Accreditation(s)NECHE, ACEN Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$630: Move into a leadership or education role with the ACEN-accredited online Master of Science in Nursing program from Rivier University. Choose from three specializations: family nurse practitioner, nursing education, and health systems management. Prepare to enhance patient care, improve the health outcomes and quality of life for others, and influence the next generation of nurses. The flexible, online format of the programs can be designed around professional and personal schedules.
MS in Nursing (MSN) LocationPensacola, FL Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, CCNE Religious Affiliation– Cost Per Credit$500: Develop the skills needed to care for patients of all ages and meet the needs of tomorrow’s nurses with UWF’s online Master of Science in Nursing program. Learn from experienced educators as you learn how to implement research- and evidence-based practices. This program helps you prepare for national exams, an academic career, or doctoral studies. Choose from three specializations: family nurse practitioner, nursing education, and nurse executive.
MS in Nursing (MSN) Education LocationSouth Euclid, OH Accreditation(s)HLC Religious AffiliationCatholic Cost Per Credit$590: Take your nursing career to the next level with Notre Dame College’s online Master of Science in Nursing Education. Designed for working nurses who wish to become instructors in the field, the program emphasizes leadership, ethics, and advocacy. You will gain hands-on experience that can be immediately applied to the real world through a required 120-hour practicum.
MS in Nursing (MSN) with FNP Track LocationCampbellsville, KY Accreditation(s)SACSCOC, ACEN Religious AffiliationChristian Cost Per Credit$559: Discover how to contribute to excellence in healthcare and provide quality, evidence-based and holistic primary care to diverse communities throughout the lifespan with Campbellsville University’s Master of Science in Nursing degree program with a track in family nursing practice. The program teaches you how to be an effective, independent practitioner and use evidence-based practice to promote health and manage care for patients and families across the lifespan as you gain 660 clinical hours of experience.