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Earning a master's degree can lead to unique opportunities and upward mobility in your current position. It can also prepare you to switch fields or embark on an exciting professional journey — especially if you earn an in-demand master's degree. Many high-paying jobs require applicants to hold a master's degree, including a variety of roles in healthcare and IT.
Online master's programs can offer additional benefits, such as increased flexibility. For example, many top programs feature asynchronous classes that let you schedule coursework around your job or family obligations.
Are Online Master's Degrees Worth It?
A May 2023 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) found that U.S. workers with a master's degree earned a median salary of $1,661 per week in 2022 — about 16% more than professionals with only a bachelor's degree. This figure suggests earning a master's can increase your financial stability and help you save for the future.
Although earning a master's degree can be expensive, you can reduce your student debt burden in many ways. Some online master's programs offer departmental and institutional scholarships. You may also qualify for federal aid by submitting the FAFSA.
Additionally, use your online graduate program's academic and career resources to make the most of your time in school and prepare for a job hunt after graduation.
Did You Know...
- People with a master's degree earn about $230 more per week than those with just a bachelor's degree, according to the BLS.
- Master's degree-holders have lower unemployment rates than both bachelor's and associate degree-holders.
- A Georgetown University report found that the median lifetime earnings for master's degree-holders is $3.2 million — about $400,000 more than bachelor's degree-holders.
- The number of people with a master's degree more than doubled between 2000 and 2018, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Explore Our Featured Online Master's Programs
Best Accredited Online Master's Programs of 2024
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Accredited Online Master’s Programs 2024
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: $449
Credits to Graduate: 30
As a top institution of higher education, the University of Florida offers 100% online master's degrees that are on par with those the school offers on campus. The distance learning program includes 91 master's degrees in fields such as business administration and engineering.
The University of Florida has developed rigorous standards for its online classes and programs, which undergo regular updates. Prospective online students must meet all University of Florida admissions requirements.
#2 Best Accredited Online Master’s Programs 2024
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $586
Out-of-State | $1,602
Credits to Graduate: 30
Established in 1795, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers online degrees that give you a chance to further your education, regardless of your location, work experience, or background. As an online master's student, you can access faculty renowned for their excellence in teaching and research.
You may find this school suitable if you're interested in a 100% online master's in health, data science, social work, and more. As an online master's graduate, you also receive preparation for leadership and civic engagement in your field and community.
#3 Best Accredited Online Master’s Programs 2024
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: $332-$1,201
Credits to Graduate: 32
Consider joining students from more than 200 countries in pursuing your online master's from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. As a student at Illinois Online, you'll take the course from the same instructors who teach courses on campus.
The University of Illinois is distinguished for its long history of distance education. Long before online courses became common, the school has offered many online and other off-campus learning opportunities over the years.
#4 Best Accredited Online Master’s Programs 2024
Ohio State University
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $782
Out-of-State | $1,733
Credits to Graduate: 30
Whether you're making a career change or moving on after a bachelor's degree, your next step in online education may be with Ohio State University. Ohio State Online is top-ranked among Ohio public colleges and is 17th in having the country's most employable graduates.
You can earn your master's in one of 12 fields of study, including cybersecurity, healthcare, languages and cultures, and environmental science. The same accomplished faculty who teach traditional courses will also serve as instructors in your online classes.
#5 Best Accredited Online Master’s Programs 2024
New York University
New York, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: $2,229-$2,787
Credits to Graduate: 30
New York University offers several online and hybrid master's degrees. You can choose from more than 20 master's programs offered through NYU. All courses have assignments you can complete on your schedule, and you still have opportunities to interact with faculty and other students in real-time.
An online master's from NYU brings the same distinction and respect as any other degree from the university. You also get access to the same support services as on-campus students, such as career counseling, student clubs, and the chance to interact with industry leaders.
#6 Best Accredited Online Master’s Programs 2024
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Semester:
In-State | $31,420
Out-of-State | $34,562
Credits to Graduate: 36-54
An online master's from Johns Hopkins University can prepare you for an impactful career or further graduate study without having to step on campus. When enrolled in this Baltimore school, you can choose an online or hybrid program to earn your degree in academics, government, business, or other cutting-edge field. Johns Hopkins has a 94% graduation rate.
Your career-focused online study puts you in contact with students and faculty worldwide and prepares you for work in the public or private sector. You can choose from 13 industries or fields of study to prepare you for the next chapter in your career.
#7 Best Accredited Online Master’s Programs 2024
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $444
Out-of-State | $1,076
Credits to Graduate: 30
If you want an online degree from one of the top 25 schools in the U.S., consider Florida State University. This university's distance education program includes 25 master's degrees, with business administration, civil engineering, educational leadership, and sports coaching among the top-ranked.
At Florida State University, you can earn your master of science, arts, business administration, law, or other degree while taking fully online courses. You'll also have access to learning resources, counseling, and other student services through FSU's virtual campus.
#8 Best Accredited Online Master’s Programs 2024
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,862
Out-of-State | $3,391
Credits to Graduate: 24
As an online student at the University of Michigan, you have your choice of programs spanning the social sciences, business, technology, health, and other in-demand fields. You can choose an online program that is entirely remote or opt for a hybrid degree, which takes 1-2 years to complete.
In addition to your online courses, you have access to enriching experiences like Teach-Outs, which are in-depth learning events focusing on specific topics. Past Teach-Outs have covered free speech in sports and self-driving cars.
#9 Best Accredited Online Master’s Programs 2024
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $637
Out-of-State | $637
Credits to Graduate: 30
At Southern New Hampshire University, you can complete an online MBA in about one year. Students can choose from over 15 different concentrations, including accounting, entrepreneurship, international business, music business, public administration, and sports management. The program's curriculum was revised in 2021.
SNHU also offers accelerated bachelor's-to-master's programs in six fields — accounting, communication, finance, marketing, nursing, and sports management. Applicants will need at least a 3.0 GPA and a minimum of 90 undergraduate credits already completed.
#10 Best Accredited Online Master’s Programs 2024
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $551
Out-of-State | $551
Credits to Graduate: 36
San Diego State University offers students 10 online master's programs and two hybrid programs. SDSU's master of public administration can be completed on an accelerated timeline. The program is designed for professionals currently working in managerial positions and can be completed in just four semesters.
SDSU's online MPA students cover the curriculum taught by the same instructors as the on-campus program. Students are part of an online cohort and take asynchronous courses. Applicants must have a minimum 2.85 undergraduate GPA and submit a personal essay.
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Accredited Schools Online uses a custom ranking system to evaluate schools on their quality, affordability, and reputation.
We rank schools using factors like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition costs, financial aid, and program offerings. All our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation.
Learn more about how we create school rankings on our methodology page.
Popular Online Master's Degrees by Field
Although there are hundreds of options to choose from, many of the most popular online master's degrees can be found in the business, education, healthcare, and computer fields.
1. Business Administration
Online MBA programs may feature general business coursework or offer concentrations like data analytics or entrepreneurship. Some graduates go on to work as chief executive officers or chief financial officers. You can also put your business skills to work as a people manager. Management occupations report the highest pay of any category, with a median wage of over $116,000 per year (BLS, May 2023).
2. Education
Earning an online master's in education can help you transition into a teaching role. Concentrations may include secondary education, special education, or teacher leadership. You can add to your classroom strengths or move into administrative roles with specialized education leadership programs.
3. Healthcare
Healthcare managers and administrators make hospitals run smoothly and efficiently. You can choose from different master's concentrations, such as healthcare management and administration or health informatics.
4. Computers and Technology
Online master's programs in computer science can help you learn the skills necessary for a top-paying position, such as a computer and information research scientist. Additionally, computer and information systems managers earn a median annual salary of around $169,000 (BLS, May 2023). Graduates can also use their degrees to advance in software development, network architecture, or other in-demand fields.
How Much Does an Online Master's Degree Cost?
Broadly speaking, you can expect to spend anywhere from $13,000-$60,000 in tuition and fees on your master's degree.
Many factors affect how much your degree will cost, including:
- Program length — most online accredited master's programs last 1-2 years
- Whether you attend a public or private school
- Whether you qualify for in-state tuition
- The amount of financial aid you receive
You can save money on your online master's degree by filing the FAFSA and seeing whether you qualify for federal grants and loans, as well as for any institutional or programmatic scholarships.
Note that you may have to pay additional fees as an online student. Some online master's programs require you to pay technology fees that support online class delivery and IT services.
You'll also need to budget for a high-quality laptop (or look at colleges that offer free laptops to students) and consider any in-person requirements, like practicums and fieldwork.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Master's Degree?
You must hold a master's degree to qualify for a variety of jobs. For example, nurse practitioners and statisticians need a master's degree. In other fields, a master's degree can help you advance or get promoted.
The following table outlines some of the fastest-growing careers that require a master's degree.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) | Job Growth Rate (2022-2032) |
|---|---|---|
| Nurse Practitioners | $121,610 | 45% |
| Statisticians | $98,920 | 32% |
| Epidemiologists | $78,520 | 27% |
| Physician Assistants | $126,010 | 27% |
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | $136,620 | 23% |
| Speech-Language Pathologists | $84,140 | 19% |
| Genetic Counselors | $89,990 | 16% |
| Curators | $60,380 | 11% |
| Mental Health Counselors | $51,240 | 11% |
How to Choose an Online Master's Program: 6 Tips
Trying to narrow down your options? Start by identifying your goals, focusing on a field, and setting a budget. Once you know what you want from a program, you can compare online master's degrees to find the best fit for you.
- Identify Your Goals: Are you looking for a higher salary? Or do you want a master's degree so you can change careers? Avoid starting a master's program without clear direction. Take time to consider your strengths and interests.
- Choose a Field of Study: Online graduate schools offer master's degrees in hundreds of subjects. Narrow your interests to one area. If you're torn between two options, research career paths and job growth data to help you make an informed decision.
- Determine Your Budget: Graduate school can be expensive. Knowing your budget and financial aid options can help you make a decision and reduce out-of-pocket costs. Keep in mind that online graduate students at accredited universities typically qualify for federal financial aid.
- Compare Online Master's Programs: Consider factors like flexibility and delivery format. Would you rather take classes synchronously (which features live sessions) or asynchronously? Do you want a fully online program, or would you prefer a hybrid option with some in-person classes?
- Confirm Accreditation: Be sure to choose an accredited university. Attending an unaccredited school can impact your financial aid options and career prospects. You can confirm a school's accreditation status before applying. To do this, refer to the U.S. Department of Education's Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.
- Talk to Current Students, Faculty, and Alums: Ask students about their experiences in the program. And talk to faculty about advising and career support. Finally, you can ask graduates about the program's reputation on the job market. Use these conversations to find online master's programs that align with your needs and goals.
Q&A With Real Online Master's Students and Grads
Q: Why did you choose an online master's program?
"I chose to pursue my MBA online because I needed a way to balance grad school work with my day-to-day life. As a mom who also works full time in a demanding, busy job, I knew that getting out of the house and attending classes in person somewhere just wouldn't work for my schedule. Online courses allow me to fit my school work in when it makes sense for me."
— Cassie Viau, Director of Marketing, CoreMedical Group
"An online master's degree allowed me to continue my education while on active duty in the Air Force. … My school and program offered me the flexibility to get my master's in education while continuing to serve in my full active duty capacity, including on two deployments to Afghanistan."
— Gina Smith, Air Force Officer (name has been changed upon request to protect the interview participant's privacy)
"I chose this specific program because it had synchronous meetings weekly for each course. This allowed me to travel and complete my coursework and meetings from all over the world. I attended class while in a car in Ireland, at the beach in Spain, and in the middle of a refugee camp in Jordan!"
— Emma Cole, Nurse Practitioner
Q: What surprised you most about earning your master's degree online?
"I found it to be more work than I expected. … [The instructors] wanted to see that I was keeping up with the work and engaging with the material and with my online classmates, so I had to post a lot in the portal about my thoughts on the material and respond to all the responses my classmates posted."
— Marie Coughlin, Associate Director, The New York Public Library
"My program was physically located on the East Coast, but I was able to complete my clinical education in my local community. This allowed me to create connections locally for post-grad employment but also allowed me to learn how to navigate the specific challenges of clinical care in my area."
— Emma C.
"The thing that has surprised me most about earning my MBA online is how much I'm enjoying all the independent reading and research. I'm genuinely enjoying reading the books and articles that are assigned!"
— Cassie V.
Q: What advice would you give to students considering online master's programs?
"Compare schools, programs, and tuition assistance options. Choose a school that is accredited, and ask your employer about tuition assistance."
— Gina S.
"Never expect it to be a cakewalk because it's online. I am glad I had the experience of doing an online master's program because it really did hold me accountable to do the work. There were several undergraduate courses where I could reasonably skate by; not so in online grad school!"
— Marie C.
"Put together a schedule for yourself at the start of the semester that you can stick to and keep yourself accountable. Mapping out assignments and deadlines up front on the calendar makes it feel much more manageable when life starts to get busy."
— Cassie V.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master's Programs
Are online master's degrees credible?
Yes, online master's degrees from accredited schools are reputable. In fact, many online graduate programs use the same course materials and instructors as in-person programs. Online graduate students typically receive an identical degree as on-campus students. However, be sure to look for accredited colleges and universities — these schools meet certain academic standards outlined by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Can you get a master's degree without a bachelor's degree?
In general, you must earn a bachelor's degree before you can pursue a master's degree.
That said, some specialized programs, such as ADN-to-MSN pathways, admit applicants with just an associate degree. However, such programs often require additional undergraduate coursework or professional experience before you can get started on the graduate curriculum.
How long does it take to get a master's degree?
Most master's programs take about two years of full-time study. For example, online master's in social work programs typically feature two-year timelines.
However, some programs offer accelerated options, such as a one-year master's in education or an accelerated MBA. Because the length of online master's programs varies, check with individual programs before applying.
Can I get a master's degree entirely online?
Yes, you can earn certain master's degrees entirely online. Many programs require no in-person classes or campus visits, although some may include minimal on-campus experiences.
Some programs may incorporate hands-on components in your local area. For example, master's in nursing and master's in counseling programs include supervised clinical experience. Distance learners typically complete these requirements at a hospital or clinic near their homes.
Do employers look down upon online master's degrees?
Accredited online master's degrees typically have a strong reputation. These programs meet the same academic standards as in-person programs.
Many employers do not consider the delivery format of your degree when assessing you as a job candidate. In fact, your diploma likely will not list whether you took classes online or in person. As a result, you can benefit from earning a master's degree without taking in-person classes.
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Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Accredited Schools Online. Page last reviewed April 16, 2024.